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When I go to a photography exhibit, the craftsmanship of the
presentation is one of the first things I notice. Try as I might
to ignore it and focus on the image itself, a poor presentation
distracts my attention from the image. I can't help it. I think
that most viewers are not as critical of this aspect as I am,
at least not consciously, but I do believe that every work of
art benefits from a high level of craft in the presentation.
I've seen very good photographs in area exhibits which were
not well presented, ruining my perception of the image as a
whole. Everything is connected. I believe the quality of the
presentation has a major effect on the experience of the viewer.
These are my personal preferences and opinions. Your mileage
may vary:
I think b&w prints look best when dry mounted on a pure
white board. I prefer a 4-ply beveled window mat cut from the
same board, larger than the print. I like to see the actual
edge of the print; this seems to add depth and richness to the
presentation.
Pre-cut window mats are annoying; they're too symmetrical.
Prints should be mounted slightly above center on the board,
and the mat custom cut for that specific image. For an 8x10
print, I cut the window mat ½" larger than the print
on the top and sides, and ¾" larger on the bottom,
where I sign the mount board in a light pencil. The window mat
should be free of 'overcuts' and the beveled edges should be
perfectly straight.
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Mounted prints should have perfectly square corners and be
properly squared with the board. There should be no bubbles
or hairs under the print which show up when looked at from the
glare angle.
Use a simple frame. The black or silver Nielsen frames are
very easy, inexpensive and look great.
The entire assembly should be clean. I've stopped permanently
attaching window mats to the mount board for this reason; if
it gets a fingerprint I can just cut a new mat. Get all the
dust out from under the glass. Clean the front too. Make sure
it is hanging square on the wall.
For an exhibit, strive for a balance of consistency and variation.
Using the same type and color of frames for the whole show looks
nice; provides a unity.
When I hang a show, I am mindful that in effect I'm saying
"this is my best work so far". Craftsmanship in the
presentation is part of the package.
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