Find out about the pathway an original painting goes on, from creation to it's new-found home.
For an artist, each painting represents far more than paint on canvas. It’s a personal journey—an expression of vision, emotion, and countless hours of work. Whether it is an original abstract painting, large canvas painting, or bespoke painting, once the final stroke is applied, however, the painting’s adventure is just beginning. From the artist’s studio to its place in a gallery or exhibit, and finally, into the hands of a new owner, every step of the painting’s journey is meticulously planned. This journey involves fundamental processes like framing, packaging, and display, each step as crucial as the brushstrokes themselves.
At Abstract House, our art studio comprises our Founder, British artist Omar Obaid, who designs and crafts our exclusive collection. Our in-house Production and professional Framing team produce all of our frames and frame our artwork. Every frame is cut to order, joined and hand-finished to perfection, ready for artwork to be placed in the frame.
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The Artist’s Studio: Creation and Completion
Photo Credit: Omar's first studio in his West London home.
The painting’s journey begins, of course, in the artist’s studio. The studio is where inspiration comes to life—a place where initial sketches become final compositions and experimentation evolves into a body of new work. Each painting is a unique reflection of the artist’s inner world, their thoughts and ambitions of the moment, and creating an original painting can take weeks or even months. There is often a deep connection between the artist and the canvas during this stage, one that influences every aspect of the work. Every artists’ work and process is a unique fragment of their creative process.
Once the final touches are applied, the artist can focus on displaying and marketing the artwork ready for sale. While the creative journey may seem complete, the logistical steps of transforming that work into a gallery-ready piece are just beginning.
Omar's large original abstract painting pictured in a private client's residence.
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Selecting the Right Frame
Our Production team then places the artwork in the frame - this can happen in one of two ways depending on the style and finish of the painting.
For example, if the painting is painted on linen or canvas, it will need to be stretched onto a wooden frame, and subsequently framed in our sustainable wooden float frames. Floating frames give the effect that the painting is floating within the frame, adding a gallery quality effect to the piece and adding an expensive finish.
If the painting is on canvas board or fine art paper, the painting will be framed in our signature glass frames. The finished picture frame is prepared and the art is carefully mounted and placed inside the frame, with our framers considerately sealing the frame and adding the hanging fixtures, as every piece comes ready to hang.
Each painting is signed by the artist, Omar Obaid and comes with a signed Certificate Of Authenticity for investment purposes. If an international art collector is purchasing the artwork, this is crucial to prove it’s authenticity for customs and duties purposes during shipping, as many countries including the United States and Italy, France, Germany amongst others have special considerations and duty relief if the artwork is authentic and original, hand-painted and one-of-a-kind. This type of relief is not applicable on art prints, unless limited edition.
Framing plays a critical role in the presentation of a painting. It’s not just about protecting the piece but also enhancing its aesthetic appeal. A well-chosen frame can transform a painting, drawing the viewer’s eye and complementing the overall composition. On the other hand, a poorly chosen frame can detract from the work.
When deciding on the right frame, factors like the painting’s style, colours, and medium are taken into consideration. A modern painting may call for a sleek, minimalistic frame, while a classical portrait may demand something more ornate. The goal is to find a balance where the frame enhances the painting without overwhelming it. Here at Abstract House, bespoke framing is made simple. We have access to over 3,000 mouldings of different colours, shapes and styles. So, if you're looking for something particular to match your joinery or wall colours, just get in touch to request a bespoke frame.
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Varnishing and Protecting the Artwork
Before framing, another important step is varnishing the painting. A protective varnish not only seals the surface, enhancing the vibrancy of the colours, but it also provides a safeguard against dust, dirt, and UV light, which can cause fading over time.
Varnishing is an art in itself. The artist must choose between matte, satin, or glossy finishes, depending on the desired final effect. Gloss varnish brings out the richness of colours but as it can create unwanted reflections, we prefer a matte finish which has a more subtle appearance, making it easier to view from all angles.
Once the varnish has dried and the frame is selected, the painting is now ready for its next stage—the gallery.
- The Journey to the Gallery: Packaging and Transportation
Transporting artwork can be a delicate process, especially for large or fragile pieces. Proper packaging is essential to ensure that the painting arrives at the gallery in perfect condition.
The first step is wrapping the painting in acid-free paper or protective glassine to prevent any surface damage. This layer acts as a shield against dust and moisture, keeping the painting’s surface clean. Next, the painting is cushioned with bubble wrap or foam, ensuring that even if it is jostled during transit, it remains safe.
For particularly valuable or large works, custom-built wooden crates may be used for added protection. The artist or gallery may also enlist the services of an art transportation specialist to ensure safe delivery.
In this stage, attention to detail is crucial. A simple mishap—like excessive humidity or rough handling—can cause irreparable damage. Therefore, artists and galleries alike go to great lengths to ensure that the painting is meticulously packaged and transported.
- Displaying in the Gallery
Once the painting arrives at the gallery, it enters the public realm. Here, the work must stand on its own, captivating viewers and potential buyers. The gallery plays a pivotal role in setting the stage for the painting to shine.
Before an exhibition, the gallery staff carefully unpacks and inspects the artwork to ensure no damage occurred during transport. Lighting is meticulously arranged to highlight the painting’s features—too much light can create glare, while too little can obscure the finer details. Proper placement is also critical. Paintings are typically hung at eye level, with enough space between them to allow each piece to be appreciated individually.
The gallery’s atmosphere is an extension of the painting’s narrative. Whether the exhibition is minimalist, designed to let the paintings speak for themselves, or more elaborate with themed decor, the aim is always to enhance the viewer’s connection to the artwork.
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Connecting with the Buyer
For most artists, seeing their painting in a gallery is a moment of pride and accomplishment. But the ultimate goal, for both the artist and the gallery, is to connect that work with its future owner.
You can easily visit our West London showroom to browse our full collection of original art in person. If you're based further afield, our expert team of art consultants are available to send additional videos or photos, or arrange a complimentary video consultation with you to show you more details of the Potential buyers often have the opportunity to view the work in person, engage with gallery staff, and even meet the artist during exhibition openings or events. This connection between artist, painting, and buyer is a key part of the process. It’s not just about selling a piece; it’s about finding the right home for the artwork, where it will be appreciated and cherished.
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Packaging for the Buyer: Ensuring Safe Delivery
Once a painting has found its new owner, the final leg of its journey begins: delivery to the buyer. Whether the piece will be displayed in a private home or a corporate office, the gallery takes great care to ensure the painting reaches its destination safely.
Just like its journey to the gallery, packaging is critical here. The artwork is again wrapped in protective layers, including acid-free paper and padding, to prevent damage during transport. For international buyers, galleries often work with specialised shipping companies to navigate customs, insurance, and regulations.
If the buyer is local, the painting may be delivered directly, with the option for professional installation. For distant buyers, the gallery ensures that all logistics are handled seamlessly, from shipping arrangements to final delivery.
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A New Beginning: The Painting’s New Home
After the painting is safely delivered and unwrapped, it takes on a new life in its new environment. It becomes part of the owner’s personal space, where it will continue to inspire and evoke emotion for years to come.
For the artist, knowing their work has found a home where it will be appreciated is the final reward. From the first brushstroke in the studio to its installation in a new setting, the journey of a painting is one of craftsmanship, care, and connection.
Every step, from creation to delivery, is part of the story that brings a piece of art into the world, where it can be admired and cherished for generations.
