I started picture framing just before the second lockdown, looking for a change in direction, when people were trying to make the most out of the limitations in place at the time. An opportunity to reset for many. A pause in everyday life and the freedoms we had taken for granted. Swift Picture Frames began as a side hustle in October 2020.
Having lived in Forest Gate for the last 6 years, I found that the local area had many interesting people and amazing diversity. From the bright lights of Green Street to the entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses including Giovanna's and underneath the arches Burgess & Hall Wines, Fiore, Ramble Cafe and Tracks. Forest Gate and the surrounding area has a great art scene. Local artists with so much variety in their work and creativity.
The community spirit in Forest Gate is like no other place I have lived.
Home to Forest Gayte Pride; the regular Saturday market and the Forest Gate Festival, where I had my first stall recently. There are also exciting things on the horizon in the form of the East Bank in the Olympic Park, which will create lots of opportunities for local people serving as East London’s cultural hub.
I’ve framed for local artists, including work for a number of exhibitions in the last year. I’ve also had a fair amount of interesting commissions. From framing jigsaws, a 5ft Japanese vintage Hitchcock film poster to children’s artwork. The latter being a particular favourite! Helping to preserve the early artwork of a future generation of budding artists!
A picture frame should serve to complement the artwork. Frames made to any size, I can recommend moulding styles and mounts for customers who need a little inspiration. Working with natural FSC certified bare woods gives rich textures and a real depth when treated with natural products, like beeswax.
Bespoke picture frames offer a real quality feel to artworks of sentimentality or limited edition prints.
The frame should be sealed at the back with a mount or spacers to prevent dust entering and protecting the artwork from different atmospheric conditions such as condensation. Ultra violet light from the sun can also damage the artwork over time. People should consider protective glass where a frame in harsh lighting conditions, which will preserve the vibrancy of a print and reduce glare.
It is definitely worth investing in a bespoke frame if you have a special piece of artwork to brighten your walls. One that will last for years to come.
You can catch Adam with his Swift Picture Frames stall at The Forest's Forest Gate Homeware Fair down the Avenue Road Arches this Saturday 16th July.
For commissions and enquiries email adam@swiftpictureframes.co.uk and for further updates follow @swift_picture_frames
