At Frame Today, we see an incredible range of artwork come through our stores - from contemporary prints to family heirlooms to historically significant pieces deserving the utmost care. One project we recently completed at Tuggerah framing store was a perfect example of how thoughtful conservation and professional custom framing can completely transform and preserve a valuable artwork for generations to come.
A long‑time customer brought in a newly acquired painting: An English Country House by renowned Australian landscape artist Arthur Streeton. With its delicate brushwork, atmospheric tones and unmistakable Streeton charm, it was immediately clear that this piece held both artistic and sentimental value. However, like many older artworks, it had begun to show signs of ageing.
Identifying and Treating Foxing on the Artwork
The painting arrived in its original frame and matboard, both of which displayed visible foxing - the small brownish spots caused by age, humidity or mould. Once we opened the frame, we discovered the foxing extended to the artwork itself.
Because preserving artwork is central to our framing philosophy, we contacted the customer to discuss professional conservation options. With approval, we arranged for the artwork to be sent to conservation specialist Duncan Harty at Morpeth Conservation Studio. Duncan is a trusted expert whose meticulous restoration work regularly brings new life to valuable and historic pieces.
After treatment, the painting returned looking significantly cleaner, brighter and free from the distracting marks that once hid the detail of the composition. Restoration is often essential for protecting both the aesthetic and long‑term integrity of fine art, and in this case, the results were exceptional.
Designing a Frame That Complements Streeton’s Work
Once restoration was complete, it was time to create a frame that would both protect the artwork and enhance its visual impact. Arthur Streeton’s landscapes are known for their soft, luminous colours and atmospheric depth, so the framing needed to enhance, not overwhelm, these qualities.
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My team at Tuggerah crafted a design that balances elegance with subtlety:
- Antique-Silver Frame
We selected a soft antique Marais Silver frame with a gently textured finish. Its muted metallic tones pair beautifully with the artwork’s skies and architectural details, adding sophistication without drawing focus away from the painting. - Cream Matboard with Inner Fillet
A classic cream mat creates breathing room and highlights the watercolour tones, allowing the artwork to sit comfortably within the frame.
We added a thin Matilla Silver fillet - a refined detail that draws the eye inward and adds a sense of depth, perfect for enhancing traditional artworks. - Ultra Vue for Ultimate Protection
Because this piece is both precious and historically significant, we recommended Tru Vue UltraVue glass®, which offers:
- 70% UV protection
- Ultra‑low reflection
- Crystal‑clear colour and visibility
This ensures the artwork remains protected from fading while presenting it in the best possible clarity.
Preserving Art for the Future
This project perfectly demonstrates why custom picture framing and art conservation matter. A piece like Streeton’s An English Country House isn’t just décor, it’s a fragment of Australia’s cultural heritage.
At Frame Today, we believe every artwork, whether newly created or over a century old, deserves to be treated with respect. From restoration recommendations to premium materials and expert craftsmanship, our team works to ensure every customer’s piece is preserved beautifully and safely.
Why Custom Framing Matters for Fine Art
If you’re considering reframing a valuable artwork, especially pieces on paper such as watercolours, etchings or sketches, professional framing is essential. Benefits include:
- Protection against deterioration
- UV defence to prevent fading
- Acid‑free materials that protect artwork long‑term
- Enhanced presentation and visual impact
- Increased longevity to retain and even maximise the value of the artwork.
Whether you have a treasured family piece, an auction acquisition or a valuable collectible, all Frame Today stores can recommend the right options for your budget and your home.
Visit Frame Today for Expert Custom Framing
The completed Streeton project now looks refined, elegant and ready to be enjoyed for many more years. We’re grateful to our customer for trusting us with such an important artwork, and proud of the exceptional craftsmanship from our framers here at Tuggerah.
If you have an artwork needing restoration, reframing or museum‑grade protection, visit your nearest Frame Today store. Our experienced framers are here to help you protect your most cherished art.
