The options are nearly endless when creating a custom frame. Whether it’s a diploma or certificate, a photograph or art print, or a treasured keepsake, we take pride in crafting elegant frames that help our clients preserve and showcase what matters most to them. And like any creative process, knowing the materials is key. We’ve put together a few key terms to know for your next framing appointment.
Floater Frames
Carol O’Malia’s I Didn’t Sleep A Wink and Maura Segal’s Crayon Color series both feature floater frames, seen here in the Baltimore gallery.
If you get the chance to explore any of our galleries, you may notice that many of our works on canvas have been finished with “floater frames.” These frames provide a sleek, minimalist polish that doesn’t distract from the artwork itself. A thin band of “gutter space” separates the canvas from the frame’s moulding while still protecting the canvas from warping over time.
Corner closeup of a white floater frame on Hunt Slonem’s Abraham Lincoln, oil on canvas, 52 x 52 inches framed
Cap frames may be used for nearly all framing projects, and are required for anything that needs “glazing” (glass or acrylic). Read more about glazing here.
While we have access to thousands of cap frames, the beauty of custom framing is the ability to “stack” frames and fillets to create something that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
For this traditional landscape, we added a textured, brushed gold frame atop a wide weathered wood frame for an effortlessly bespoke finish.
Dennis Sheehan’s Inlet at Dusk, oil on canvas, 27 x 27 inches framed
Mat boards serve many purposes in framing. Most commonly, they surround the artwork to create visual breathing room. Mats can be placed above or below the piece, and for a more creative approach, they can be stacked, beveled, or paired with a filet as an added design element.
We chose a white mat to frame this stunning print. The mat is raised slightly away from the artwork, giving it a greater sense of presence and importance. The crisp white mat also creates clean negative space, allowing the artwork to stand out. Made from layered paper, mat boards can also be wrapped in fabric—such as silk, satin, velvet, or textured cotton—to subtly elevate the presentation even further.
Meredith Pardue’s Fragments [Leaves XV], Mixed media on paper, 47 x 33 inches framed
For this textured work on paper, the gallery selected a white linen mat to sit beneath the artwork, allowing the paper’s deckled edge a moment in the spotlight. Shadowbox sides add depth and a sense of grandeur to the simple white frame.
Now that Hunt Slonem: The Art of Delight has wrapped up at all three galleries, we wanted to spend a little time with one of Slonem’s favorite subjects. Along with his bunnies and presidential portraits, his aviary of painted birds is a constant and compelling presence in his work.
As his father’s Navy career required the family to move frequently, Hunt Slonem spent his childhood and formative years living all over the country. Notably, Slonem credits his early memories in Hawaii for his fascination with tropical birds. Still enamored with vibrant plumage and a reverence for nature, the painter’s studio now features over 60 pet birds, often in ornamental cages that appeal to Slonem’s maximalist sensibilities.
Hunt Slonem, Hummingbirds, oil on wood, 24 x 18.5 inches
Hunt Slonem, Peace Plan, oil on canvas, 25 x 59 inches
As one of his primary artistic focuses, the birds inspire and delight Hunt to create flocks of his own. Countless finches, cockatoos, parrots, owls, and lories nest inside his antique found frames, seemingly ready to take flight.
Slonem and pet parrot, Perky, pictured with samples from his wallpaper collection with Lee Jofa
Hunt Slonem, Hyacinth Macaw Picul, oil on canvas, 40 x 40 inches
Thick, thoughtful brushstrokes evoke painterly feathers, while his distinctive hatch marks resemble the bars of a cage. These lines create both visual texture and conceptual tension. Rather than offering a voyeuristic view into a cage, they suggest the bird’s-eye perspective looking outward. The artist applies this technique across all of his subjects—butterflies, portraits, and landscapes alike—each marked by deep vertical lines.
Hunt Slonem, Owls Trail, oil on canvas, 30 x 30 inches
As 2025 draws to a close, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the best moments of the year. From focused exhibitions to trade events, our calendar has been jam-packed with exciting moments. After more than 40 years of being in business, we are so grateful that we can continue to connect collectors with art and artists, we couldn’t have done it without your support!
Spring Fever
We said goodbye to winter with our Spring Fever exhibition. All three galleries featured pieces that capture the energy, vibrancy, and spontaneity of the season. Our opening reception invited guests to celebrate the renewal of creativity, the joy of longer days, and the uninhibited expression that comes with spring’s arrival.
This exhibition offered a glimpse into the many ways artists use the camera to interpret the world around them. Bringing together a dynamic range of photographic styles and subjects, Through the Lens celebrated the versatility of the medium and the powerful stories it can tell. Striking figurative compositions, ethereal landscapes, intimate wildlife portraits, inventive photomontages, and even collage-based works that blur the boundaries between photography and mixed media all invited viewers to explore both the literal and the imagined.
Exclusive to our design partners and registered trade members, the gallery hosted top vendors in fabric, furniture, lighting, wall coverings, and more. Attendees enjoyed light bites and bubbly at our Baltimore location while networking and browsing the Through the Lens exhibit.
In September we announced our new partnership with painter Rebecca Jack. Her work blends abstraction, figurative drawing, and portraiture into a unique, expressive style.
“I see these figures three-dimensionally in my head. There are lots of layers of paint, so I build and remove layers. Mistakes are my biggest ally—they bring beauty and history into the piece.”
This exhibition featured the work of four artists whose practices reveal the layers — literal and metaphorical — that shape perception: Joseph Adolphe, Carly Allen Martin, Paul Balmer, and Meredith Pardue. From lyrical abstractions and organic forms to painterly narratives and etched cityscapes, Beyond the Surface seeks to move past first impressions and uncover the subtle energies, textures, and emotional depth within each work. All four artists joined us in the galleries for the opening reception on October 22 and 23 to meet with our wonderful collectors and trade partners.
We end the year on a high note with our exhibition of Hunt Slonem’s meditations on beauty and abundance. Slonem visited each of our three galleries to meet with collectors and sign books. Celebrating the exuberance and irresistible charm of Slonem’s work, the galleries featured his most familiar motifs: iconic bunnies, vibrant butterflies, whimsical birds, textured landscapes, and monochromatic portraits of historical figures. The Art of Delight will remain on view through December 31, 2025.
At Merritt Gallery, we’re always curious about what (and who) inspires the artists we work with. We asked a few of them to share their favorite artists — from legendary figures who first sparked their love of art to the contemporary creators who keep them inspired today. Read on for a fun look at how creative influences connect across time and style.
“My two favorite artists of all time are Richard Avedon and Norman Rockwell. Both have been influential in my work in different regards. I love Avedon’s elegant simplicity and soulful portrayal of blue-collar workers to celebrities and business tycoons. And I adore Norman Rockwell’s idealistic portrayal of Americana, his composition, color and humor.”
Randal Ford, Upside Down Sloth, Photograph on aluminum, 40 x 40 inches
“Gerhard Richter is a strong favorite. And from my home country, V.S. Gaitonde. Both do inspire my work and I LOVE their work! Also since I was a little girl – Claude Monet.”
Shivani Dugar, Twilight Tides, Oil on canvas, 48 x 60 inches
Anselm Kiefer, Nachricht vom Fall Trojas (News of the Fall of Troy). Photo by Paul Gallo, 2009. Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
“Anselm Kiefer is an all-time favorite of mine. His paintings feel bigger than life. He creates another world in his pieces that feel like one could walk right into. It’s an immersive experience. His paintings are layered with texture and materials not normally found in paintings.”
Liz Barber, First Spring Bloom, Mixed media on canvas, 48 x 72 inches
Everyone loves a good before-and-after story. We have recently helped several clients pull off powerful transformations through custom framing. Read on to learn more about how each of these projects unfolded…
Updating a Powerhouse
This client hoped to freshen up a treasured sports photo for a new space. While we love the purple mat (Go Ravens!), it didn’t quite fit the more modern furnishings the piece would soon be accompanying.
Before:
The original piece brought in by the client with an elaborately stacked mat and decorative frame
A crisp white 8-ply mat allows the photo to be the focal point, while a simple silver cap frame completes the modern finish. Our talented framers were able to carefully remove the plaque for re-use, centering it beneath the photo as the shadowbox sides add a sense of depth and gravitas.
After:
We couldn’t resist snapping a final pic in the gallery when this came back from the frame shop!
Uniting Three Generations & Beyond
We so enjoy the unique projects that our clients bring in, and this was no exception. A prominent chef recently brought in several knives with an intense family history going back to the late Eighteenth-century. Fascinating in their own right, our team was able to select framing that highlights and preserves such rich history.
Before:
A flatlay of the knives’ intended design with the chosen mat, rustic gold filet, and industrial cap frame
The selected frame echoes the rivets in the knives’ handles, while the deep orange silk-wrapped mat provides a warm, lush backdrop for the knives. To mount the knives safely, the frame shop utilized hidden magnets to “float” the knives for an effective finish. Here you can see the chef’s ancestors’ butcher’s knives are able to shine at the end of the kitchen line, a daily reminder of her roots and heritage.
After:
The knives’ new home, on display for kitchen staff and eagle-eyed patrons
Celebrating a Well-Earned Win
Our Chef client, none other than Chef Cindy Wolf herself, also brought in an award that she and her team won! Her restaurant, Charleston, is this year’s recipient of the James Beard award for Outstanding Wine Program. While we are very familiar with Wolf’s talent and incredible work, this was our first James Beard award to frame and we couldn’t be more proud of Chef.
Before:
A preview with the final selection of framing materials
No need to overcomplicate greatness here — we wanted the award to speak for itself. The medal is mounted atop a white silk hand-wrapped mat for a clean finish. A simple silver cap frame echoes the brushed silver finish of the award, while a custom plaque declares the restaurant’s victorious new title.
After:
Framed medal on display, in its new home at Charleston with pride of place near the front entrance
Summer is officially here and so is vacation season. As we dream of far-off destinations, we caught up with a few of our artists to hear about their ideal holiday and the inspiration they’re chasing.
“The beaches of Fiji or Thailand would be heaven to me. I grew up in Marblehead, Massachusetts, right on the ocean. Being so close to the ocean all my life makes a real impact. It is my biggest inspiration source. Everything about it is part of my memory, the sound of it, the movement of it. Waves create stunning visual imagery. My happy place is definitely in the waves.”
Liz Barber, Spring Wave 3, mixed media on canvas, 36 x 72 inches
“London — I love the city. Great place to walk and enjoy the architecture, museums, theater… the food not as much. To enjoy a good meal: any city in north Spain: San Sebastián, Bilbao, Oviedo, Gijón, A Coruña, etc…”
Raul De La Torre, Poemes CXXX, mixed media on linen, 40 x 60 inches
“My dream destination right now is the Maldives…I find it compelling because it is secluded, the water is super clear, the color is like jewels. The bluest sky ever and all the vegetation that is in every shade of green you can imagine. The flowers you probably have never seen before in those magical colors. I dream of this right now because I need new inspiration, rest, water (swimming), undisturbed sleep, and all kinds of fresh fish. A very simple existence for just a while.”
Rose Masterpol, Virtuoso, acrylic on canvas, 48 x 80 inches
“I’ve been very fortunate to travel to nearly every major dream destination on my list. A number of years ago, I lived briefly in Tokyo, and I’ve always wanted to go back. For sheer inspiration for someone who loves cities as much as I do, there is no equivalent. I also love the culture and ease of travel in Japan.”
Ben Schwab, From Beginning to End, oil on canvas, 36 x 60 inches
Established by a working mother over 40 years ago, our galleries enjoy a long tradition of strong women in the arts. Three of our team members have recently been welcomed into the halls of motherhood, raising the next generation of art lovers!
Laura
Laura poses proudly with a Matt Devine wall sculpture, This Way #7
Laura, Art Consultant in Chevy Chase, welcomed her sweet boy, Brady, in March of last year. As a family, The Pigotts take advantage of the gardens, exhibitions and opportunities to teach through art every chance they get.
Brady admires Lorenzo Quinn’s What Goes Around Comes Around sculpture, paired here with Eve Arnold’s Press Meeting at the Ritz photograph.
“Brady is active, curious, drawn to bright colors, loves his stacking rings and reflective surfaces. The Lorenzo Quinn sculpture, What Goes Around Comes Around, was immediately eye catching and familiar on a recent visit to the gallery.”
Brittany recently returned from her maternity leave with Helen, who was born this past December. Returning to work is a difficult milestone for any new mom, but she is glad to be back in the gallery as Assistant Gallery Director, with a fresh perspective on life and art.
Helen’s first visit to the Baltimore gallery (David Burdeny’s Nets Study 8 hanging behind her and mom)
“Working with so many talented mothers throughout my pregnancy and these first six months has been such a blessing—I learn something new every day! There are so many women I look up to here, and their experience has certainly had a positive impact my daughter’s childhood and future. Helen’s first gallery experience was at RFA, and we will continue to soak up every opportunity to expose her to art, creativity, and beauty.”
Chelsea
Baltimore Art Consultant Chelsea is due this August! She says, “Since childhood I’ve been intrigued and delighted with art. In Kindergarten my teacher showed us Monet’s water lily paintings and I’ve adored him and have been inspired ever since! I absolutely love my career as an art consultant and can’t wait to pass on the knowledge and art exposure to our little boy.”
“Seven months pregnant at the gallery thus far, and since I’ve started showing coworkers and clients alike have had only the kindest of things to say and wonderful advice. Not to mention everyone has been so understanding and supportive that I can’t lift art the way I normally could—precious cargo on board—lots of helping hands ready whenever needed and I am truly grateful! It was also fun to hear guesses from coworkers on whether it’d be a boy or girl. Most got it right! Definitely some great intuition around here. My husband and I are so excited and can’t wait to share our new bundle of joy with the gallery!”
In an age where nearly everyone has a camera in their pocket, the art of photography is more accessible than ever—but that doesn’t mean it’s any less powerful or complex. Since its invention in the late 1830s, photography has evolved into a dynamic and diverse medium, one that artists continue to push in new and unexpected directions. From precise technical execution to fresh ideas and creative approaches, today’s photographers use the camera not just to document the world, but to interpret it.
Read on to learn more about some of the photographers we represent and how they’ve explored photography as an artistic medium.
Portraiture With a Wild Side
Randal Ford, Upside Down Sloth, photograph on aluminum (Edition 4/5), 48 x 48 inches
Although Randal Ford’s portraiture studio may seem typical, with its lighting equipment and array of backdrops, his subjects are anything but ordinary. From lions to penguins to chimpanzees, Ford has hosted quite the menagerie in his creative space over the years. These timeless portraits are taken against minimalist, neutral backgrounds that allow one to further appreciate the unique features and personalities of each animal.
Xan Padron, Jardim Botánico, Rio de Janeiro, photograph on aluminum (Edition 1/10), 47 x 60 inches
Armed with his camera and a remote shutter, Xan Padron aims to capture the variety of life and human activity that can happen in one place. He splices together dozens of photos to craft a new composition, often abstracting architectural elements through repetition. In his Time Lapse series, Padron has shared glimpses into cities from around the globe, creating unique portraits of a place and its people.
David Burdeny, Odette, Paris, France, photograph on aluminum (Edition 2/10), 55 x 44 inches
Through his international travels, David Burdeny translates his intimate appreciation for the structure, details, and metaphorical value of space into sublime observations on how the contemporary world is still filled with mystery and potential. Whether focused on ordinary spaces or iconic settings, Burdeny’s photographs occupy an artistic middle ground between the physical and the spiritual as he captures both the look and feel of a place.
Tom Chambers, Fragrant Attraction, photograph on aluminum (Edition 1/5), 48 x 48 inches
Utilizing his imagination as well as his camera lens, Tom Chambers creates dreamlike photomontages. Assembled from photos he’s taken (both in the studio or out in the world), Chambers constructs scenes with a sense of magical realism that invites viewers to make their own interpretations of the work.
Our newest works by abstract artists Audra Weaser, Carly Allen Martin, and Meredith Pardue explore the elements, celebrating the beauty of nature in all its forms. The tranquility of water, the excitement of wildflowers, and the strength of rock formations can all be found in these stunning mixed media acquisitions.
Audra Weaser
Audra Weaser, Drift Away, mixed media on panel, 30 x 50 inches
We are so excited to add new work by Audra Weaser to our collection. Inspired by the play of light on water, Weaser’s use of shimmering paint creates work that seems to glow from within—an ethereal celebration of tranquility. Through her signature method of applying layers of paint on board and then intuitively digging back into the layers with a rotary sander, this unique work evokes sunlight’s reflection on calm water .
Carly Allen Martin, Electric Blooms II, mixed media on panel, 72 x 48 inches
As Carly Allen Martin taps into a sense of kindness and shared humanity, her gestural, expressive works carry all the energy and spontaneity of a patch of wildflowers. A riot of color and texture, Allen Martin uses multiple mediums including charcoal, graphite, pastel, and oil paints. The final result is a frenetic expression of positivity and organic mark-making that enriches any space in which it hangs.
Meredith Pardue, Eden I, mixed media on canvas, 48 x 72 inches
Meredith Pardue’s work is a celebration of the natural world, imbued with a sense of organic movement and fluidity. Her pieces evoke both botanical and geological elements, inviting viewers to lose themselves in the delicate interplay of colors and forms. Each bold shape and delicate line in Pardue’s work tells a story, capturing the essence of nature in a way that feels both familiar and entirely new.
If you’ve visited any of our three galleries, you may have noticed that a large percentage of the artwork is framed. As new works come in, we carefully select frames in the gallery before sending the works to our custom framing facility for that perfect finishing touch.
Framing is an art in itself—every choice is made to complement the piece and elevate its impact. Explore the three works below and discover the thought process behind their framing.
Unique “Stacks” for a Traditional Work
Dennis Sheehan, Inlet at Dusk, Oil on canvas, 20 x 20 inches
For Dennis Sheehan’s landscape, Inlet at Dusk, we kept the finish traditional with stacked cap frames. Using multiple styles of moulding creates a truly timeless final product, as mixing and matching elevate the work with a bespoke touch.
John Brandon Sills, Summer Clouds, Oil on canvas, 36 x 48 inches
If your space leans more transitional, try fitting a modern frame onto a traditional piece. Another masterful landscape, Summer Clouds, by John Brandon Sills, is completed with a simple silver “floater” frame with white wooden sides. The frame provides archival stability and a touch of polish without distracting from the soft and serene coastal waterscape.
Raul De La Torre, Fils I Colors series, Mixed media on paper, 30 x 22 inches each
Because Raul de la Torre’s new works are part of an ongoing series, we elected to keep the frames consistent with work we already have in our collection. This silver cap frame with dark sides is used for all of the Fils I Color pieces, allowing collectors to easily incorporate multiple pieces into a single space.
The shadowbox sides provide just enough depth to celebrate the natural ripples and deckled edge of the embroidered paper. Mounting the piece with an archival hinge enables it to seemingly “float” atop the white mat background.
We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Paul Balmer to explore the artistry behind his dynamic compositions. From textured cityscapes to expressive still lifes and figure studies, his work is a masterful blend of structure and spontaneity. Read on for insight into his creative process, techniques, and the inspirations that fuel his distinctive style.
How would you describe your creative process?
I don’t use traditional art materials—I use mostly what I find at the hardware store (wall compounds, marble dust, blades, drill sanders and rollers). My method of applying the paint is also unconventional. After applying thick paint I then draw into that paint with a small drill which gives me an etched line. Then it’s a combination of collaging and sanding the layers.
This entire process makes for all kinds of unintentional marks and unexpected color combinations. The paintings are somewhat out of my control and tend to go off in their own direction. The initial idea changes completely by the end of the painting.
Paul Balmer, Setting Sun, oil on canvas, 64 x 64 inches
How has your work evolved over the years?
I started off doing illustration after college and I got a job teaching drawing in Switzerland, of all places. While I was there I did lots of traveling around Europe and painted the Neoclassical architecture there. I did a whole series of those and brought them to Boston to exhibit. Then I moved to New York City and tried to continue in the same style, but it didn’t quite capture the feel of New York. I started incorporating everything I saw into my paintings—the textures, the bridges, the boats—until a new cityscape style emerged. That became the first body of work I exhibited in New York City.
The textures in my work came from a slight accident where I was painting one of my Neoclassical pieces and it just wasn’t working out. I took a disc sander to the surface and sanded it down to get rid of the paint. It broke through all the layers and all of the other colors came through. That ended up becoming a signature style for the cityscapes, too.
How do you come up with your color palettes?
The color palette is something that comes out of my process. I mix my paints on a huge, five-foot-long glass surface. When a mix gets interesting I set it aside and keep going, gradually discovering colors that work together as a group. I’ll have almost the whole tonal range already worked out before I start the painting.
Do you start with studies before you begin painting?
I like to almost sketch on the canvas but with the Dremel tool, so the lines are carved into the surface. The thing about this process is that I can’t be too precise. I’ll do the drawing, and if it isn’t quite how I want it, I’ll just rearrange it—but all those lines that were there in the beginning will show through in the final piece. It gives the painting much more character and reveals a little bit of the history.
Have any of your travels around the world influenced eras of your work?
I suppose moving from NYC to Connecticut and having a family got me into doing the still lifes—that was one of the big moves. But I always wanted to try to tackle still life because it’s something that all artists have tried at one point or another.
When I travel, I take a lot of pictures. I do landscape painting too, and that’s very influenced by traveling. Especially growing up in South Africa, I was drawn to the lush greens and blues of Stellenbosch and the Cape Town area. And Australia has that red dirt and a bit of a dusty orange color. Those two places, as well as trips to California, influence the landscapes. San Francisco in particular shares the same elements as New York with the boats and the bridges.
Paul Balmer, Early Start, Oil on panel, 48 x 48 inches
Could you speak about the symbolism found in your abstract work?
The symbols represent the passing of time—day and night, seasons, landscape and nature.
I love the order of repetition that is somehow broken up. I was inspired by the structure of a lunar calendar—it’s grid of squares and the changing phases of the moon. I have taken that further by having elements break out of the squares. The collection of symbols are “fragmented” (achieved by layering and sanding the surface).
The grid or “tapestry” is a good way to contain the images of moons waxing and waning and of trees, rocks, rainbows and structures, but some are barely visible as I am trying to get at a memory of a scene or a dream where things are not entirely clear. Some images like stylized stars and rainbows have a childlike quality and other symbols have a deeper meaning. I enjoy the juxtaposition of all that is going on here—the naive and nuanced. The chaos and structure.
This series also came out of the drawings in a sketch book torn out and laid next to each other. Each square represents a miniature canvas, and the hope is that the viewer explores the textures and tone of the individual squares, and pieces together the “story” on the entire canvas.
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where families gather, meals are shared, and memories are made. While you might not think to hang a masterpiece next to your spice rack, the playful juxtaposition of art in a typically utilitarian space can be both delightful and refreshing.
Alexander Sheversky’s Macarons complements this light-filled kitchen with a touch of whimsical realism.
Often treated as a functional space, incorporating art into your kitchen offers a chance to break from the ordinary and express your personality. Whether you want a vibrant, energizing atmosphere to get your creativity flowing while you cook, or a calming space for sipping coffee, the right piece of art elevates the mood.
Emily Filler’s Paper Bouquet adds a little spice to this sleek culinary workspace with collaged elements and a polished silver shadowbox frame.
Whether you’re renovating or simply looking to refresh your cooking space, introducing artwork to your kitchen in a playful, unexpected way can infuse it with charm, character, and style. You can create a collection that spans different media—paintings, collage, or even sculptural works—that speak to the playful, dynamic nature of the kitchen.
This pair of glass sculptures by Dylan Martinez, H2O and Goldfish H2O Bag, make for a fun surprise in these dramatic cabinets.
Adding artwork to your kitchen is about blending creativity with functionality, and embracing the playful, often unexpected, potential of the space. Your kitchen will not only become a place where meals are made but a space where joy and creativity are served daily.
A trio of Coils pieces by Matt Neuman provide the perfect pop of color to this fresh breakfast nook.
A branch of Abstract Expressionism that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, Color Field art emphasizes large swaths of color, with dramatic use of line. The influence of the artists who pioneered the movement can still be felt in works today. Below are a few pieces in our collection that play with the principles of the Color Field movement.
Tom Bolles
Tom Bolles, Luminous 9, mixed media on canvas, 60 x 50 inches
Having abstracted the artistic process down to ones and zeros, Tom Bolles uses computer programs to “sketch” his ideas to maximize the intense relationships between light and color. These glowing hues leap from the canvas in a way that reminds us of Barnett Newman’s large-scale paintings. Bolles’ work typically features horizontal lines–a contrast to the verticality of Newman—but the sentiment of flooding a space with an impactful color becomes all the more modern with the addition of fluorescence.
Jeff Erickson
Jeff Erickson, Blazing Sun, oil and wax on panel, 48 x 48 inches
The work of contemporary artist Jeff Erickson reminds us of Mark Rothko’s masterful use of color as an emotional expression. As he fearlessly takes on electrifying bright colors, Erickson employs an encaustic wax to build layers and then sanding away selected areas. This process of addition and reduction creates an incandescence that draws in the viewer and surrounds them with color and abstracted form.
The concentric circles characteristic of Hoffman’s work echo the explorations of celebrated color field artist Kenneth Noland. Just as Noland used abstracted forms to examine the nature of pure color and the relationships between hues, Hoffman finds inspiration in playful pigmentation of organic shapes. Hoffman then expands on Noland’s circles with webs of textured lines that celebrate the artist’s materials and process for an added sense of depth that is truly stunning in person.
Today we are highlighting the work of Catherine Ebert, a talented designer in the DC area. Catherine’s work seamlessly merges clean, modern architecture with organic shapes and textures. In this Chevy Chase home, Catherine created true harmony, selecting artwork that fits perfectly into each space and building a varied collection for her clients.
Photographed by Stacy Zarin Goldberg
This incredibly open living area plays with symmetry and line. David Burdeny’s photograph of meandering fishing nets fits perfectly above the mantle, adding to the serene, airy atmosphere of the space. The artwork’s crisp finish and composition echo the strong lines of the rectilinear windows and doorways.
In the foyer, Wendy Westlake’s artwork welcomes guests with playful color and dynamic energy. The vibrant jewel tones stand out amongst the quiet neutral tones as the shapes in the painting are echoed in the accessories featured on the entry table.
Beatriz Simon’s expressive artwork nestles perfectly into this lush sitting area. The artist’s themes of home and family life carry into the cozy room, the soft blue wall color and richly textured sofa invite friends and family to take a seat and enjoy one another.
The history of still life painting is rich and varied, with roots tracing back thousands of years. From the ancient Egyptians to the Dutch masters, depictions of objects like food, flowers, and everyday items adorn the walls of museums and tombs alike. With contemporary artists continuing to explore the genre, still life painting has proven its resilience and adaptability.
Left: Still life painting by Joris van Son (c. 1650); Right: Still Life IX by Mersuka Dopazo
The Dutch Golden Age (17th century) saw a remarkable surge in still life painting, as greater urbanization led to a cultural emphasis on personal possessions and the aesthetics of one’s home and belongings. Development of oil painting techniques during this period also allowed for a more nuanced exploration of light, shadow, and texture, adding depth to still life works.
Caravaggio, Still Life with Fruit, Oil on Canvas, 1601-1610, 34.3 x 53.3 inches
A few decades later, the Baroque period introduced a sense of drama and theatricality, with artists like Caravaggio infusing intense contrasts of light and shadow into their compositions.
Pablo Picasso, Nature morte au compotier (Still Life with Compote and Glass), Oil on Canvas, 1914-1915, 25 x 31 inches
As the bustling twentieth century introduced Modernism, artists sought new ways to express themselves: Picasso’s fragmented compositions and Salvador Dalí’s dreamlike arrangements showcased the genre’s adaptability to diverse artistic approaches.
Still Life Today
Emily Filler, Vintage Bouquet V, Mixed Media on Canvas, 54 x 72 inches
Today, the traditional arrangement of objects persists, but artists now push boundaries by incorporating unconventional materials, digital elements, and exploring the intersection of still life with other genres. The genre has become a playground for artistic expression, offering a space to engage with symbolism, cultural commentary, and personal narratives.
Carol O’Malia, Rising Up, Oil on Canvas, 50 x 38 inches framed
Carol O’Malia incorporates historical elements into her own work. The pyramidal composition is a tradition with strong ties to the height of the Renaissance, while the dramatic lighting evokes the drama of a Caravaggio or Dutch Master.
Alexander Sheversky, Sunday Morning, Oil on Canvas, 37.73 x 67.75 inches framed
The term “still life” itself implies a certain tranquility, a moment frozen in time. Alexander Sheversky’s hyperrealistic work captures such moments as his seemingly mundane subjects—a vase of flowers, a jar of candy, or a breakfast ready to serve—are elevated. They have become a visual feast on canvas.
As we admire the works of the past and present, we witness the timeless allure of still life painting – a genre that, like the objects it portrays, remains frozen in perpetual beauty.
Art has always been a huge part of my life. Just looking at a work of art can completely change your mood—what a powerful and awe-inspiring profession to be a part of.
I love getting to share our collection with clients and see them connect with the work on a personal level. When people stop into the gallery for the first time, witnessing the smiles and wonder that art can bring is incredible! Here are a few pieces that have been inspiring me lately…
Carly Allen Martin, Sauvage I, Mixed Media on Panel, 60 x 60 x 2.5 inches
Carly Allen Martin | Sauvage I
This incredible piece by Carly Allen Martin fills me with a sense of joy and whimsy. As the title suggests, it captures the wildness and freedom of nature through energetic brush strokes. And yet we see order in the balance of light and color—a quintessential part of Allen Martin’s work. I love that it captures the essence of nature, but still leaves room for the imagination.
Joshua Brown, Zebra on Dark Night, Oil and Acrylic on Canvas, 36 x 72 inches
Joshua Brown | Zebra on Dark Night
In this piece by Joshua Brown, a myriad of bright paint speckles pop against the midnight-black background, giving the illusion of a sparkling galaxy and adding an infinity of depth behind these beautiful animals. Brown’s delicate brushstrokes masterfully capture the wispy manes of these majestic creatures, his subtle highlights suggesting their ears with a thoughtful flick of white.
Maura Segal, Joshua Tree, Mixed Media on Canvas, 48 x 48 inches
Maura Segal | Joshua Tree
Segal’s work appeals to my inner sense of calm. Her minimalist, abstract composition is layered with intuitively placed hand-cut shapes, to be admired up close and from afar. When you take a step back, the pale pink blocks of color assemble beneath a wandering paper string, swirling playfully through the otherwise orderly composition.
Snowflakes add a wintry touch to this intimate work by JD Hansen in Chevy Chase.
This very giftable sculpture by Hunt Slonem is finished with a bow in Haverford’s window. On the right is Srinjoy‘sHi Beautiful II, 60 x 48 inches.
L-R: Lorenzo Quinn, You Can’t Eat Gold, 66 x 11 x 7 inches; Gavin Benjamin, Miss A Thing 6, 61.5 x 61.5 inches framed
Already have the perfect piece of art? Polish it to perfection with custom framing!Each of our galleries has a wide variety of framing options and friendly, knowledgable consultants to help you make the right selection.
Eddie adds a festive bow to the pedestal for JD Hansen‘s Pinot, 26 x 32 x 12 inches
Ofri perfects the snowflakes in the entryway at Chevy Chase.
Brittany adds a bow to Hunt Slonem‘s Ocelots in Baltimore.
From each and every one of us here at Merritt Gallery and Renaissance Fine Arts, we wish you a wonderful holiday season, full of warmth and peace!
The holiday season is quickly approaching, making now the perfect time to bring in that framing project you’ve been considering as a gift! Ditch the department stores and surprise a loved one with thoughtful custom framing to elevate artwork, beloved photographs, or specialty keepsakes. Read on to see just a few ideas we’re loving this year…
Family Photos
Give the gift of remembering! Framed photos can warm hearts and stir memories.
Transform that stack of photos sitting in a storage box (or stuck on your phone) into a stunning statement for all to see!Precious memories make for beautiful gifts, and our Conservation/UV glazing options can protect the photographs from deteriorating over time. From candids to formal wedding portraits, framing a print in any size can make it easier to remember and admire for years to come.
Framed family photographs personalize this home office with style.
This arrangement plays with shape and scale, balancing different frame styles for plenty of visual interest. A gallery wall also has the potential to be a gift that one could add to for any holiday or gift-giving occasion. Why not start the collection this season?
Diplomas & Achievements
Frame a degree for the recent graduate! In a world where many students had to have “virtual” graduations, a custom frame recognizes their immense achievement. Our consultants can help select the appropriate mat and frame to protect the diploma and even shadowbox the tassel. School colors and tasteful fillets make for a celebratory finished look that the grad can appreciate and show off for many years to come.
As we’ve mentioned in previous posts, custom framing can protect and elevate practically anything. If you can dream it, our team can frame it! The possibilities are endless–from sports memorabilia to vintage clothing to antique china plates, our shop has framed it all.
With design expertise, a vast selection of framing options, and museum quality materials, we’re ready to guide you through the custom framing process and create something special. Reach out to your nearest gallery to get started with one of our knowledgable art consultants.
Earlier this month, Merritt Gallery hosted a series of events for interior designers and industry professionals, as we opened our latest exhibitionWater, Earth, Fire, Air: The Elements of Life.
Interior professionals admire the Elemental exhibition in Baltimore, Photograph by Jessica Leigh
As guests enjoyed small bites and a glass of bubbly, they met with colleagues and our Art Consultants to explore Elemental themes. The serenity of water, fortitude of earth, unyielding passion of fire, and the dynamic movement of air are expressed in a wide range of mediums and aesthetics. Each gallery provided a unique platform for professionals in the industry to come together, exchange ideas, and appreciate the versatility of fine art.
Chevy Chase: Bites & Bubbly | September 28
Attendees gather near refreshments in Chevy Chase’s custom framing area
We began the this dynamic event series in our Chevy Chase gallery, where the combination of food, art, and lively conversation ensured that the experience was an unforgettable celebration of the synergy between interior design and the world of fine art. Curated selections for each of the four elements was the focal point of the exhibit on display, captivating attendees with its diversity and creativity. From the serene stability of a Lynn Johnson in the Earth section to the exciting abstracted designs by Matt Neuman in our Fire section, there was something for every design taste.
Two designers dig into their Merritt Gallery branded “swag” bags, Photograph by Jessica Leigh
Baltimore: Dwell & Tell | October 5
A welcoming threshold for the Dwell & Tell event in Baltimore, Photograph by Jessica Leigh
In partnership with Baltimore Design District, our Dwell & Tell event invited architects, designers, and home finishes vendors to meet and mingle among the artwork. Attendees shared their thoughts on the exhibit, upcoming projects, and the latest design trends as they sipped Prosecco and sampled charcuterie. Guests left with not only a deeper appreciation for fine art but also a network of peers, colleagues, and potential collaborators.
Haverford Consultants pose among the “Earth” artwork; (L-R): Tara, Director Marcie, and Patti
In our Haverford gallery, the Elemental artwork served as a source of inspiration, sparking discussions as interior design professionals found themselves drawn to different pieces for various projects and clients. As attendees meandered through the gallery, our Art Consultants called attention to the intricate details and unique perspectives that our artists bring to their work. The exciting blend of fine art, good conversation, and hors d’oeuvres made for a wonderful evening as design and fine art were harmoniously intertwined.
A wide range of new works has arrived from Hunt Slonem’s studio and we are so excited to share a few recent paintings from this iconic artist. The hand-selected, gilded antique frames, use of glittering Diamond Dust, and the magnificence of an aviary have dazzled and delighted our three galleries. Read on to see more of what’s been recently uncrated.
Hunt Slonem, Peace Plan Now, Oil on Canvas, 57.5 x 69.5 inches framed
Peace Plan Now
Inspired by his 60 pet birds, Slonem often paints figures from his flock. In this stunning work, he hit the trifecta: birds, butterflies, and a beautiful antique gold frame. As can be seen, the crisp, white birds and the background’s neutral tones balance the vibrancy of the Monarch butterflies. With a playful use of space and enticing details, this large-scale work is even more impactful in person.
Hunt Slonem, Savannah, Oil and Acrylic with Diamond Dust on Wood, 19.5 x 19 inches framed
Savannah
Looking for a statement piece? Adding to a maximalist gallery wall? This glitzy heart-shaped bunny portrait is sure to stand out and make an impression. Slonem’s use of Diamond Dust in the ombre background heightens the sense of glamour as the sparkling, captured light evokes all the luster of a ruby.
Hunt Slonem, Shiva, Oil on Canvas, 38 x 48 inches framed
Shiva
In addition to being the first of its kind at Merritt Gallery, this painted peacock has certainly enamored us with its darker color palette and technical splendor. The thick oil paint swirls together thoughtful jewel tones for a mesmerizing, radiant effect. Lush blues and greens are accented with careful touches of white and yellow to highlight this regal display of feathers and plumage.
Many artists turn to nature for inspiration, some going so far as to paint and create out among the elements. “En plein air,” a French term that translates to “outdoors,” refers to a centuries-old tradition of painting outside of a studio.
Until the mid-1800s, most artists’ paints were mixed by hand in the studio and were not easily portable. With the invention of the collapsible paint tube in 1841, artists were soon able to transport their paints and canvases to any location that could support an easel. The landscapes soon poured into the Grand Salons of the world as artists studied light and color amongst the trees, hills, and vistas.
Tubes of paint and the palette used by Vincent Van Gogh on display at the Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh wrote often about painting en plein air, roaming the French countryside and capturing the idyllic views with his keen eye for color. In a letter to his brother, Van Gogh remarked, “I painted a study on the beach. There are some sea walls or breakwaters…I sat on one and painted the rising tide until it came so close that I had to pack up my things.”
Several of our own artists paint directly from nature. Read on to learn how they interpret light and form differently in their landscapes.
John Brandon Sills
John Brandon Sills, Barn on Hill, Oil on Canvas, 48 x 60 inches
Baltimore-area painter and 2021 Plein Air Easton Award Winner, John Brandon Sills captures the hills, barns, and waterways of Maryland with a stunning grasp of light and color. “In my plein air work, I try to capture the essence of an experience, hoping to express the vitality of nature in brushstroke and color,” says the artist. As the painting above illustrates, Sills beautifully transfers the sense of light, depth, and even heat so well that we find ourselves squinting at the sunlight pouring from the canvas in this rendition of a local barn.
Enraptured by the American Tonalism movement that arose in the late Nineteenth century, Dennis Sheehan utilizes contrast to capture moments of transition in nature: dawn, dusk, storms, and seasonal changes. Sheehan explains, “My goal is to have the painting emanate light. This is why the areas of shadow are so important, for it is from them that this emanation proceeds.” Indeed, these paintings are more like windows to some distant field, uncannily familiar and utterly calm.
Inspired by the transcendent surroundings of his home in the American West, Noice captures the landscapes—particularly foliage—with a playful use of vibrant color. Having mastered both oil paint and pastel, many of his painting titles reflect the places and local nature he portrays so well. In this painting, his painterly brushstrokes transport the viewer to a shady copse of trees, at once titillated by the leaves and soothed by the balanced trees.
Tying the Knot? Celebrating an anniversary? You’ve planned the big day down to the minute. Why not invest in the preservation of those precious memories? Protect your wedding-related keepsakes with custom framing!
Many cultures have marital traditions with tangible treasures. Read on below to see options for enshrining a precious memory.
Ketubah
For thousands of years, Jewish weddings have incorporated these marital contracts as a key element of the nuptial process. While the bridal couple is required to review the document with their Rabbi and sign it ahead of time, the document is later read as part of the wedding ceremony and often displayed during the reception.
Rabbi signing the Ketubah alongside the Bride. Photo: Wikipedia Commons
As many Ketubot are hand-crafted, they should be treated as works of art and framed using archival materials. Important documents like this also benefit greatly from anti-reflection acrylic or glass, to eliminate glare and UV damage as well as to maintain readability. Ensure the longevity of your Ketubah as quickly as possible to prevent damaging this precious contract.
Select your mat and frame options ahead of the signature ceremony. We can mount your ketubah with a mat for a polished look to display at the reception (Mazel tov!), and then return it to our shop to add the glass and fit into a custom frame while you’re away for the honeymoon. Our custom frame shop has decades of experience accommodating such traditions and would be pleased to help make your day that much more special and seamless.
Hand-Fasting Cords
Hand-fasting is an ancient Celtic tradition that celebrates the unification of the Bride and Groom by binding their hands with cords. This is where the expression “tying the knot” comes from! While the materials for the cords can vary—sometimes they’re braided ribbons, sometimes they’re placed by parents or witnesses—most traditions hold that it is bad luck to ever untangle the knot created during the ceremony. Recently, we helped frame a set of hand-fasting cords along with the wedding invitations and photos for a custom keepsake shadowbox.
Client’s wedding items arranged on our framing table in foreground, framing options in background.
As pictured, we played around with mat and framing options that would complement the color scheme of the invitations. But in the end the client selected a white fabric backing coupled with a clean white cap frame to allow the items to be the focal point. Additionally, the inclusion of the invitation suite also created a more engaging composition, allowing the cords to be a dynamic centerpiece that ties it all together.
The final product! Everything is mounted for both safekeeping and timeless display.
Need more Inspiration?
Preserve your mementos from the wedding celebrations with framing that compliments and safeguards the items. Here are a few more ideas of what you could save with custom framing solutions:
Marriage License
Handwritten vows
Pressed or preserved flowers
Invitation suite
Photographs
Menus, ceremony programs, table markers, signage, etc.
Working around such gorgeous works of art is an endless source of inspiration for our staff. Some mornings we clearly have art on the brain as we dress for the day, take a look below at some recent moments of serendipity in the gallery.
Browse our diverse collection by Artist or Category. On both of these pages, you can utilize the Art Search drop-down to filter artwork by orientation, size, or color.
Every artist needs their muse. Whether it’s nature, fashion, or the old masters of art history inspiring our artists, these new works feature portraits that exude both strength and femininity. Read on to get a glimpse of what’s new in the gallery this month.
Gavin Benjamin
Gavin Benjamin, Miss a Thing 4, Mixed Media on Board, 60 x 60 inches
This exciting new series by Gavin Benjamin reflects the artist’s respect and admiration for haute couture. Each original piece is one of kind and evokes the prestige and glamour found on an international runway. These large mixed media works on board feature collaged elements and Swarovski crystals for that extra sparkle. During a recent gallery visit, Benjamin shared more about his love of fashion and being able to “see the hand” that goes into the work in this series. See a clip from that discussion here.
Henrik Abedian, Nothingness is the Outline of the Familiar I, Sublimation on Aluminum, 30 x 30 inches
This striking homage to an icon is propelled into the twenty-first century with its abstracted silhouette and spotlighted, instantly recognizable hands. Abedian’s signature juxtaposition of known and abstracted elements delights and surprises. Just as DaVinci’s Mona Lisa evokes the grandeur and cultural awakening of the Renaissance, this work feels distinctly refreshing and accomplished.
Anke, In the Garden II, Mixed Media on Panel, 60 x 48 inches
Large-scale collage artist Anke has once again wowed us with her inspiring compositions and playful, polished portraits. Combining visual elements from nature, Anke fuses lush foliage and sublimely feathered wings to craft a unique profile. This series balances softness and strength; the subject is at once both stoic and graceful.
