For those of us who have been in New Bern for a while, we lost an extremely talented artist a few years back, Illustrator by profession, award -winning artist accepted by the Library of Congress and watercolor artist, Norm Robbins.
Norm sometimes painted on both the front and the back of 140 lb. Cold Press Watercolor Paper. Why would he do this? This paper is expensive and archival. Well into his 90s, Norm was an extremely prolific artist but not always having the money to purchase more paper. Therefore, to save a few dollars he would sometimes paint on both sides.
So, in walks a patron who purchased one of Norm Robbins paintings (actually, two paintings), and how to display both sides?? Since we frame stained glass, it was only natural to frame Norm Robbins two paintings on one watercolor paper the same way. You flip it over and presto!!! A second painting.
We framed Norman’s work with Mahogany wood and hooks on each side. My recommendation is to always hang HEAVY glass panels (5-10lbs.) with two hooks and two chains. If your hook fails or your nail in the wall fails, you will be coming home to a glass panel or or in this situation, Norm Robbins very heavy framed creation swinging on one hook.
Yes, saving the ART is top priority.
