Monday, May 13, 2019

Medallion Display Options!

There are many tiny easels and stands available that range from wood, plastic, or metal to other methods that hang or display.  It is necessary to experiment with them as some medallions rest comfortably and securely in them while others feel delicately balanced.  It would be a shame to damage a fallen piece!  Some medallions are very solid shapes with a background while others feature delicate features such as eartips, nostril edges, tiny legs or tendrils of mane, tail, or forelock.

Plaques, frames, and wall mounting
Whether decorating a wall, being used as an award plaque, or floating mounted in a frame, some larger pieces are best hung.  The same applies for pieces that don’t sit well in a stand.  While preparing for May Medallion Madness, I acquired a gorgeous larger piece that will benefit from background mount before display.  Another set of beautiful translucent resin pieces will look best together fixed onto a metallic sheen background.  After attaching to wood or canvas board backgrounds, I can prop them up in a stand to enjoy.

Magnets & Ornaments
Some pieces are designed with function in mind, to serve as a magnet or hang as decor.  Consider attachment of strong magnets with a good adhesive.  Beautiful but secure ribbons, wire, or other connectors can loop through or onto a piece for hanging or decorating.



Busts
Often displayed on small pedestals or atop shelves or furniture, a partial sculpt or 3-D head study should be properly protected on the base so as not to incur damage.  Felt, cork, or rubber pads absorb vibration and also keep surfaces from reacting with each other chemically or physically.

Stands/Easels
The small wooden easel frames may be perfect in size and heft, just be sure they are sturdy and won’t collapse.  Often the feet on these will slide out under weight of a piece.


Wire and plastic display stands and easels are readily available for collectible plates and plaques, even for coin collectors.  Make sure they fit and support the piece well and that they won’t scratch or damage the finish.


I found small flocked plastic pieces used to extend clothes hangers that are a great way to safely prop up a medallion for show purposes, holding it an angle and their soft cradle won’t mar the finish.  Still other stands or weights made to hold up photos can be suitable so long as they are secure and don’t detract from the piece.

Functional items and Showing!
Other uses of these smaller pieces may include jewelry,such as pins or pendants, keychains, ornaments, or other giftware like trinket boxes or small trays/dishes.  



Regarding the show and display of our beloved medallions, it is a matter of personal taste.  Photos should be clear and simple, showcasing the well-lit sculpture and finishwork on a simple background.  Experiment with lighting and angles to present them to their best advantage.


It is nice to credit artists just as we do in models - noting sculpting and finishing artists as well as the name of the edition whether we name the individual art or not.  We can assign breed and gender and also show them in color categories.  Such beautiful equine art deserves recognition, and their time has arrived, both on our shelves and in live shows and online!

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