Frame Within is part of a growing series exploring the idea of paintings within paintings—a thread that has reemerged in my studio practice after time spent working alongside a fellow painter on a piece called Structured Glass. While that painting hinted at an implied frame, Frame Within makes it more explicit. I was drawn to the layered imagery and interplay between transparency, color, and form. The glass bottles, bowls, and vessels—objects I’ve long been captivated by—carry memories of childhood awe: the way glass sparkled, held color, and played with light.

Though this piece is more detailed than Structured Glass, the square 10″ x 10″ format (a gift from my friend) lends a crisp, modern edge. I see this series—eventually six paintings in total—as a reflection on visibility, framing, and storytelling. What do we choose to see? And what stories are quietly held within the edges?

For collectors, this piece offers an intimate scale with rich visual depth—a bold yet refined addition to a gallery wall or a thoughtfully curated shelf. Its square format creates a natural balance that complements both traditional and modern interiors. Frame Within also marks the early stage of a cohesive and conceptually driven collection, making it a meaningful acquisition for those who appreciate narrative, color, and the alchemy of glass and light. Whether displayed solo or alongside others in the series, it invites a sense of wonder and quiet contemplation.

Here’s a photo of my inspiration and set up that helped me create this painting.

Frame Within is available, and I’m excited to share that it’s the second in a small, focused collection of paintings called Linked Instincts: The Space Between Glass and Frame. This collection speaks to quiet, intuitive connection of nested imagery, transparency, and the subtle threads that bind composition, color and meaning in a contained space.

Stay tuned as the rest of the collection unfolds—each piece offering its own layered story within the frame.

Warmly,
Catherine

Categories: Interiors, Linked Instincts: The Space Between Glass and Frame, New Paintings, Original oil paintings, Still LifeTags: art, art collection, art for sale, cheerful colors, color and form, contemporary art, glass bottles, Linked Instincts: The Space Between Glass and Frame, modern still life, narrative painting, oil painting, painting, square format, still life art, transparency