In past articles for this wonderful magazine, we have shown glorious fabrics, fabulous lighting, and elegant and fun furniture finds in “Pamela’s Picks”. However, a very significant element in successful interior design is art!

And most important to a work of art is how it is framed. Just about everyone has art of some sort, so let’s talk about framing, and the value and beauty a good frame adds to any piece of art. But first, let me share with you an adventure which brought me to this column’s topic.

It was difficult to leave Sarasota and fly to DC rather than spend some well-deserved time at the beach. But I did, and it was for a good cause. I had been asked to assist The Prince of Wales Foundation in their endeavor to preserve traditional artisan crafts (such as gilding, wood and stone carving, wrought iron and stained glass making) not only in Great Britain and the U.S., but around the world.

One of The Foundation’s specific goals is to teach the ancient craft of gilding to disadvantaged children through a robust international series of workshops and classes. Part of my “entrance exam” to work with The Foundation was to take an intensive two-day course in Water Gilding. The course was taught by one of the world’s foremost gliders and frame historians, William B. Adair of Gold Leaf Studios in Washington, D.C. He is also the founder of The International Institute for Frame Study, and is one of the leading forces in providing education and a skill set in the art of gilding to young people around the world through The Foundation’s programs. It is an admirable task.

What a great way to spend the weekend and learn so much.