The Quest to go Unframed

As a brand new, seeking to exhibit, artist I hated framing. Getting it done professionally, was not feasible. The expense would have put my pricing way out of league for work from a budding artist. So, I taught myself to cut mats, I purchased the most affordable frames off the shelf and matted my paintings to fit. This worked out as an affordable option and made my work ready to hang for galleries.

I would frame for a gallery show, which meant white mat and black frame. The simplicity of these recommendations were in line with my aesthetic. I like the art to take the stage and not the framing. However, the austere choices might turn off some buyers. In fact, sometimes purchasers will discard the framing supplied and get it re-framed on their own. Of course, it is important to have art displayed in the manner you choose, but I was troubled by the waste.
For the first time, I questioned the soundness of my medium. Acrylic and oil painters could paint on many, many substrates; seal their work and exhibit or sell it. Framing is an option for these mediums not a requirement.  And of course, acrylic and oil paintings do not need to be behind glass.
Surely there is a solution. I started asking at art supply stores. Not former art stores turned home decor, I mean art stores selling professional materials and clerks who are probably actual artists themselves. And the answer was no. Too chancy, it won't work.
I went about my business and framed and matted like a good little artist, but the question remained, isn't there a better way?
And then one day there was...

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