What is the meaning of the art term Mounting Board?

Mounting board is a type of rigid board used for various applications including framing artwork, mounting photographs, and display purposes. It is commonly made of lightweight and durable materials such as foam board, cardboard, or solid plastic like polystyrene.

Mounting board comes in various thicknesses and sizes to accommodate different needs. It is often available in different colors and finishes to provide aesthetic appeal. Mounting board is typically used in combination with other materials like adhesive tape or glue to secure the artwork or photograph in place.

Mounting board, also known as mat board or matting, is a flat, stiff, and rectangular piece of material that is commonly used in the field of art for various purposes. It is usually made of a thick, acid-free, and archival-quality paper-based material. Mounting board is available in a wide range of sizes, thicknesses, and colors to suit different artistic needs.

The primary purpose of mounting boards is to provide support and protection to artworks, photographs, or other valuable items. They help to keep the artwork flat, prevent warping or bending, and provide a barrier between the artwork and the external environment. By providing a stable backing, mounting boards help in preserving the artwork's structural integrity and prolong its lifespan.

Mounting boards are generally used in three main ways:

1. Framing: Mounting boards are an essential component of framing artwork. They create a border or window around the artwork that enhances its presentation and provides a clear visual separation between the artwork and the frame. The board can be customized by cutting a window or multiple windows of different shapes and sizes according to the artist's or framer's design preferences. This helps to focus the viewer's attention on the artwork and create a professional, finished look.

2. Mounting: Mounting boards are also used to securely attach the artwork to a backing or substrate. This is particularly common when working with paper-based artworks, such as prints, drawings, or paintings on paper. The artwork is typically hinged onto the mounting board using archival-quality tape or adhesive, ensuring that it remains firmly in place and reducing the risk of damage from handling or environmental factors.

3. Displaying: Mounting boards can be used to create standalone displays or stands for artworks. By attaching an easel or support to the back of the mounting board, the artwork can be displayed on a tabletop or shelf, allowing viewers to appreciate it without the need for a frame or wall-mounted display. This can be useful for temporary exhibitions or when showcasing artworks in non-traditional settings.

When selecting a mounting board, it is important to consider factors such as the desired thickness, color, and material composition. Artists and framers often choose acid-free, lignin-free, and pH-neutral boards to ensure the archival quality of the artwork. The thickness of the mounting board can also vary depending on the size of the artwork and the desired visual effect.

In addition to its functional aspects, mounting boards can also contribute to the aesthetic of the artwork. Artists often choose complementary or contrasting colors for the mounting board to enhance the visual impact of the artwork and create a harmonious composition.

Mounting boards play a vital role in the presentation, protection, and preservation of artworks, providing a versatile and customizable solution for artists, framers, and art collectors.