Frames

Frames are important to art, not because of what they hold in, but because of what they keep out.
 
In order to experience art in full, we must approach it in a state of complete aesthetic consciousness. Contemplation allows us to see through the appearance of the object into its inner nature, its true form. We can do this only if we maintain disinterest, meaning that we don’t make use of the object for our own interests, to serve our selves.
 
In order to contemplate the object appropriately, it must be lifted out of all normal relations. As soon as we let our desires in, the spell is broken. We indulge; the art becomes sentimental.
 
The frame surrounding a picture, however, may act as a border or boundary, keeping our desires from entering our consciousness.

 
When it comes to aesthetic consciousness, could it be that framed art is better than nature that is wide open? Everyday aesthetic experiences may be too easily interested.