About Frames of Reference

The Frames of Reference concept was born some years ago when the Founder wanted to source a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift. Unable to find something high-end and truly personal, he realized that he would have to create such a gift himself. After considering the history that he shared with his mother, he created a framed artwork that physically evidenced these memories. Phil was delighted to see how moved she was by the piece. However, he didn’t anticipate the flood of requests for similar artworks from those that saw it.

Philip Shaw

FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Phil is an anthropologist and artist, fascinated by the emotional connections between people. Drawing upon his extensive experience within the arts and visual anthropology, it felt natural to find ways of artistically representing such bonds.

  • Emma

    “The finished piece is simply stunning! At first glance it looks like a beautiful, unique piece of art but I love looking at all of the incredibly intricate details and subtleties and discovering something new about it everytime I look. It is something I could stare at for hours and relive different memories. I already have members of my family who are desperate for one to be made for them.”

    Emma Furse-Roberts, London

    “The finished piece is simply stunning! At first glance it looks like a beautiful, unique piece of art but I love looking at all of the incredibly intricate details and subtleties and discovering something new about it everytime I look. It is something I could stare at for hours and relive different memories. I already have members of my family who are desperate for one to be made for them.”

    Emma Furse-Roberts, London

  • Mark

    “The Frames of Reference experience makes you think about what’s really important in your life and that’s a wonderful thing. We have a unique piece of art which will stay with the family for generations to come. Mind blowing, stunning, breathtaking.”

    Mark Wilson, London

    “The Frames of Reference experience makes you think about what’s really important in your life and that’s a wonderful thing. We have a unique piece of art which will stay with the family for generations to come. Mind blowing, stunning, breathtaking.”

    Mark Wilson, London

  • Sarah

    “I would wholeheartedly recommend FoR. Not only are the Frames themselves stunning, but I haven’t come across anything that can match them in terms of thoughtfulness, imagination and creativity. A wonderful way to mark a special occasion or simply show love to someone significant in your life.”

    Sarah MacRae, London

    “I would wholeheartedly recommend FoR. Not only are the Frames themselves stunning, but I haven’t come across anything that can match them in terms of thoughtfulness, imagination and creativity. A wonderful way to mark a special occasion or simply show love to someone significant in your life.”

    Sarah MacRae, London

  • Rebecca

    “It’s so personal to the couple – it’s hard to believe that Phil has never met them! It’s such a beautiful piece. I keep taking it out of the box to look at it again. I can’t wait to give it to them, and at the same time I’m going to be sad to give it away because it’s come to feel personal to me too as a result of the process we’ve gone through together to create it.”

    Rebecca Holt, London

    “It’s so personal to the couple – it’s hard to believe that Phil has never met them! It’s such a beautiful piece. I keep taking it out of the box to look at it again. I can’t wait to give it to them, and at the same time I’m going to be sad to give it away because it’s come to feel personal to me too as a result of the process we’ve gone through together to create it.”

    Rebecca Holt, London

  • Francesca

    “I found the process of creating the Frame really well managed by FoR. It can be emotional recounting all the memories you’ve had with a loved one but this was handled with such sensitivity. I felt like I was part of the artistic team and was so excited to see the finished product! I’ve never given a gift that I’m so proud of and giving it is truly a memorable moment in that relationship.”

    Francesca Wilding, London

    “I found the process of creating the Frame really well managed by FoR. It can be emotional recounting all the memories you’ve had with a loved one but this was handled with such sensitivity. I felt like I was part of the artistic team and was so excited to see the finished product! I’ve never given a gift that I’m so proud of and giving it is truly a memorable moment in that relationship.”

    Francesca Wilding, London

So whether you’re looking to celebrate a marriage, a new arrival, an anniversary, or to commemorate any other significant event or relationship, we can help in creating something unforgettable, that literally puts those who are important to you ‘in the frame’.

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