Diachrome FineArt acrylic mounting: depth and presentation for my prints

6 min read

Why choose a plexiglass mount?

The Plexi Diachrome FineArt mounting places the print beneath acrylic glass. This choice alters the perception of light, contrast and depth. For my Imaginary Planets, I regard it as a finish to be chosen in accordance with the image and its future location, rather than as a universal formula.

This technique, which I use regularly in my photographic series, not only enhances the colours and details, but also lends a new dimension to my poetic and dreamlike compositions. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey to discover this technique and its incredible benefits, particularly in showcasing the ‘Imaginary Planets’.

‘Village Vitesse’, a photograph from Paul Marnef’s ‘Imaginary Planets’ series
Village Vitesse – Photograph of an Imaginary Planet created by Paul Marnef

1. What is a Fine Art Diachrome Mount under Plexiglas?

The term ‘Diachrome’ refers to a presentation in which the print is mounted under acrylic glass. A distinction must be made between the printing process and the mounting: the paper, inks, thickness of the acrylic and backing material are all determined by the finish offered by the laboratory. Art Factory presents its photographs mounted under plexiglass; I rely on these details to choose a suitable presentation.

The originality of the process lies in the addition of a sheet of Plexiglas directly over the printed work. This lightweight, transparent material protects the photograph while lending the colours a unique brilliance and intensity. Thanks to this transparency, the vibrant hues of my creations – whether orange skies, deep blues or delicate floral textures – are revealed with striking intensity.

2. Highlighting the Colours and Details in MY PHOTOS FROM ‘Imaginary Planets’

The distinctive feature of the ‘Imaginary Planets’ lies in their blend of poetic realism and fantasy. These floating worlds, surreal landscapes and mysterious horizons come to life through imagination and photography. For me, as the creator of these worlds, it is essential that every print reflects this magical and immersive essence.

The FineArt Diachrome montage under Plexiglas enhances this experience. Every detail of the image – the textures of a stormy sky, the softness of a sunset or the geometric structure of an urban landscape – is brought to life by the Plexiglas, which adds an incredible sense of depth. The three-dimensional effect created gives the impression that each planet is actually floating in space, offering the viewer total immersion in the artwork.

For example, in one of my works entitled ‘Qu’elle est Belle’, the transparency and luminosity provided by the Plexiglas bring out the subtle contrasts between the bare trees and the soft colours of the surrounding clouds. This lighting effect captures the very essence of this imaginary planet, where every element floats weightlessly, whilst remaining anchored in the real world.

‘Bleu de Toi’, a photograph from Paul Marnef’s ‘Imaginary Planets’ series
Bleu de toi – photograph of an Imaginary Planet created by Paul Marnef

3. Protection and exhibition conditions

The mounting protects the printed surface under the conditions for which it was manufactured. This should not be taken to imply universal protection against UV light, humidity or impact. For outdoor display or a specific location, I request confirmation from the laboratory: the mere presence of Plexiglas is not sufficient to guarantee suitability for such use.

Furthermore, the visual quality of Plexiglas is unrivalled. My ‘Imaginary Planets’, exhibited in galleries in Belgium and elsewhere in Europe, immediately catch the eye thanks to the intensity of the colours and the sense of depth created by this display. For visitors, this creates an enriched visual experience, where each work seems to come to life before their very eyes.

4. Depth and Light: A New Dimension

The FineArt Diachrome mounting under Plexiglas does more than simply enhance the colours; it also adds a unique visual depth. This depth arises from the space between the artwork and the Plexiglas surface. The resulting floating effect is particularly striking in works such as Free or Symphony, where the compositions already invite reflection on space, freedom and infinity.

In Free, the seagull gliding through a dazzling sky appears to rise out of the frame thanks to this three-dimensional effect. This technique reinforces the sense of freedom and escape that I seek to convey through this image. The viewer is invited to let themselves be carried away, to feel that same lightness, as if they too were floating in this celestial universe.

5. Presentation and limited edition: two distinct choices

One of the distinctive features of my ‘Imaginary Planets’ is that they are produced as a limited edition, an approach that guarantees their exclusivity. The FineArt Diachrome mounting under Plexiglas fits perfectly with this vision of a rare and precious work of art. Each print is produced with care, and this process provides a luxurious finish that further enhances the work.

As a photographer and artist, it is essential to me that every work finds its place in the collections of art lovers or in prestigious exhibition spaces. Thanks to this type of mounting, each print becomes a work of art in its own right, ready to be displayed and admired. Supplied with or without frames, the works feature in private collections in Belgium, France and elsewhere in Europe.

If you are seeking a professional photo lab in Belgium that can print your artwork and photographs on Plexiglas to museum standards, I recommend Art Factory in Nivelles, Walloon Brabant.

‘Getting out of the Vortex’, a photograph from Paul Marnef’s ‘Imaginary Planets’ series
Fine art photograph by Paul Marnef: Getting out of the Vortex

Conclusion

The FineArt Diachrome mounting under Plexiglas is much more than a simple presentation technique. It is a method that enhances my artistic creations and gives them a new dimension. Each print becomes a living work of art, where colours, contrasts and details take on a distinct depth. For a Belgian fine art photographer like myself, creator of the ‘Imaginary Planets’, this technique is essential for bringing my poetic and dreamlike worlds to life, whilst offering lasting protection and an elegant presentation.

Discover the works available in fine art finishes

The Imaginary Planets are available in several professional finishes: Fine Art prints, ChromaLuxe, Diachrome or other media depending on the artwork. Each print is produced as a limited edition, signed, numbered and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

To continue your exploration

Would you like to find out more about a work or how it is presented? Please write to me to discuss it. You can also explore other topics on the fine art photography blog.

See also: Dibond in fine art photography: understanding the substrate and lamination; Framing a fine art photograph: frame, glass or shadow box?.