MULTI-LAYER GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATIONS

Abstract

The multi-layer graphic illustration includes a first frame coupled to a second frame. A background image is fastened to the first frame and a foreground image is coupled to the second frame and offset from the background image. In this regard, the multi-layer graphic illustration produces a three-dimensional image effect due to the offset nature of the background image relative to the foreground image as mounted to each respective frame.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to art and painting. More particularly, the invention relates to multi-layer graphic illustrations that produce a three-dimensional effect.

Historically, paintings have been two-dimensional. These types of paintings date back as early as cave paintings and are continually produced in many different types of artwork today. Over time, artists have employed a plurality of different methods and techniques of applying paint or other media to a surface (e.g. canvas, board, wood, etc.) to form these two-dimensional paintings. Artists have even endeavored to employ techniques for producing three-dimensional effects such as raised paint textures. Nevertheless, these images or paintings are still physically two-dimensional and lack the depth required to produce a three-dimensional effect. Accordingly, such single layer artwork has physical limitations that cannot be overcome to produce true three-dimensional effects. Moreover, wall sculptures, although placed on a wall in the same manner as a two-dimensional image or painting, is still considered a three-dimensional sculpture. Thus, the prior art fails to disclose graphic illustrations capable of producing a three-dimensional effect within the traditional two-dimensional picture plane.

There exists, therefore, a significant need for a multi-layer graphic illustration capable of producing a three-dimensional effect within a traditional two-dimensional plane. Such a multi-layer graphic illustration should include multiple complementary semi-transparent or fully transparent two-dimensional images spaced apart from one another, should include a common background image complementary to the semi-transparent or fully transparent two-dimensional images, should allow for more than two layers of images, and should be compatible with a plurality of different artistic materials. The present invention fulfills these needs and provides further related advantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention for a multi-layer graphic illustration includes a first frame associated with a second frame. A background image is mechanically or adhesively fastened to the first frame and a foreground image is coupled to the second frame and offset from the background image to produce a three-dimensional image effect. In one embodiment, the first frame is an outer frame and the second frame is a relatively smaller inner frame. Here, the inner frame couples to the inside of the outer frame by friction fit or snap-tight fit. Accordingly, the foreground image is wedged between the outer frame and the inner frame. In an alternative embodiment, the first frame and the second frame are offset by a plurality of spacers, such as dowels. The offset nature of the first frame relative to the second frame produces a gap therebetween. An artist may complement the background image or the foreground image by applying additional lighting or other image effects through the gap between the first frame and the second frame.

Preferably, the foreground image is complementary to and substantially planar with the background image. Moreover, an additional supplemental image coupled to the first frame may be complementary to and offset from the background image and the foreground image to enhance the three-dimensional effect in accordance with the present invention. The background image, the foreground image, or the supplemental image preferably comprises a painting or a photograph. Moreover, a portion of the background image, the foreground image, and the supplemental image may be substantially transparent to enable adequate viewing of at least a portion of the designs thereon. The multi-layer graphic illustration may also include a substantially transparent protective cover. In one embodiment, the protective cover mounts to the outside of the first frame when the second frame is disposed within its interior. In an alternative embodiment, the protective cover mounts to the outside of the second frame when the second frame is offset from the first frame by the spacers. The protective cover preferably comprises glass or plastic and provides protection for the multi-layer graphic illustration.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate the invention. In such drawings:

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a multi-layer graphic illustration in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an assembled multi-layer graphic illustration;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-layer graphic illustration, taken about the line 3-3 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a corner of the multi-layer graphic illustration, taken about the circle 4 in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative multi-layer graphic illustration in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the alternative multi-layer graphic illustration of FIG. 5, fully assembled;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled alternative multi-layer graphic illustration, taken about the line 7-7 in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a corner of the alternative multi-layer graphic illustration, taken about the circle 8 in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a multi-layer graphic illustration having offset frames;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fully assembled multi-layer graphic illustration having offset frames;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled multi-layer graphic illustration having offset frames, taken about the line 11-11 in FIG. 10; and

FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a corner of the multi-layer graphic illustration having offsetting frames, taken about the circle 12 in FIG. 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As shown in the drawings for purposes of illustration, the present invention for a multi-layer graphic illustration is generally referenced to as numeral 10. As shown in FIG. 1, the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 includes a main frame 12 that has a substantially two-dimensional background 14 attached thereto. In general, the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 is an artwork capable of providing three-dimensional aspects into an otherwise two-dimensional painting and corresponding frame. The main frame 12 is a box-like structure that receives the background 14 and is capable of serving as a canvas to stretch a second layer 16 in conjunction with a secondary frame 18. In a preferred embodiment, the background 14 attaches around the outer periphery of the main frame 12 by any method known in the art. For example, the background 14 may attach to the main frame 12 by an adhesive, staples, clips or another mechanism capable of attaching a canvas-like layer to a frame. An artist preferably paints a background design 20 to the background 14 before attachment to main frame 12. In an alternative embodiment, the background design 20 may be a photograph or other printed surface that comprises the background 14.

A secondary design 22 painted or otherwise applied to the second layer 16 may complement the background design 20 as best shown in FIG. 2. Like the background 14, the second layer 16 may comprise a photograph, a painted canvas or virtually any other surface capable of receiving a design or picture. Preferably, the second layer 16 is somewhat transparent such that a viewer is capable of seeing the background design 20 imparted to the background 14. The secondary frame 18 is preferably sized to be received within the interior perimeter of the main frame 12 to effectively stretch and retain a portion of the outer periphery of the second layer 16 therebetween. In this manner, the second layer 16 is stretched within the interior of the main frame 12 similar to a canvas. In this embodiment, the secondary frame 18 remains wedged within the interior of the main frame 12 by friction fit, snap tight fit or any other method known in the art for retaining one frame relative to another.

In accordance with using the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 as artwork, the main frame 12 may also serve as a final decorative frame such that a user need not purchase another frame in order to display the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 of the present invention as artwork. This aspect of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 eliminates the need for purchasing another frame. The main frame 12 may also serve as a holder for other layers, as described in more detail below. Preferably, the main frame 12 and the secondary frame 18 are box-like rigid structures that have decorative and structural functions, as described above. But, a person of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the main frame 12 and the secondary frame 18 may be formed in virtually any shape, size or form as long as the frames 12, 18 are capable of retaining a plurality of layers to form the three-dimensional effect as described herein with regard to the present invention. Ultimately, the main purpose of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 is as decorative art.

More specifically, the background 14 includes the background design 20, which is capable of being viewed within the inside periphery of the main frame 12. The background 14 and the second layer 16 are preferably transparent or semi-transparent and comprise clear plastic, wire mesh, screen, wire cloth or any other material capable of receiving an artistic design. Notably, a viewer should be able to see the background design 20 through the surface of the second layer 16. An artist may print a design directly to the background 14 or the second layer 16. A clear plastic or glass protective cover (not illustrated) may attach to the main frame 12 to protect the artwork. Alternatively, an artist may paint the background design 20 to the background 14 or paint the secondary design 22 to the second layer 16. For example, the designs 20, 22 may applied by means of silk screening. Of course, other techniques of printing known in the art may be used to impart the designs 20, 22 to the background 14 and the second layer 16. In another aspect of the present invention, the secondary design 22 may partially block viewing of the background design 20. Portions of the secondary design 22 may include opaque, translucent or clear designs applied or pasted to the second layer 16 in a collage technique. Aspects of the secondary design 22 may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. A three-dimensional design may extend out from the flush periphery of the main frame 12 or the secondary frame 18. Of course, the secondary design 22 may comprise a two-dimensional painting or a picture in combination with the aforementioned three-dimensional artwork.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 having the background design 20 superimposed by the secondary design 22. The secondary frame 18 is smaller than the main frame 12 as generally shown in FIG. 2. The smaller secondary frame 18 has three primary functions. First, the secondary frame 18 is used to stretch the second layer 16 within the interior of the main frame 12. FIG. 4 best illustrates a portion of the second layer 16 wedged between the interior of the main frame 12 and the external periphery of the secondary frame 18. Second, the secondary frame 18 may serve as a lining for the main frame 12. That is, the secondary frame 18 may provide contrast or further coloration to the inline of the main frame 12. Third, the secondary frame 18 may artistically complement any artwork applied to the main frame 12. In this regard, the artist may endeavor to apply further artwork, such as paint, directly to either the main frame 12 or the secondary frame 18. Thus, the secondary frame 18 complements the design on the main frame 12.

In one embodiment, the secondary frame 18 is specifically sized and constructed so that the outer perimeter thereof fits into the inside perimeter of the main frame 12. There should be enough room to snuggly fit the width of the second layer 16 between the outer perimeter of the secondary frame 18 and the interior perimeter of the main frame 12, as best shown in FIG. 4. The main frame 12 may further include an indentation wherein a portion of the second layer 16 remains wedged therein relative to the secondary frame 18. This ensures consistency and placement of the second layer 16 as mounted between the main frame 12 and the secondary frame 18. Thus, when fully assembled, as shown in FIG. 2, the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 produces a multi-layer work of art that appears to be three-dimensional to a viewer due to the offset nature of the background 14 relative to the second layer 16.

In accordance with the present invention, the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 has nearly endless potential in the application of producing three-dimensional graphic illustrations. That is, the artist and/or publisher is presented with great possibilities and multiple combinations of layers within one frame. Accordingly, the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 may include a plurality of original paintings or photographs, an original painting or photograph and a reproduction of a painting or photograph, or multiple reproductions. The important aspect is that the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 include multiple image layers offset from one another to produce a three-dimensional effect when viewed. It is particularly preferred that the images on these layers complement one another within a particular scene.

Moreover, the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 has a plurality of advantages in respect to appearance and functionality over the prior art. For example, the overall image appears to be three-dimensional, which facilitates unlimited freedom for expression in a new-style art form. Accordingly, the technique for producing the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 disclosed herein enables artists to make new art. In turn, the art market will be more diverse and ultimately the consuming public has a greater availability and range of art products from which to choose. The multi-layer graphic illustration also enhances the diversity and artistic expression available. Lastly, the present invention eliminates the use and expense of additional framing. The inclusion and integration of the frames, specifically the main frame 12 and the secondary frame 18 with respect to FIGS. 1-4, enable an artist to eliminate the additional expense of framing the painting. Moreover, the frames may actually be designed and integrated into the overall artwork. For example, the main frame 12 may be a simple standard frame available in the market, a decorative frame that complements the artwork, or an elaborate design that becomes part of the artwork itself.

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, the background 14 is fastened to the main frame 12, as described above. Again, the second layer 16 is mounted within the interior of the main frame 12 by use of the secondary frame 18. Accordingly, the second layer 16, once positioned within the interior of the main frame 12, is offset from the background 14. FIG. 5 further illustrates the addition of the second layer 16′ as coupled between the main frame 12 and a secondary frame 18′. The second layer 16′ and the secondary frame 18′ are positioned within and coupled to the main frame 12 in the same manner as are the second layer 16 and the secondary frame 18. FIG. 6 illustrates the combination of the background design 20, the secondary design 22 and a secondary design 22′ all within the main frame 12. As shown, and most preferable in the present invention, the second layers 16, 16′ are at least partially transparent or substantially transparent to enable a user to view each design 20, 22, 22′ placed within the main frame 12. In this embodiment, the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 advantageously combines the features of the two-dimensional background 14 and the secondary layers 16, 16′ (as paintings, photographs, etc.) utilizing one or more semi-transparent or fully transparent sheets having the designs 20, 22, 22′ thereon. In turn, the multi-layer graphic illustration produces a three-dimensional effect when viewed.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 7, and more particularly FIG. 8, illustrates the positioning of the secondary frames 18, 18′ within the interior of the main frame 12. Accordingly, the second layers 16, 16′ are wedged between the main frame 12 and the respective secondary frames 18, 18′. The secondary frames 18, 18′ fit inside the main frame 12 to offset the second layers 16, 16′ from one another and to offset the second layers 16, 16′ from the background 14. The artist may endeavor to vary the distance between the background 14 and the second layer 16, between the second layer 16 and second layer 16′, or between the second layer 16′ and any other additional second layer placed within the interior of the main frame 12. Ultimately, the relative distances between each of the images is optional and depends on the desirable effect and the overall composition of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10. The combination of the background 14 with the second layers 16, 16′ accumulatively creates the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 which, to the viewer, appears to be three-dimensional. Accordingly, the addition of multiple second layers 16 enhances the depth and ultimately the three-dimensional effect of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10.

FIGS. 9-12 illustrate another alternative embodiment of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 in accordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, the main frame 12 includes a plurality of dowels 24 positioned therein and engageable with the secondary frame 18. The dowels 24 enable the artist to offset the secondary frame 18 from the main frame 12. The concept of producing the three-dimensional effect in this embodiment is similar to the aforementioned embodiments. That is, the background 14 is fastened to the backside of the main frame 12, opposite the dowels 24. Preferably, the second layer 16 attaches to the secondary frame 18 in a manner similar as the background 14 is fastened to the main frame 12. The layering of the background 14, the main frame 12, the second layer 16 and the secondary frame 18 is best shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 10 illustrates the background design 20 of the background 14 as fastened to the main frame 12 and visible through the second layer 16 having the secondary design 22 thereon. The dowels 24 offset the main frame 12 from the secondary frame 18 to produce such a three-dimensional effect between the background 14 and the second layer 16. As best shown in FIGS. 11-12, a gap 26 resides between the main frame 12 and the secondary frame 18. The gap 26 enables light to enter between the background 14 and the second layer 16 such that the artist may produce further visual effects with lighting or other projections in combination with the designs 20, 22. Accordingly, FIG. 12 more specifically illustrates the positioning of the main frame 12 offset from the secondary frame 18 by the dowel 24. The background 14, as attached to the main frame 12, is shown offset from the second layer 16, as attached to the secondary frame 18. Moreover, a protective cover (not illustrated) may also be attached to the secondary frame 18 for protection thereof.

The multi-layer graphic illustration 10 opens a new approach to imagery and painting, in general. That is, an artist may manipulate the images of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 to produce various visual effects. For example, the artist may design the multi-layer graphic illustration to have the image change as the angle of the viewer changes. Artists also may now present a new form of art to clients where the frame is part of the actual artwork and therefore eliminates any need to purchase and/or replace the frame after the painting is purchased. The multi-layer graphic illustration 10 may also have application as a window screen or a standing sculpture. The multi-layer graphic illustration 10 can also be manufactured inexpensively because of the use of minimal parts, simplicity and ease of assembly.

A person of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the above-described aspects of the multi-layer graphic illustration 10 are merely an exemplification of the preferred embodiments. Many other variations are possible. The main frame 12 may have many different configurations and may be constructed of many different types of moldings and materials. For example, the main frame 12 and/or the secondary frame 18 may be manufactured from a transparent, translucent or highly decorative material. Alternatively, the main frame 12 and the corresponding secondary frame 18 may be manufactured from any size, shape or form as long as the combination of the frames 12, 18 are capable of retaining a plurality of images therein offset relative to one another to produce the three-dimensional effect described herein. In another example, the background 14 could be made as a collage or raised, three-dimensional artwork, and may protrude through the second layer 16, or other multiple layers disposed within the main frame 12.

In another alternative aspect of the present invention, the second layer 16 could be flat, but made from materials other than screen or mesh. Other artistic materials or images may be suspended from the second layer 16 or the background 14 such that these artistic pieces appear to float in space. Also, the second layer 16 may be bands of canvas, or any other artistic materials, that partially cover or partially reveal the background 14, or any other layer disposed within the main frame 12.

Although several embodiments have been described in detail for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made to each without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited, except as by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A multi-layer graphic illustration, comprising:

a first frame;

a second frame associated with the first frame;

a background image fastened to the first frame; and

a foreground image coupled to the second frame and offset from the background image to produce a three-dimensional image effect.

2. The graphic illustration of claim 1, wherein the foreground image is complementary to and substantially planar with the background image.

3. The graphic illustration of claim 1, wherein the second frame couples to the inside of the first frame by friction fit or snap-tight fit.

4. The graphic illustration of claim 3, wherein foreground image is disposed between the second frame and the first frame.

5. The graphic illustration of claim 1, including a gap between the first frame and the second frame.

6. The graphic illustration of claim 5, comprising a plurality of spacers for offsetting the first frame from the second frame to produce the gap.

7. The graphic illustration of claim 1, wherein the background image mechanically or adhesively fastens to the first frame.

8. The graphic illustration of claim 1, wherein the background image and the foreground image are substantially two-dimensional.

9. The graphic illustration of claim 1, including a supplemental image coupled to the first frame and complementary to and offset from the background image and the foreground image.

10. The graphic illustration of claim 1, wherein a portion of the background image, the foreground image or the supplemental image is substantially transparent.

11. The graphic illustration of claim 1, wherein the background image or the foreground image comprise a painting or a photograph.

12. The graphic illustration of claim 1, including a substantially transparent protective cover associated with the frames.

13. The graphic illustration of claim 12, wherein the protective cover comprises glass or plastic.

14. A multi-layer graphic illustration, comprising:

a first frame;

a second frame associated with the first frame;

a gap between the first frame and the second frame;

a background image fastened to the first frame; and

a foreground image disposed between the first frame and the second frame and being complementary to, substantially planar with, and offset from the background image to produce a three-dimensional image effect, wherein the background image or the foreground image comprise a painting or a photograph.

15. The graphic illustration of claim 14, comprising a plurality of spacers for offsetting the first frame from the second frame to produce the gap.

16. The graphic illustration of claim 14, wherein the background image mechanically or adhesively fastens to the first frame.

17. The graphic illustration of claim 14, wherein the background image and the foreground image are substantially two-dimensional.

18. The graphic illustration of claim 14, including a supplemental image coupled to the first frame and complementary to and offset from the background image and the foreground image.

19. The graphic illustration of claim 18, wherein a portion of the background image, the foreground image or the supplemental image is substantially transparent.

20. The graphic illustration of claim 14, including a substantially transparent protective cover associated with the frames, wherein the protective cover comprises glass or plastic.