Customer Spotlight: An Interview with Evan Rosenberg

December 7, 2025
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This post is part of our ongoing series highlighting the work, expertise, and creative practices of Metropolitan Picture Framing customers.

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Evan's artistic practice integrates silk as a medium.  The silk artwork emerged from his scientific research at a biotech startup focused on using silk to stabilize biologics. Fascinated by silk’s potential as an artistic material, Rosenberg began exploring its properties, challenges, and creative possibilities by weaving it into three-dimensional forms.

I get the silk harvested from silkworm cocoons. It comes in a large loop, unraveled from silkworm cocoons, called a hank. From here, I pull the strands into smaller bundles of approximately 200 strands of silk. This process is done only pulling a 1-5 strands of silk at a time, Because the silk is still somewhat sticky from the protein seracin that holds the cocoon together, I can't pull out too much at once as it ends up knotting on itself and ruining the hank of silk over time
I get the silk harvested from silkworm cocoons. It comes in a large loop, unraveled from silkworm cocoons, called a hank. From here, I pull the strands into smaller bundles of approximately 200 strands of silk. This process is done only pulling a 1-5 strands of silk at a time, Because the silk is still somewhat sticky from the protein seracin that holds the cocoon together, I can't pull out too much at once as it ends up knotting on itself and ruining the hank of silk over time
From there, I dye the silk using silk acid dyes. As a chemist, I have a very methodical approach to dyeing that involves using a hot plate and beakers so I can best control the dyeing process.
From there, I dye the silk using silk acid dyes. As a chemist, I have a very methodical approach to dyeing that involves using a hot plate and beakers so I can best control the dyeing process.
I'll then build a frame that is 2.5 inches deep, I upholster a burlap-like fabric to the frame which I use as a grid to sew the silk in. From there, each piece of silk is individually tied into the frame, working from the back to front, until a piece is completed.
I'll then build a frame that is 2.5 inches deep, I upholster a burlap-like fabric to the frame which I use as a grid to sew the silk in. From there, each piece of silk is individually tied into the frame, working from the back to front, until a piece is completed.

How have you set up your studio for framing? Any tips for other artists?

I have a big 4x4 table that I use to frame on. Typically I put something soft on the table, like a large piece of cardboard (usually the one that comes with the frame) as to protect it better. I have an air gun and vacuum system to remove dust from the glass.
I have a big 4x4 table that I use to frame on. Typically I put something soft on the table, like a large piece of cardboard (usually the one that comes with the frame) as to protect it better. I have an air gun and vacuum system to remove dust from the glass.

What led you to start using Metropolitan frames?

I realized quickly that I'd need to frame these pieces as dust is their mortal enemy (everything is black and every piece of dust can be seen). I was searching for a frame, and came across Metroframe's website. Adrienne has been helping me from the start, and guided me to the proper wood and finish on the frames.

I started with Maple, but realized the frames scratched very easily because of the hard wood and finish. Adrienne recommended I try poplar, as it's lighter and softer, making it perfect for my pieces. I tend to either order white or black finished frames.

The first frame I ever ordered was cut-to-size with wedges, the instructional videos were straightforward and made it easy to construct. Nowadays, I order joined frames as I like the cleaner finish.

Do you order online or on the phone?

I order on the phone and talk to Adrienne. She has been incredibly helpful, and it's been amazing to have the same person working with me for the past 7 years.

How do you price your work?

I price based on size and style, since some of my styles take less time I don’t like to price them all the same by size. For example my perspective pieces take a lot longer than the grounding lines pieces.

How do you market your work? 

Most of my sales come from Instagram. I have leveraged social media heavily to sell my work. I try to post as consistently as possible, and doing so has allowed me to amass a large following. My work has been seen by millions of people at this point, so it helps tremendously with selling work. When I get an inquiry, I respond as soon as possible, and make sure I provide a very personal experience for the client. Reels do the best for outreach, and instagram has started leveraging what they call Trial Reels, which shows to people that do not follow you. This is a great way to get exposure! 

I am currently working with Zach Frank & Co gallery in Buffalo.  I drove all of the work up in my car and hand delivered it, but I have shipped pieces all over the world. I leveraged the way that Metroframe packs the frame when they ship it to me to safely ship work.

Any other advice you think artists would appreciate about your practice?

My practice is very much a practice, a commitment. As I'm not yet a full time artist, I think the biggest advice I can give is to always try to make a little progress on a piece every day (or almost every day). Working full time plus making time consuming art is the hardest thing I've done, and sticking to it, even if I can only put in 30 minutes, has allowed me to continue to grow and develop my practice.

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www.evanmrosenberg.com     Instagram: @evan.m.rosenberg

Posted in Career advice for artists, Featured Artists, Framing Advice