The WSA goal is to achieve a homogeneous watercolor exhibition; a collection of art to be enhanced and illuminated in a museum setting.  Framing must not detract from our goal to focus attention on the artwork in itself.  However, to make framing less restrictive and still meet our goal, the requirement has been modified to read:  “Wood frame:  simple wood tones or painted gold, silver, or black (without ornate ornamentation)”.

For further clarification, see  Examples of Frames,  Simple (allowed) and Ornate ornamentation (not allowed)