OK... I did the change on the "Lines" photo, but instead fo changing it to a B&W, I did a color negative of it and REALLY like the result. You can pick up the subtle hues of "life circles" and MUCH more detail in the lines themselves.
This is the finished "angle" shot with a plain matte border and I do agree, borders do add a different subtle change to the photo. Thanks to everyone for their words of advice and constructive criticism...
Regards,
Eric