I recently had the opportunity of joining a few PPFA framers in a walk through the American wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Suzanne Smeaton, the keynote speaker and educator at our 2013 PPFA National Convention, enthusiastically showed us some of her favorites in the Museum. Suzanne worked for Eli Wilner, the shop that created the new frame for Emanuel Leutze’s Washington Crossing the Delaware. She oversaw the making of the new 3,000 pound hand carved, gilded frame. Below are a few photos of the Leutze piece. A very interesting short video appeared on CBS Sunday Morning explaining the amazing framing job.
Category: Art
Memorial Day
Richard Bollinger is one of Whispering Woods Gallery’s favorite local artists. We have sold his artwork from the first days of our shop in 1987. Each piece is unique and has significance. For Memorial Day, I would like to share a print of Rick’s called ” Memorial Day.”
$90, signed, limited edition.
It’s spring time in Chester County. The fresh fragrance of new life is in the air. A bold palette of bright colors has washed over winter’s stark canvas. Rich tones of green and vibrant yellows punctuate the land in every direction. In this painting, watercolorist Richard Bollinger captures the dramatic shadows that are cast over a flowering hillside.
The morning breeze stirs the limbs of a century old oak and begins to move and gently unfurl our nation’s banner. The stars and stripes that are so familiar to this Pennsylvania landscape, today, take on a much greater significance. It has been raised this day to honor the countless men and women who have served this nation and have paid the ultimate price. It’s Memorial Day. Soon, warmer days will arrive and the activities of summer will take center stage. But this day, Memorial Day, we pause and reflect … we remember … and we are grateful!
So many different frames!
At the West Coast Art and Frame Show there are thousands of unique moulding styles for us to view. It’s like picking out treats from the candy store without the calories!
Made in the USA
Recently some framers had a discussion about which products in our industry are made in the USA. I knew that some of our moulding was made here, but I did not realize how many other products in our shop are also from the USA.
Here’s a few: Our glass, acrylic, Framerica moulding, Nielsen moulding, Vermont Hardwoods moulding, Laville moulding, some Larson Juhl moulding, most of our flag cases, most of our matboard, some Kodak photo papers, wood glue, mounting adhesives, glass cleaner, and most of the art that we carry.
Although we can’t change the economy in one day, it’s something that you might consider the next time that you make a home decor purchase. When you visit our shop, ask and we will certainly help you pick products made in the USA.
The Touch of the Master’s Hand
Leanna and Mary came to me a few weeks ago wanting a special gift for their beloved pastor and his wife who were leaving the area after many years. They wanted something meaningful yet simple because the recipient’s new home would be on an Indian Reservation. They had a favorite poem, “The Touch of the Master’s Hand” but didn’t know the options.
Leanna and Mary had the perfect idea for a gift and with “The Touch of the Master’s Hand,” it really did turn out perfect! Sorry, I couldn’t pass that by since my title is Master Certified Picture Framer… First we gave Leanna and Mary several layouts of the poem and after a few rounds of tweaking it was perfect. Then we picked a lovely tan parchment paper, complimentary matting and a rustic but elegant Larson Juhl frame. Rounded corners cut with our computerized mat cutter made the piece compliment the rounded curves of the violin. When completed the piece truly played a beautiful tune!
Whispering Woods Gallery is collecting items for Deserving Decor
Do you have a stack of unused pictures in your closet, attic or basement? Perhaps you redecorated or downsized and have a few extra decorative items? Whispering Woods Gallery is collecting art and decorative wall items for Deserving Decor on an ongoing basis. Donate your unused art to make a difference in our community. All donations will be used in transitional homeless shelters and for the recently housed throughout Bucks County. For more details call Sue at 215-364-4321.
Deserving Decor is a 501(c)3 tax exempt non-profit. All monetary and furnishing donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law. Deserving Decor does not receive Federal funding and is an all volunteer organization.
Best of Bucks 2012
Whispering Woods Gallery was recently voted “Best of Bucks 2012” in the category of “Art Galleries” from the Bucks County Courier Times. Thanks to all who voted for Whispering Woods Gallery. Next year’s goal will be to capture the “Best Framing Store.” We would really appreciate your vote next year so stay tuned.
Whispering Woods Gallery 