Celebrating a decade of framing

 

It's hard to believe that it was ten years ago this month that The Framers Room opened its doors on level two, 2 Dowling Street, Dunedin.

Manager since the business’ inception has been Guild Commended Framer Catherine Garrett. The framing business, which operates under the same umbrella as ‘The Artist’s Room’ art gallery (also situated within the Commerce Building on level one) —has grown with the demandsof their clients and customers. A framer for nearly 20 years now, Cath’s GCF qualification is gained from the Fine Art Trade Guild in the United Kingdom.

‘‘There has been many changes in the art industry as a whole’’, Catherine says. ‘‘Clients expectations regarding what can be framed or what in the past may not have been considered for framing is now very different. I’ve been asked to frame anything from a seatbelt, a pick axe — even a Barbie doll — anything and everything through to a work of fine art’’.

The team upstairs at The Framer’s Room also includes Cath’s fellow artist Rebecca Cameron. Rebecca, as well as being apart-time framer and artist in her own right, is also a qualified paper conservator. Having conservation and framing all under the one roof has certainly been beneficial to the range of services we can provide to the general public and artists alike. Rebecca can ‘treat’ a wide variety of mostly paper-based issues including tears, stains and creases on watercolours, documents, drawings, prints, letters and more. Conservation treatment can enhance and restore their appearance and help long-term preservation.

Cath in particular has a passion for framing three-dimensional objects. Being artistically inclined, and an artist herself has assisted her in her abilities to frame much more than the usual photograph, poster, painting or fine art print. ‘‘We also frame items including rugby jerseys, sports and music memorabilia, medals, antique clothing items and family heirlooms, which have included a slingshot and a Victorian lace collar’’. Cath says that ‘‘some things are definitely more of a challenge, but we try our best to find a way to satisfy the client’s needs. It really doesn’t matter if the item is worth $10 or $100,000 — it’s still someone’s treasure’’.

Works of art and other items can be framed to full conservation levels using materials that will protect them for years to come. This includes archival cotton mats and backing boards plus glassthat protects from UV damage. ‘‘It’s better to spend some money now getting the framing right, not only for aesthetic reasons, but also for the longevity of the artwork itself’’.

The Framers Room works alongside many artist —not only local, but those that send their works from all over New Zealand, and who are represented by The Artist’s Room. They also have great relationships with both the Otago Polytechnic School of Fine Art and the Otago Art Society.

Cath points out that ‘‘no question is stupid’’ when it comes to enquiries regarding framing and conservation. ‘‘We give obligation free advice’’.

The Framers Room has a Facebook page and an Instagram account which Cath updates frequently to allow followers to see what her team have been framing and what special monthly offers they are currently promoting.

To celebrate their 10th anniversary The Framers Room are running a Facebook promotion which includes give aways such as a beautiful ornate mirror and framing vouchers. (Go to The Framers Room Facebook page for further details).