Ask Gallery One

The high cost of improper custom framing!

2009-10-30T14:58:00.015-04:00

You, too, can be a picture framer. It is one of the easiest professions to enter. You can find an inexpensive storefront...or take a position with a national chain. You can handle expensive art and cherished memorabilia for clients with minimal training and experience...and you might even get away with your lack of competency...for a time.

Here is an edited version of recent e-correspondence. Perhaps when you read it, you will understand why the Gallery One staff is insistent that clients work exclusively with CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMERS (they exist throughout the country) for the good of their valuables.

Email to Gallery One
I am interested in the price of Stephen Lyman's "Evening Light," released in 1990. Thanks

Email from Gallery One
The print should retail for about $4500 - MINT, NEVER FRAMED. Thanks. Alan

Email to Gallery One
I inquired because I just bought a such a Lyman print at _____________(name withheld). It was framed back in 2007 and the person (they said) never came to pick it up. I gave them $150 for the print. Did I get a good buy? Thanks.

Email from Gallery One
You may have gotten a great buy depending upon how the print was framed and its present condition. Is it floated behind the mat? Or taped? If it was not framed according to conservation requirements, it may be worth very little. Alan

Email to Gallery One
Thanks again, Alan. I understand the print was dry-mounted. Does that affect the price?

Email from Gallery One
Yes, it devalues the work significantly. Your signed and numbered, limited edition print was treated the way a $20 poster should be treated. It is like taking a mint condition stamp, licking it, and putting it on a letter. Shame on the custom framer. In any event, at $150, you have a bargain. But it will never be worth $4500. Perhaps the original owner discovered that the framer was incompetent and made a financial settlement.

Email to Gallery One
Thanks very much for your time. I will definitely look you up when I make future purchases.

That's all for now!
Norah Lynne Brown

Thom Does Gallery One!

2009-10-29T14:57:00.031-04:00

Well, it has taken our staff nearly two weeks to come down from our Kinkade Event "high."

Thom's long-anticipated Gallery One visit on October 17 flew by...leaving images of devoted fans and new collectors mixed in with Kinkade books, canvases and even a prized original drawing that was auctioned off to a lucky collector. It was a great weekend.

The new (the start of a series) Christmas Chapel I "O Come All Ye Faithful" was among the show's best sellers. It was unveiled before a packed house during Thom's lecture. You could hear the "oohs" and "aahs" blocks away.

We thank you all for your kind notes and emails telling us how much you enjoyed the event. We'll try to answer all of you. In the meantime, click the big square Kinkade button on home page for pictures of the event.

A special heartfelt thank you to the fabulous Kinkade staff that accompanied Thom to Mentor: Rick Barnett, Jason McCall and Rhonda Bunch.

NOW, here is some trivia for Kinkade buffs:

Thom has placed a total of 25 N’s in Christmas Chapel I, O Come All Ye Faithful in tribute to his wife Nanette, as well as in celebration for his 25 years as a published artist.

Did you know that the top five selling CHAPEL images of all time are 1) Mountain Chapel, 2) Forest Chapel, 3) Streams of Living Water, 4) Sunday Evening Sleigh Ride and 5) Dogwood Chapel?

Did you know that the top five selling CHRISTMAS scenes of all time are 1) Holiday Gathering, 2) Village Christmas, 3) Blessings of Christmas, 4) Sunday Evening Sleigh Ride and 5) Lights of Liberty?

In this work, Thom features a new technique called “the radiant palette,” where he intensifies the mid range. This makes the glow more intense and radiant than ever, while the shadows grow darker.

Christmas Chapel I, O Come All Ye Faithful features a country church — with an old-fashioned celebration of Christmas in the country — an intimate gathering of family and friends on Christmas Eve.

This is a classic timeless image of Christmas. Thom’s favorite part is the ragged cross on the steeple. He wanted to portray the light of hope that we can have during Christmas. The cross is a symbol of hope.

Christmas Chapel I, O Come All Ye Faithful is a celebration of details, with a Christmas Eve service in progress — the log building glowing with light pouring out. We can tell that people are inside celebrating, with a fire to keep them warm, maybe even singing the hymn, “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

That's all for now.

Norah Lynne Brown

Thomas Kinkade appears at Gallery One - Sweetest Day, October 17

2009-08-26T16:20:00.016-04:00

At age 51, Thomas Kinkade is an American art icon. His works are collected world-wide and his trademark cottages and floral landscapes have been staples of the American art lover for 25 years. Now, as he celebrates a quarter century of fine art, he is conducting a whirlwind six gallery tour that will bring him and his popular wife Nanette to meet fans - right here at Gallery One - on Saturday morning, October 17.

The festivities will actually begin Friday evening at 6-9 p.m. with a wine and cheese preview of Thom’s latest works and an hour-long informal art lecture by noted art educator, Felicia Zavarella Stadelman. Her topic: comparing the lives and works of America’s best-loved art icons - Norman Rockwell and Thomas Kinkade.

Following the lecture, Gallery One visitors can enjoy a big screen version of “Thomas Kinkade - An American Artist,” a 60-minute biographical video...and preview Thom's latest works...all while munching some snacks and enjoying some wine.

Saturday morning, Gallery One will open at 9 A.M. That's early for us, but we need time for visitors who qualify for tickets to Thom’s 10:30-11 a.m. lecture to pick up their passes and enjoy refreshments and the largest display of Kinkade images east of the Mississippi. Thom’s lecture will feature the auction of a rare Kinkade original drawing that attendees will watch him create.

Following the lecture, Thom will personally sign qualifying works of art and Thom and Nanette will meet and greet the hundreds of fans that are expected to pour in - rain or shine.

Purchasers of Kinkade limited-edition canvases are eligible, time permitting, to have their canvases enhanced by a renown Kinkade master highlighter whose Thanksgiving weekend appearance at Gallery One is an annual event. The highlighting, based on personal instructions from Kinkade, further enhances the Kinkade canvases, allowing them to explode with dimension, color and texture. Special Kinkade certificates authenticate each highlighted canvas. Reservations are required for highlighting appointments.

Keep an eye on our website for more information. And plan to visit us during Thom's appearance if you can. Incidentally, if you are one of our collectors over the web and cannot attend Thom's event, we can have your qualifying purchase hand-signed by Thom...and even make an appointment to have your are enhanced by our Kinkade Master Highlighter.

All this is TIME PERMITTING...so make your selections NOW!

That's all for now.

Norah Lynne

Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery opens at Gallery One

2009-05-04T10:59:00.017-04:00

They say that Thomas Kinkade is America's most collected living artist. Whether you like his work or not, it is for sure that you know his name and recognize his images when you see them. Coming from a modest background, Kinkade has made a career of emphasizing simple pleasures and life-affirming values through his art. And whether his work is your cup of tea or not, you certainly can appreciate his talents for art and for art marketing.

While some artists are understandably resentful of his presence on the art scene, others are grateful that he has made collecting art and decorating with art comfortable and easy for both the sophisticated collector and the new collector. That new collector often finds an easy comfort in Kinkade's images of idyllic scenes and down to earth values. From there, some new collectors become obsessed with Thom's works. Others, having made their first forays into the art world, gain the confidence to purchase the works of other talented painters.

So I say hip, hip, hooray for Mr. Kinkade. And it is with our appreciation to him for his fine works that we now dedicate close to 2000 square feet of our 18,000 square feet to Thom and his canvas and paper prints. (Additional space has been reserved for Kinkade framing and frame warehousing.) And we say thank you to Thom and his great staff for proclaiming that we are now an official Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery.

Why is that important to collectors? Now, as the largest Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery east of the Mississippi, Gallery One now offers Plein Airs, Robert Girrards, Brushworks, Classics, Inspirationals, Miniatures, Bronzes, Disney Dreams, Indy 500s, Nascars, Cafe Collection, Nightlights, Impressions of Israel PLUS Examination Proofs, Gallery Proofs, Publisher’s Proofs, Renaissance Editions, Studio Proofs and more.

We hope you will visit us soon...in person or on the web...to shop for works by Thom and by our other outstanding artists.

As always, we want to be your favorite place to shop for art. Forever!

That's all for now.

Norah Lynne

Answering your questions...

2009-04-03T17:42:00.026-04:00

Dear Gallery One: How can you call a print an original? Aren't all prints just reproductions? JP, UTAH

Dear JP:

We get lots of questions about how prints are made and why we sometimes refer to a print as an original. It is easy to understand the word "original" when speaking of paintings, pencil drawings, pen and inks, acrylics, watercolors, etc. Here the artist has created ONE work of art with his own hand. The surface might be paper or canvas or even masonite. I like to call these SINGULAR ORIGINALS.

A bit more complicated are MULTIPLE ORIGINALS....commonly called ORIGINAL PRINTS. Traditionally, the artist creates a master image for the purpose of making a small number of prints that he might sign and number. The master image could be created upon a block, stone, plate or screen — any of which assists in conveying the image to the print surface.

Here are examples:

SERIGRAPHY or SILKSCREEN: A stencil is prepared (usually upon a silk or polyester surface) and ink is forced through openings in order to produce the desired image. For some complicated prints, dozens of screens might be used to produce the desired colors. (Image at left is a Charles Harper serigraph or silkscreen.)

ETCHING: A technique for making prints in which the artist works upon a metal plate that has been covered with an acid-resistant material through which he develops his design by exposing portions of the metal plate. This prepared plate is then immersed in an acid bath; the acid eats through the plate where the acid-resistant material has been removed; the plate is then removed from the acid bath and cleaned leaving an incised plate with lines that can hold ink for transfer to paper. (Etchings are often hand-colored.)

RELIEF PRINTING: A block or plate is cut out so the desired image stands in relief. That projecting block or plate is inked and it is used like a stamp to transfer the image onto paper or another substrate. (You probably made your own relief prints in kindergarten using a potato.)

LITHOGRAPHY: The artist draws his design upon a plate or stone which is moistened with water. Ink is then applied and paper is pressed on to the surface to pick up the design. Modern adaptation includes the use of mylar to replace the plate or stone. (The printed image will be in one color. A "colored" lithograph is prepared by the artist using multiple plates or stones...or by hand coloring the print.) (Image at left is an original lithograph by Edna Hibel.)

The blocks, plates, stones and screens cannot be considered originals. They are just vehicles to produce ORIGINAL PRINTS. And you can appreciate the individuality of the original prints...especially when they have been hand-colored or produced with multiple plates, stones or screens.

You'll find original prints at www.galleryone.com by Bateman, Brenders, Christensen, Doolittle, Hibel and others. When we have finished refining our website, you'll be able to search for them all by typing "lithograph," for example, into our search box.

Then there are REPRODUCTIVE PRINTS. The artist produces an original work...and photographic technology and automated printing equipment create reproductions of that original. Fine art print reproductions are often signed and numbered in limited editions.

In any case, care should be exercised so that prints remain in mint condition for maximum value and enjoyment.

A similar, but much advanced process, creates giclées — the state of the art prints now taking the art collecting world to a whole new level. We get lots of questions about giclees. How to pronounce the word? And what does it mean? We will cover this in a later blog.

That's all for now.
Norah Lynne

PS....Email us at art@galleryone.com with your questions and/or comments. We'll try to address them all either in the blog or person-to-person.

All About Masterworks in Miniature 2009

2009-03-05T12:12:00.045-05:00

Our famed annual Masterworks in Miniature runs March 6 - March 21. Now in its 18th big year, the international art event features original works by Robert Bateman, Alan Bean, Carl Brenders, James Christensen, Guy Coheleach, Bev Doolittle, Scott Gustafson, Edna Hibel, Terry Isaac, Dean Morrissey, Liz Lemon Swindle, Charles Wysocki and others — to name-drop a few. Most works will be priced from $350 to $5000. Appropriate custom framing is included.

An especially “out of this world” image is the work of astronaut/artist Alan Bean whose image “One Lucky Guy” was created with the use of “lunar tools” and remnants of moon dust.

Each miniature is equally special and demand dictates that prospective buyers from throughout the world submit ‘intent-to-purchase’ forms in hopes of ‘being drawn’ to buy their favorites.

All the information is on our website: www.galleryone.com

Intents can be filed by mail or over the web where the entire collection can be viewed. Of course the miniatures are all on display at Gallery One in Mentor OH.

While some Masterworks will fit in the palm of one's hand, others are as large as 9" x 12." A rare few may be a bit larger. Regardless of size, all are exquisitely detailed and represent the high quality expected of the individual artists. Genres include wildlife, portraits, still life, landscape, abstract and fantasy.

Just for fun...here are some facts about Masterworks 2009!

1. Four of the artists have not signed their images. They forgot! After Masterworks, these works will be returned to the artists for signatures. (You may be able to spot these on our website...or if you tour the exhibition in person!)

2. The average price of a Masterworks is $1700.

3. The lowest priced Masterwork is $275.

4. Sixty-two Masterworks are under $1000.
5. Ninety-two Masterworks are under $1500.
6. Brochure price is wrong on Alan Bean’s “One Lucky Guy.”

Correct price is $16925

A new feature of Masterworks is a collection of Masterworks EXTRAS....more than 100 works that can be purchased now without waiting for the drawing.

Hope you'll visit us on the web...or in person. You'll love this event...the biggest little show in the world!

That's all for now.

Norah Lynne Brown

Understanding our rating system:

2009-02-18T06:47:00.010-05:00

GUIDE to PRINT CONDITION for www.artauction.galleryone.com AUCTION BIDDERS

Before posting prints on artauction.galleryone.com, our curators examine each item (front, back, image and margins) and assign a rating. (And I have to tell you, our eagle-eyed curators are the strictest in the business.)

Prints are sorted into FOUR categories: MINT, NEARLY MINT, AS IS and UNSALEABLE.

MINT ITEMS ARE PERFECT. No blemishes. No discolorations. These prints and posters look as though they are being offered for sale for the first time...despite their ages. (Some are 35 years old!)

NEARLY MINT ITEMS WILL LOOK MINT WHEN FRAMED. For example, a poster might have some slight handling marks (usually from the artist signing process)...but those will vanish when the poster (as is traditional) is dry-mounted during the framing process. A print might have a slightly bent corner, but when matted, it will look mint. The image of a NEARLY MINT item will look brand new after appropriate framing. And, in fact, many conservators would have categorized these items as mint!

AS IS ITEMS SHOW WEAR AND TEAR. These blemishes may not be visible after appropriate framing. Some of the wear and tear is directly related to the age of the item. Other wear and tear may have occurred during transit or storage. Examples:

Acid burns from storage in or with acidic materials including envelopes, printed information (like COAs)
(if burns are confined to back of print or to margin areas, such may not be visible after framing)
Evidence of handling in the form of impressions in the paper
(most such impressions can be minimized by our staff...and may not be visible when print is framed.
Evidence of hinging with water soluble paste.

NOTE: We see the “as is” category most often when examining prints that were purchased and stored improperly by a collector. Back in the late 1970s and early 1980s when collecting limited editions first became popular, you could purchase prints by emerging artists (like Bateman and Doolittle) for $100 to $250. If your print was framed with acid-free materials by a knowledgeable framer...and hung appropriately...chances are good that your print is still in excellent condition.

If you stowed your print long-term...in its acidic envelope...or left your acidic sales receipt against the print...or stored your print where it was subject to temperature extremes and/or to uncontrolled humidity...or if you handled your print improperly...you probably have an “as is” print today. Many of those early prints are now sought after by collectors who will pay thousands of dollars for a mint print. ...and less for one in poor condition!

UNSALEABLE ITEMS ARE RETURNED TO THE OWNER OR DISCARDED. Owner should consult a restorations expert. Examples:

Severe acid burns that intrude into the image.
Suspected mold or mildew.
Noticeable printer flaws in the image.
Noticeable creases in the image.
Soiled items.
Image is faded or discolored.
Item previously framed — not in accordance with Gallery One’s conservation standards.
Noticeable damage from moisture.
Image is torn or punctured.
Item has been permanently affixed to a backing (i.e. glued or dry-mounted).
Margin has been trimmed or torn.

LONG-TERM STORAGE SUGGESTIONS:
We suggest that long-term storage be handled by placing each print separately between two full sheets of 100% white rag board. Envelopes and other paperwork should be stored outside such packaging. Each “board” package should have title, artist and date of purchase written on the outside of the rag board in pencil. You can pay your art gallery to prepare your items thusly for storage.

These “packages” should be stored flat in an area that has controlled heat/air conditioning and humidity until you are ready to frame the items. Or ask your art gallery to store the items for you until you are ready to frame them.

A good resource is www.aic.stanford.edu/library/online/brochures/paper.html

WHY IS CONDITION IMPORTANT?
Let’s say you are interested in a Robert Bateman ground hog. And let’s it was released in an edition of 950...each identical looking and each signed and numbered. And let’s say you have the choice of getting a mint condition Bateman ground hog...or a Bateman ground hog print with a damaged margin. And let’s say you can purchase either one for $200.

Which one would you want?

Now let’s change the situation. Let’s pretend that the mint condition print is $200 and the one with the damaged margin is $100. Which one would you want?

Let’s change the situation again. There are NO ground hog prints for sale in mint condition.

What are you going to do now??????

www.galleryone.com VS www.artauction.galleryone.com

Unless otherwise noted, galleryone.com and Gallery One, Mentor OH sell only mint condition prints. That’s been the Gallery One tradition since 1974!

Our auction site, http://www.artauction.galleryone.com/ sells MINT, NEARLY MINT and AS IS items — all at auction prices. Condition is clearly indicated.

Our auction reserves have taken condition into account.

Visit artauction.galleryone.com and look at each auction item. Click the image for more information. And click again to expand the image. Take a look at the notes about condition. We have calculated our reserve prices to take rarity, availability and condition into account. And you should take these same factors into account when raising your bid.

And if you want to bid, click the BID2BUY button and fill out your bid form...taking condition into account when raising your bid.

That's all for now!
Norah Lynne Brown

All about www.artauction.galleryone.com

2009-01-30T14:56:00.011-05:00

Well, it is finally here! Our very own dedicated ART AUCTION site. And I bet it will be a favorite with new and experienced collectors. I hope you’ll visit our auction site at www.artauction.galleryone.com. But before you do, here are some things that might interest you.

This is a real art auction site...supervised by a REAL live auctioneer... not a sham auction site like most that you will find on the web.

Our auctioneer is Alan Brown, Gallery One president. He has been a licensed auctioneer for nearly 30 years. A graduate of the Mendenhall Auction School and The Certified Auctioneers Institute (University of Indiana), he oversees Gallery One’s auctions in accordance with auction law and the National Auctioneers Code. He is doubly licensed and bonded for your protection. Ohio (#62-93-6363) and Florida (AU2937).

Alan’s auction history is impressive. He has successfully raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for non-profit organizations, officiated at hundreds of Gallery One auctions - live and on the web - and he has successfully auctioned real estate in Ohio and Florida.

For his weekly web auction format, Alan mandated that hundreds of works of art ---- resales, overstocks, as is items and special buys ---- be offered at unbelievably low reserve prices. He expects that even with enthusiastic bidding, great bargains will go to savvy bidders.

After the items were selected for auction, Alan asked our curators to examine and rate each work. (And I have to tell you, our curators are the strictest in the business.)

They were asked to rate each item MINT (perfect), NEARLY MINT or AS IS.

A mint item, according to our curators, looks brand new...front, back and margins.

A nearly mint item will look mint when framed. For example, a poster might have some slight handling marks...but those will vanish when the poster (as is traditional) is dry-mounted during the framing process. A print might have a slightly bent corner, but when matted, it will look mint.

An as-is item will have some blemishes that may (only if you have an eagle eye) be visible after framing.

Reserve prices have taken condition into account. And you should take condition into account when raising your bid.

So take a look at each auction item. Click the image for more information. And click again to expand the image. And if you want to bid, click the BID2BUY button and fill out your bid form.

I think you’re going to like our new site....but please let us hear from you with your questions, comments and suggestions.

That's all for now.

Norah Lynne Brown, VP

Remembering Andrew Wyeth

2009-01-17T10:12:00.008-05:00

Andrew Wyeth, the renowned American painter, died January 16, 2009. The photo at left shows the famed artist with President Bush as he receives the 2007 National Medal of Arts.

The art community is mourning the death of a legend.

Andrew Newell Wyeth (born July 12, 1917)was primarily a realist painter. He was sometimes referred to as the "Painter of the People," due to his work's popularity with an adoring American public.

He was the son of the illustrator and artist N. C. Wyeth, the brother of inventor Nathaniel Wyeth and artist Henriette Wyeth (Peter) Hurd and the father of artist Jamie Wyeth and Nicholas Wyeth.

Wyeth's favorite subjects were the land and people around him - both in his hometown of Chadds Ford PA and at his summer home in Cushing ME.

One of the most well-known images in 20th Century American art is his painting, Christina's World, currently in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

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The 2009 State of the Art!

2009-01-01T10:25:00.018-05:00

I guess we are all glad to see 2008 come to an end. We learned a lot. We suffered over the economy, politics, the economy, the weather, the economy, global warming and, O YES, THE ECONOMY. Question is...what does this mean for art collectors?

Over the past few weeks, we are seeing some really optimistic signs. Of course, we can only speak for Gallery One....our receipts, our collectors and our artists. But what we see is really encouraging.

Older collectors who are down-sizing their homes...and their collections
...are happy to sell off artwork at great prices, so we really have our
pick of classic images that have been unavailable for years. Artists
are eager to provide great pricing and quality levels that insure rapid
sales. And Gallery One has taken a sharp pencil and a sharp eye to all
pricing...because, as you know, we will never be undersold. And, in fact,
we have always led the way when it comes to fair pricing and MINT art. And both artists and Gallery One are more liberal than ever relative to layaways, for example.

THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY!

JUST A FEW WORDS OF CAUTION! Don't wait too long to buy. As the economy turns around, we expect art prices to rise.

From the entire Gallery One staff, we wish you a happy, healthy and
prosperous 2009.

That's all for now.

Norah Lynne

P.S. Don't miss the BIG AFTER CHRISTMAS SALE AT www.galleryone.com!

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Remembering Greg Clair

2009-01-10T10:07:00.006-05:00

Last evening we learned of the passing of another friend, noted wildlife artist, Gregory Clair, who died January 8, 2009 in Scottsdale AZ. He was 54. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.

Gregory Clair`s experience in the outdoors began early as he accompanied his father hunting upland birds in Ohio and Michigan. Greg later studied and painted wildlife, entering his first art competition in 1989...the 1990 Ohio Wetlands Stamp Contest. He was a semifinalist.

The next year he won the Ohio contest. Over the next 17 years, he received many honors and worked with and donated to Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, National Wild Turkey Federation, Quail Unlimited, Ruffed Grouse Society and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. His base was Bowling Green OH and later, Scottsdale.

"Whenever I am in the out-of-doors I am awed at the diversity and intricacy of God`s magnificent creation," he said. "I hope to evoke similar emotions in those who view my art."

Among Greg's accomplishments:
1991 Ohio Duck Stamp winner
1999 Ohio Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Artist
2002 Ohio Ducks Unlimited Artist of the Year
2004 Federal Duck Stamp Contest, fourth place
2005 Ohio Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Artist
2006 Ohio Duck Stamp winner
2006 Ohio Magazine's Ohioan of the Month
2007 Ohio Ducks Unlimited Artist of the Year
2007 Ohio Ducks Unlimited Sponsor Artist
2007 Buckmasters Print of the Year
2007 Featured Print South Carolina Waterfowl Assoc.

Greg was a regular contributor to Gallery One's annual Masterworks in Miniature event and was a featured Gallery One artist.

Remembering Tom Cross

2009-01-06T09:57:00.010-05:00

Today, we learned of the passing of our friend, stellar artist Tom Cross who, over the holidays, lost a long and courageous battle with cancer. He was 54. Our hearts go out to his devoted wife Patti and daughter Amber. The biographical information (below) is courtesy of Mill Pond Press.

Artist Tom Cross blends techniques both old and new to create a light-hearted yet thought-provoking glimpse into the aspects of nature that are so often overlooked—its lore, its myth and its legends. His art is a journey on which one can, Cross says, "rediscover the magic of nature trapped just within our reach." Cross describes his artwork as nature folklore rather than fantasy or science fiction as he believes his work is more than just an illustration of a fantastic scene. With its roots in ecology and folklore, Cross says his work is wildlife or nature art that has gone "just a bit awry."

Cross' artwork is in a realm where science and art meet and mix. He combines ecological fact and fable with whimsical images and fuses traditional and nonconventional techniques to convey the visions, dreams and realities of a world that is environmentally right with itself. With a Bachelor of Science degree in zoology from the University of Florida, Cross is uniquely qualified to employ his unusual and effective combination of creative and scientific expertise to accurately interpret and artistically communicate complex concepts in an easy to understand and visually entertaining fashion.

A nationally recognized specialist in the study of coastal barrier island ecology, Cross has been honored with awards for his environmental activities as well as his art. He has been associated with ecological projects and environmental programs on local, state and federal levels as a contributing author and artist for such organizations as the Cousteau Society, the National Estuary Program, the Nature Conservancy, the American Littoral Society and the Sierra Club. He has made documentaries on barrier island management and other films, videos, commercials and animations for environmentally oriented organizations and projects. Cross has also served on the faculty of Ringling School of Art and Design, teaching a variety of subjects from publication design to digital painting and drawing.

In his artwork, Cross interweaves the magic of the different elements that, he says, "are the foundation of this floating sphere of life we call earth. Our planet is unique. It's a closed system and a fragile one. It must be tended with care, respected and kept whole for the generations who follow."

An added note: The Florida resident co-founded the Web site neversmokers.com to share information and hope with lung cancer patients who like himself never smoked.

Tom's originals and prints continue to be available through Gallery One.

Holiday News from Gallery One

2008-12-01T15:42:00.010-05:00

Happy Holidays!

Our annual Dean Morrissey Holiday Show (December 5 & 6) was a gala event. On Saturday, Dean hosted a special drawing lesson for 100+ kids who learned to draw monsters (Trundles) from the master of all monster drawers. Adults, as always, were treated to the world's best selection of Morrissey prints and paintings.

Thank you all for your kind comments about our new website. We are still working daily to refine, correct, add and enhance. Janice, our web guru, has done and continues to do a valiant job...and our collectors continue to be extremely patient. They especially love our search abilities...and our on-line ordering system.

As you know, our Kinkade master highlighter made her annual visit on Thanksgiving weekend. She was a real trooper...and worked early and late...and during her breaks to highlight some of our Kinkade canvases...so those of you who hurry can still take advantage of these beautifully enhanced images.

We have great things in store for our collectors...so stay tuned. If you are not on our weekly email subscription list, we urge you to sign up now. Advance news of sales and specials, coupons, etc. will be your rewards. And by the way...we never share your addresses!!!

Here is some unpleasant news for cruise ship art buyers. A class action suit has been instituted against a major cruise ship art provider...and against one of the major cruise ship lines. A major part of the problem is that "When an art buyer bids at a high
seas auction, he or she enters uncharted waters: courts have yet to catch up with the explosive new development of art auctions on the high seas, and it is unclear which...legal protections, if any, will apply. What is clear is that the cruise ship auctions being held by......vary in several significant ways from an land-based auction, which is subject to the terms of the Uniform Commercial Code and other state and federal laws. (High seas ) Auction goers would be wise to be knowledgeably acquainted with those differences before making a decision whether or not to participate in a high seas auction. Mapmakers of old put warning words on the empty spots of the map, the uncharted waters where mariners were at their own risk. High seas art auction buyers should take the same words to heart: "Here there be dragons."

Editor's Note: Meanwhile, Gallery One continues to hold web and live art auctions...living up to the standards of the UCC, the National Auctioneers Association, the Certified Auctioneers Institute...and the states of Florida and Ohio...where Gallery One auctioneer Alan Brown, CAI, AARE is licensed. In fact, Alan even conducted an art auction for the FTC and he is proud that in 30 years (or so), Gallery One has not had one complaint relative to auctioning art.

That's all for now!
Norah Lynne

Whoopee! Our new website debuts!

2008-10-30T09:29:00.011-04:00

Dear Friends:

We are so excited. This month marks the launch of the best and most comprehensive art site in the world! A real encyclopedia of today’s world of fine art priced for the contemporary art buyer. Not only is our “shopping cart” ordering system up and running....but we now have fabulous search capabilities which will make shopping for art a breeze. All this, plus an FAQ “learning center” with an easy to use glossary and great information about art and framing. There is also a system for saving your favorites and a way to register for gifts. And more.

Those of you that are used to ordering over the web will enjoy testing out our many features. If you are new to web browsing and buying, we are prepared to help you get real comfortable with our site. Just read the following hints, and if you need additional help, call me at 440.255.1200 or 800.621.1141....or email me directly. I’m janice@galleryone.com.

Click on http://www.galleryone.com/.

To do a quick search, use the search box in the upper right of each page. Enter the artist’s name or title that you seek - or “bear” if you’re looking for an image of a bear. Note that ALL the bears may not come up in a quick search. Only the pieces that have the characters b-e-a-r somewhere in the title, artist’s name or descriptions will show.

To see our POLAR bears, use the Subjects link in the left navigation. Start by clicking “Wildlife,” then “Bears,” then “polar bears.”

Another way to search is to click the Search button in the upper right of each page. It will take you to the Search page where you can, for example, ask to see all the Batemans in whatever price range you wish.

Now, we know there will be bugs and omissions. And we are dedicated to fixing them all. But with thousands of works of art....thousands of images...and miles of data, it will take us time...so we ask your patience....and your assistance.

YOU ARE THE EXPERTS IN HOW OUR WEBSITE SHOULD SERVICE YOU...and you are invited to complain, critique, suggest...and compliment us.

Just email us your comments and we will enter you in a weekly drawing for gifts, discounts and gift certificates. Of course, you will always earn our warm appreciation for taking the time to assist us.

Happy searching and happy shopping!

Janice and your friends at Gallery One

P.S. • Many images need to be improved. Dannette is working on those NOW. Norah Lynne is tackling and editing text. And Alan, Jen, Larry and Joanne are checking over every price....both for accuracy and for providing you with the very best prices in the industry. (You know, we will match or beat the prices of any authorized dealer!)

P.S. 2 • Our website is changing...but some things will NEVER change. Our commitment to the industry’s highest standards of MINT CONDITION works of art and excellence in custom framing prices, design and conservation will always be maintained.

P.S. 3 • BTW, don’t let the technology fool you. Behind each keystroke is a real person....a professional Gallery One staff member, personally dedicated to taking good care of you. Our goal is simple. It is the same goal that we had in 1974 when we began:

We want to be your favorite place to shop for art. Forever!

Buying art, collecting art, decorating with art and enjoying art! Where to begin?

2008-10-27T14:50:00.026-04:00

Start here!

Look around your home (or office). If the area is already decorated...and if it was decorated by you or subject to your approval, you already know what colors please you...and you know a bit about the style of design that makes you comfortable. If you haven't committed yourself to colors or styles, look through home magazines and cut out pictures of rooms that really appeal to you.

Next, look around your home. Make a mental list of those spaces that cry out for art work. Those quite often include the wall spaces over sofas, mantles, beds, and credenzas. Analyze your lighting. Does harsh afternoon sun bathe the wall over your sofa? If so, make a note of it. Do you wish that your dining room had more windows? Jot that down.

Accumulate art and memorabilia that you already own. You might be able to appropriate and frame or reframe items that have been in your basement for years. (Such items often can be used in a new way to add personality to groupings, for example.)

Visit your budget. Framed works of good quality might run $500 and up. Can you afford to purchase several works of art at once? Or would one item at a time (perhaps paid for on layaway) suit you best?

If you have a quality art gallery in your community, visit often. When you are ready to buy, enlist the assistance of one of their knowledgeable art consultants. It is the job of the consultant to help you purchase what you like and what you can afford. The gallery will want your repeat business, and will strive to keep you happy.

Feel free to look, ask questions and enjoy. Share information about your home and your likes and dislikes. Reputable art dealers and consultants are knowledgeable and love sharing information with you. Check out informative web sites.

(At http://www.galleryone.com/, we have developed a "learning center" to assist collectors.
Click on www.galleryone.com/format_learningcenter.htm.)

Art pricing seems mysterious to the uninitiated buyer. Works that look similar might bear very different prices. Make certain that you understand why an item is priced the way it is prior to making a commitment to buy.

Finally, don't skimp on the framing. To do so is often like putting Ford tires on your Bentley. Quality art galleries have at least one Certified Picture Framer on staff to supervise the gallery's professional framers. Rely on those pros to make certain your art is framed appropriately.

That's all for now.
Norah Lynne Brown, VP & CPF

What a Difference a Frame Makes!

2008-10-19T13:33:00.016-04:00

From fancy gold leaf to colorful textures, frames are now available in an incredible selection. But how do you choose the right one for your picture?

The style and size of the frame should be coordinated with the artwork and any matting or other decorative elements that will be used. The goal is a balanced design that enhances and provides a good presentation for the art, without overwhelming it.

Whether seeking period authenticity or eclectic flair, or anything in between, there is a line of frame mouldings to suit every style.

Some people use narrow, contemporary frames on all of their art, while others enjoy the elegance and drama of wide, ornate mouldings, even on small artwork. The best framing for each piece of art evolves from a combination of personal preference, current fashion and cultural traditions....helped along by advice from a truly knowledgeable professional.

You might have fun visiting us and trying different mouldings on a picture you want to have framed. Notice how different mouldings affect the appearance of the art: some look important, some look formal, others playful. There are many possibilities and looking is fun!

Of course, you’ll need a FRAMING PROFESSIONAL to guide you over technical aspects that affect conservation and composition. For example: 1. On matted subjects, be certain that the width of your matting is noticeably greater than the width of the frame. This helps draw one’s eye into the center of the framed item; i.e., the artwork will show off better. 2. Liners must be properly sized to balance out the frame, again so the eye can roll easily onto the art itself. 3. There are many choices relative to the type of glass you can use...or your art may benefit from NO glass. Your framing professional can advise you. 4. Frame colors are as important as proportions and need to be carefully selected in order to show off your artwork. 5. And, of course, your professional framer should automatically provide appropriate conservation measures to protect your treasures.

Gallery One’s custom framing department is full-service....providing sleek basic metals for posters, a full-line of top quality mouldings for prints, paintings and memorabilia....and now, outstanding “top of the line” artisan frames influenced by history and designed to be tomorrow’s heirlooms. This new line of custom frames will take your breath away. These out-of-this world frames are individually crafted...and are works of art themselves, with 22k gold finishes water-gilded by hand. The corners are “finished” after they are joined — i. e., the joints can not be seen.

The impeccable craftsmanship in this collection has applications for fine art, historic portraits and original period art. And for mirrors and memorabilia as well. The collection is organized by styles: Italian, Spanish, Dutch, American and contemporary. These frames are expensive. They are fabulous. They are more than worth it. And they beautifully augment our “usual and unusual” custom mouldings.

So whether you are framing Suzy’s first report card or your family’s prized original painting by Leonardo Da Vinci, we’ve got you covered...with great design and composition and never-failing conservation materials and techniques. All at prices that are unbelievably low...way below industry standards!

(By the way, we also have a new line of well-priced great-looking ready-made frames...designed by Gallery One designers for a truly custom look at ready-made prices.)

How do we do it all...and do it well?

Our Gallery One staff has nearly 200 years experience in fine art and custom framing...and three Certified Picture Framers in supervisiory capacities. Our suppliers are tops in our industry. And our commitment to taking good care of our clients is legendary.

That's all for now.
NL

Gallery One Wins TWO International Framing Awards

2008-10-14T15:34:00.011-04:00

Take a look at TWO Gallery One award-winning entries in international framing competitions! Decades ago, Alan Brown (Gallery One CPF) entered two Professional Picture Framing Assoc. (1978 & 1985) competitions...and was a winner in both. Framers were given identical prints...and were judged on superior design and conservation. Alan’s framing techniques were revolutionary at the time. Now they are part of our “usual and customary” framing systems.

SPECIAL NOTE: In 1986, Norah Lynne and Alan Brown were among the first picture framers in the world to earn the coveted Certified Picture Framer’s designation. Today, Gallery One’s framing and shipping departments are supervised by Peggy Snyder, long-time CPF.

Conserve & Protect: An Art & Framing Feature

2008-10-09T12:18:00.014-04:00

Conservation framing (sometimes called preservation framing) refers to the materials and techniques used by picture framers to frame valued art and objects to the highest standards. From matboards to glass to the paper cover on the back of the frame, today’s framers can provide a variety of specialized products and methods to display art and objects in the best possible environment.

As in any skilled craft, each professional framer develops an individual style of conservation framing, but there are a few principles generally regarded as standard: 1. All materials used in the framing should be stable, non-staining and acid-free. 2. All attachments used to support art or objects in the frame must be completely reversible, with no harm to the art or objects. 3. If glass is used in the framing, there must be space between the art and the glass.

What deserves conservation framing?
Anything being framed that has value to its owner deserves conservation framing. This might be fine art or investment art — or it may be a family heirloom. It may be a college degree — or it a child’s crayon drawing.

Conservation framing helps to preserve the value and condition of the art and objects you display in your home or office, and it usually does not cost much more than standard framing. Ask your framer about conservation services any time you have something framed that is valuable to you.

FYI, inexperienced and/or unskilled framers often masquerade as experts in conservation. For the protection of your art and memorabilia, we suggest that you entrust your valuable works to frameshops and galleries supervised by a CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMER. Call us or email and we will assist you in locating a CPF in your community. Or ask us to frame your art and objects for you. (email: art@galleryone.com)

That's all for now!
Norah Lynne Brown, CPF
(one of three CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMERS on duty at Gallery One)

P.S. Because you asked! Alan continues to lose weight....he is now FAT...and has left his obese status way behind. He tells me that he needs to lose 30 more pounds to be normal. You, too, can check out your Body Mass Index (if you dare) at http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/.

Picture Walls: An Art & Framing Feature

2008-10-04T10:14:00.013-04:00

A picture wall displays a group of framed items in a coordinated design. The frames may be of the same style or of the same color, but most often a picture wall includes a variety of different frames. The artwork may be united by a theme: vacation photos, a collection of sports memorabilia or family portraits. Or connected by subject matter: coastal scenes depicted in photos, watercolor paintings, old engravings, etc. Color might be the unifying factor as color-themed picture walls have a lot of impact, bringing the coolness of blue or the vibrancy of red into the room. Some of the best picture walls display an eclectic mix of sizes, colors and styles that reflects a range of personal preferences and experiences. Such a collection does not have to be limited to pictures. The arrangement can include mirrors, shelves and/or objects.

When placing various sizes of frames and art together, arrange each piece so that one outside edge is in line with another picture next to it, either vertically or horizontally. This technique helps bring a sense of balance to the grouping. Keep the space between frame edges fairly small, typically two to four inches. This will visually "gather the group together." (A great measuring tool to distance one frame from another is your hand...approximately 4” across!) The grouping can build from the center and spread out in all directions....or be developed into a rectangular shape. An irregular shape is very useful if you are likely to add to the items after the initial hanging.

As a picture wall involves several nail holes, work at organizing the collection on the floor in front of the wall where it will hang before moving the items to the wall. Many collectors cut newspaper to the size of each framed item and tape these mock frames to the wall with removable tape before attacking the wall with nails and hooks.

When hanging pictures above a sofa, consider that the bottom of the lowest frame leaves clearance for the head of a seated person. But don't go higher, or the pictures will seem to be floating instead of being visually attached to the sofa. (We suggest that you work with a partner to position art work....and the one that recommends the lowest position is the winner of the “space and place” competition!)

If there is not furniture against the picture wall, and if there are a number of objects to hang, the arrangement can cover the entire wall from ceiling to floor for a dramatic presentation.

Avoid direct sunlight or other strong direct light on the art. Keep track lighting and overhead picture lights away from close contact with artwork as heat from the bulbs can damage the art. Fluorescent lights (including the new compact curly bulbs)may cause fading of some artwork.

Molly and toggle bolts are usually reserved for heavy mirrors. And we personally (except for such mirrors) hang away from studs. Two standard picture hooks should be used for each item hung to "steady" the item.

I'll be happy to take your emailed or phoned questions. Our goal is to help you build a great collection of art...for your enjoyment.

That's all for now.
Norah Lynne

Celebrate Nat'l Art & Framing Month (all October)

2008-10-01T09:48:00.023-04:00

Two things continue to astound me relative to the art and framing world:

#1. I am constantly amazed by the number of collectors who take great care and spend many dollars to select artwork...and then skimp on framing the item...often sacrificing appearance or conservation — or both — just to save a few bucks — or a couple of inches.

#2. And I am more than perplexed that many collectors (not ours) are happy to leave their fine art in the care of neophyte framers.

The sad fact is that you can be "a professional picture framer" just by announcing that you are. You can brag that you are an expert in conservation and preservation of fine art without ever being professionally trained, tested or certified. Thus, in handling artwork, you are probably devaluing the items you handle through your ignorance and inexperience.

So this is my plea to you — the art collector: Celebrate National Art and Framing Month (October) in your community by insisting on placing your art in the care of a CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMER. We cannot promise that a CPF will treat your artwork as it should be treated...just as we cannot promise that your M.D. got all A’s in medical school. But you’d hardly want to put yourself in the care of a “self-styled doc” who didn’t even complete medical training.

BTW, even if you are one of our mail,

phone or email clients, we are more than

happy to frame your treasures. You’ll

love our pricing, our frame design and

our techniques for design, preservation

and conservation. (Or we can give you the name(s) of CPFs in your community.) FYI, our THREE (3) CPFs supervise every step of your framing process for the protection of your valuable art and/or memorabilia...
GUARANTEED!

For the rest of October, we will cram our blog with info about art and framing...and decorating hints. Feel free to email us with your questions and comments for our ART CONSULTANTS (Jen, Larry, Norah Lynne or Alan) and CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMERS (you might want to ask for Peggy...she is a long-time CPF...director of our award-winning custom framing department).

That’s all for now!

Norah Lynne Brown, CPF (since 1986)

Pictured above:
top: 3 Certified Picture Framers posing prettily!
center: Peggy, in blue, ruling the roost in Gallery One's framing department.
bottom: Experienced framer, Dannette, framing herself.

GREAT JAMES CHRISTENSEN NEWS!

2008-09-08T12:20:00.008-04:00

The good news keeps coming! First, great new giclee canvas releases from James C. Christensen...truly one of our favorite artists. Then the news of his spectacular new coffee-table book. And NOW.....ANNOUNCING HIS GALLERY ONE APPEARANCE ON THURSDAY EVENING, OCTOBER 23.

Already orders are pouring in for his book, "Men and Angels." Collectors are ordering them by the dozen to use as holiday gifts. At $85 (complete with James' personal autograph), each book will be a perfect present for a lucky recipient.

It would be a good idea to RESERVE your book(s) now!

Of course, if you are one of our out-of-the-area clients, we'll ship your reserved and autographed books to you the end of October....unless you want yours held for holiday shipping.

And MORE good news....we are already accumulating a great selection of new and older Christensen works. (Problem is they are selling like the proverbial "hotcakes.") So be sure to let us know if you are hankering for one of James' treasures. It looks like "Men and Angels" is making the Christensen market go crazy!!!!

Hope to hear from you soon!

That's all for now.

Alan "Slim" Brown

(see previous posts to view my weight loss photos)

Join the Club....the Custom Framing Club!

2008-08-29T10:59:00.004-04:00

It's new! It's FREE! And it's for all Gallery One custom framing clients. Here is how it works:

Pick up your FREE Custom Framing Club "passport" and we'll record your custom framing credits. When you have custom framed any FOUR of your items... from six available categories ... you'll earn a $50 credit on your next custom framing.

Categories include paper art, canvases, needlework, mirrors, diplomas/certificates/invitations and photos/memorabilia.

As always, you'll enjoy our low prices .... our experience ... and our expertise .... and earn a $50 bonus in the process.

(If you are one of our "out of town" framing clients, we'll work with you so you can join the custom framing club too.)

Care to eavesdrop? Here is what others say about Gallery One's custom framing:

WHAT CLIENTS SAY ABOUT GALLERY ONE'S CUSTOM FRAMING: They love our everyday fair pricing without coupons or gimmicks. ..and they love our great frame design and never-failing conservation materials and techniques.

WHAT THE FRAMING INDUSTRY SAYS ABOUT GALLERY ONE'S CUSTOM FRAMING: The industry has awarded THREE (3) Gallery One framers the prestigious Certified Picture Framing designation. And Gallery One’s custom framing department is winner of TWO (2) international picture framing awards.

WHAT COMPETITORS SAY ABOUT OUR CUSTOM FRAMING: They say we’re famous for low prices and top quality!

Check out our framing ... and send us your own comments. We love hearing from you.

That's all for now.

NL

I'm Still Obese!

2008-08-22T13:52:00.009-04:00

Well, it's been three weeks since my last blog...and I've lost a total of 30 pounds...give or take a carrot stick. I feel really terrific. I can fit into my tux. I can shower in record time...and I can fit into the booths at Yours Truly for my "no potatoes, no toast, no butter" breakfast. But I have five more pounds to go until I am FAT!!!! You see, I am STILL clinically obese. Can you imagine that my goal is being FAT?

Actually, I have settled down into a style of eating that is easy for me to maintain. I am rarely hungry and outside of an overwhelming desire to weigh myself every hour, I am fairly normal....and under 200 pounds!

Thanks for rooting for me!

Alan "still obese" Brown

The Incredible Shrinking Man

2008-07-30T14:36:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends:

Well, it's been a while since my last blog. I've
been dieting so hard that I've been too weak to
write!

Just kidding!

I've lost 22 pounds in the last month or so...and
I feel terrific. I'm not even hungry. I can
hold my pants up better. My clothes are fitting
and I can nearly button my tux. (Check out my
previous blog to see my "before" picture.)

I plan to lose 25 more pounds...and then hit the beach in my Speedo. Norah Lynne
promises me a whole new wardrobe if I get to 185....but the deal is that she gets
to pick out my clothes. Egads!!!!

Well, gotta go. It's time for my bullion and celery.

Alan

I AM FAT!!!

2008-06-24T18:10:00.008-04:00

I have a problem!

I can no longer fit into my Speedos. Restaurant booths are getting smaller and smaller. My clothes keep shrinking. And my bath towel won't go around me anymore.

Actually, the problems began when I was eight. Back then I looked so scrawny that my mom took me to the doctor complaining that I needed pills to help me gain weight.

I think they worked.

In recent years I have been on low carbs and no carbs. I've been a vegetarian. I've downed Slim Fast. I've tried South Beach and North Beach. I've eaten grapefruit, watermelon, cabbage soup and tomatoes. Perhaps my problem is that I've eaten all of the above at the same time.

Now is the time for me to get serious. I'd love to lose 50 pounds. I need to fit into my tux for a September wedding. I want to turn back the clock.

So I've joined the Nutrisystem plan and now I have a pantry full of little packages of dried stuff. I feel like an astronaut. A fat astronaut.

Yesterday was my first day. I reconstituted, microwaved, ate and drank. It wasn't bad. I'll weigh in next week and let you know how I am doing.

AB