High Desert Gallery of Central Oregon

Good Things Come Home -- "Winter Night On The John Day," comes home to High Desert Gallery

Good things come home!  After nearly 2 months away from home, “Winter Night on the John Day” arrived home and now hangs at High Desert Gallery in Sisters Oregon.  In a previous post we commented on Myrna's trip to the International Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) convention and how surprised she was when she took First Place in the Open Framing Competition with her custom picture framing entry ... “Winter Night Time on the John Day,” a painting by Paul Alan Bennett.

Jim Cornelius, Editor for the Nugget News recently met with Myrna and wrote a wonderful article on the PPFA competition process and the recent award.  You can download a PDF of the article "High Desert Gallery owner Earns Framing Prize" (Download HighDesertGallery-Frame-Award-NuggetNews-02272008.pdf (112.3K)) or you can visit the Nugget News article directly at:  Nugget News. Typically the news media does a great job of factually reporting stories about High Desert Gallery and the Central Oregon artists we represent.  In the case of Jim's article he did an excellent job and especially the final quote from Myrna:  “I didn't expect first place at all,” she said.  “When they called it out, I must admit I didn't contain myself very well.”

Good things come home ... especially things that you work really hard at.  Myrna has spent years perfecting her craft and trade as an art gallery director, graphic artist and professional picture framer.  It is rewarding to be honored by her peers for a “good job.”  Myrna ... It's OK if you didn't contain yourself. Enthusiasm in the picture framing industry is very welcome and overdue! A special “'thank you' to the numerous clients and friends that have called to congratulate Myrna.

If you want to read more about Myrna, the award and Paul Alan Bennett visit the official press release at: Myrna Dow receives top honors at the PPFA 2008 International Framing Open Competition.

For more information, to inquire or purchase “Winter Night On The John Day,” an original gouache on paper by Paul Alan Bennett please call High Desert Gallery (1-866-549-6250 x 3) or visit:  Paul Alan Bennett.

Good things come home ... Here is a chance to own and take home “Winter Night On The John Day,” along with a bit of High Desert Gallery history.

High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art gallery with retail locations in Bend Oregon (Opening December 2008), Redmond Oregon and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Art Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz.

Photo credit:  Ian Wagreich Courtesy of PPFA

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Press Release -- Myrna Dow receives top honors at the PPFA 2008 International Framing Open Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Myrna Dow receives top honors at the PPFA 2008 International Framing Open Competition

Bend Oregon – February 15, 2008 – It's not often national or international honors are given to a small business owner in Central Oregon.  Myrna Dow, owner of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, recently competed with the best of the best  in Las Vegas and Dow's first-time entry garnered the top honor, First Place, and a Judges Award for High-Point First-Time Entry in the Open Competition.

The custom framing entries in the Open Competition ran the gamut of subject, style, and framing technique and were judged on four critical components including, overall impressions, design and creative elements,  technique, and critical assessment of skills.  The Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) hosts custom picture framing completions in several categories during their Annual International PPFA 2008 - Leadership in Framing Convention held in Las Vegas in early February 2008.

Dow selected "John Day River", an original gouache on paper, for the Open Competition that was created by nationally known and collected Oregon Artist, Paul Alan Bennett.  The work has a wonderful combination of rich textures and vibrant colors. The frame design was created to allow the viewer to first look at the artwork and then to allow the eye to follow out to the frame.  The components of the frame package were pushed to their maximum using a stacked moulding combination, suede wrapped mats, and a fillet enhanced with gilt cream place on a warm metallic gold mat. The artwork was suspended so the viewers eye could go first to the art and then play back and forth within the frame design taking in the subtle colors and textures allowing the piece to shine.

Dow, owner, director, and professional picture framer of High Desert Gallery and Custom Framing has a background in the arts and framing industry spanning more than twenty  years. Earning a BFA in Graphic Arts from Portland State, Dow first started in the graphic arts field working for several large agencies and typehouses.  In the early 80's she began her career in the gallery business as a sales associate and gallery manager.  After several years, she migrated to the custom framing environment and mentored by an accomplished professional picture framer.  In 1999 Dow relocated to Central Oregon and soon thereafter established High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of  Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Opening December 2008), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing. High Desert Gallery  honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as one of the top 100 Art and Frame Galleries in America and voted "Best Art Gallery" in Redmond, Oregon (2006 & 2007) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006). In February 2008, High Desert Gallery was awarded Top Honors in the Professional Picture Framing Association 2007-2008 International Open Framing Competition.  For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250. High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2008. The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

About PPFA:  For 35 years, Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) has served as the trade association for professional custom picture framers, art galleries, and framing and art manufacturers/distributors. With more than 3,200 members, PPFA provides a growing array of services and benefits including the professional designations, CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMER® (CPF®) and MASTER CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMER™ (MCPF™).   PPFA serves the art and framing industry as an advocate for its members and by offering programs that elevate professional standards, enhance profitability, and expand sales.  PPFA affiliated with Photo Marketing Association International® (PMA®) in October 2001. PMA® has more than 20,000 members in 100-plus countries and provides an annual convention and trade show typically drawing more than 650 exhibitors and approximately 25,000 to 30,000 registrants.

About Paul Alan Bennett:  Award winning professional artist, educator, and art advocate, Paul Alan Bennett has garnered national attention. Paul's imagery is passionately detailed and manifests a unique perspective and style resulting in colorful, vivid imagery sought after and collected nationally. Honors graduate of Maryland Institute of Art and Master of Arts from The University of La Verne (Athens Greece), Paul has excelled in the field of watercolor and most recently in the release of a select group of Limited Edition Fine Art Giclee Prints and worked closely with Pendleton Woolen Mills to release limited edition tapestry blankets. Paul's work has been reproduced for two Sisters Folk Festival Posters and the 2008 Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show poster. His style and perspective originate from memories, life experiences and travels that sparks many of the themes found in this Sisters artist's work.  Paul Alan Bennett's artwork is represented by High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

Press Release Contact:
TDow, High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon
PO BOX 519 Bend, OR 97709-0519  Phone: 541-388-8964
Web Site: www.highdesertgallery.com

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High Desert Gallery Takes Top Award at PPFA 2008 International Framing Competition

We've Got Framing!

Myrna and Tamara ventured to Las Vegas this past Sunday to attend two National Art and Framing Trade Shows: The West Coast Art and Framing Show and the PPFA 2008 - Leadership in Framing Convention.

Both trade shows are great resources for professional classes, educational opportunities, meet and greet vendors as well as getting a chance to see some peers, and old gallery and framing friends.  Among the classes and the trade show there is the walking walking walking and more  walking.  The Las Vegas Convention Center is huge and fits the trades shows beautifully  but it is downright big.  There has been some opportunities to run into old friends – Craig at Clayton Vally Frame Works, and Ginna at Gregory Frame Shoppe to list just a few.

Over the past few days both Myrna and Tamara took classes with the focus on preservation framing and dynamic, creative design – a niche market that High Desert Gallery of Central Oregon has built a solid reputation.  It has been a long week full of  two-, three-, four- and five-hour workshops and seminars, where they have learned innovative techniques and skills that will come back to Central Oregon and eventually be applied to your next custom framing projects.   You know that saying “ What Happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas”  ...  that doesn't apply to the great ideas and creative juices from the these two conventions. We've got Framing!

Boy -- We've Got Framing!

In a previous post we mentioned that Myrna received an award for her custom picture framing abilities at the Cascade Chapter of the PPFA.  This award allowed her to enter her entry into the PPFA 2008 International Framing Competition held this week during the PPFA 2008 - Leadership in Framing Convention. Additionally her award allowed her to enter the “Open” competition.   The open competition is just that ... The Open Framing Competition is framing an item of the framer's choice that meets certain  requirements and with strict use of preservation materials and practices for custom framing. 

The judging is based on four main categories: 

Overall Impressions:  Immediate first impression, overall viewer response and reactions to the piece.

Design and Creative Elements: Understanding use of design principles and achieving a cohesive design.

Technique:  The quality, professionalism and craftsmanship of the framed design.

Critical Assessment of Skills:   Rated on the framed project as a whole. The skills assessed are not only technical ability, but the capability of achieving a unified frame design and to meeting the stated objectives.

Myrna asked Paul Alan Bennett to create a small original watercolor to be used in the competition and he created a unbelievable wonderful watercolor of the John Day River (Central Oregon).  Behind closed doors Myrna interpreted the artwork, designed and completed the custom picture framing and three weeks ago we shipped the completed package off to the Judges.

The Results?

Award One:  Top Point Earner for First Time Entry
Award Two:  First Place,  PPFA 2008 International Framing Competition

Needless to say – Myrna is tickled pink   It is rumored that she did a skip or two on the way up to the stage to accept the award.  Tonight  the formal awards ceremony is held for all Print and Open competition entries as well as the awarding of the “Peoples Choice” Award.

We'll post more information with images in the next week or so.

We've Got Framing!

About High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Opening Fall of 2008), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing.  High Desert Gallery has been honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as one of the top 100 Art and Frame Galleries in America and voted “Best Art Gallery” in Redmond, Oregon (2006 & 2007) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006).  High Desert Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz .  For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.   High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2008.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

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Shadow Box Framing -- Professionally framing your "Story"

Picture framing provides an attractive presentation for art and objects, but it serves another important function as well: protection.  Framing can protect against damage from common environmental sources such as light, moisture, insects, and handling.  But what do you do when you have “nonstandard” art objects.  How does one frame a wedding dress, a 1920 football jersey, pads and helmet, a pair of silver rimmed prescription eye glasses from your Grandmother, a collage of baby pictures with a rattle, hospital bracelet and cap, a Native American bracelet, fiber art and quilts, sports jersey and awards, a 1920 Ford wrench?  You can do a couple things ... 1) Put the items in a box and store it under your bed and hope for inspiration, 2) try to do it yourself or 3) Take your prized family heirlooms and objects to High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon located in Redmond for expert design and professional custom picture framing services.  We know custom framing and we know Shadow Box framing! After all in our many years in business we've framed many unique items including all the previously mentioned items and the leather holster and belt pictured and many more items!

What the heck is Shadow Box Framing?  Shadow box frames are created when 3-dimensional  art objects need to be framed. Such as a wedding dress or a football helmet.   High Desert Gallery has successfully created Shadow boxes to accommodate many objects of various depths. Often we will mix objects with pictures to tell a story of a particular event in yours or a love one's life.

Most often shadow box frames and their contents are very personal and make great gifts. Similar to a collage frame, placement of objects and pictures must flow to tell a story. High Desert Gallery can and will help you with your design ... Most often too many things can become just clutter in a box and too few items or pictures will not convey the event or message that you wish to tell.

When you start the design process with High Desert Gallery we will suggest the use  of Conservation Framing materials and techniques whenever you have something of value framed—whether the value is monetary or sentimental. Often the items in a shadow box are of no “real value” but do have considerable sentimental value.  Consider conservation framing for the protection of the artwork and objects and do not assume that Conservation Framing will be expensive.  The cost is often not much more than ordinary framing, and the protection provided to your valuable artwork is a worthwhile investment for the future.

High Desert Gallery has many frame options available for shadow box framing including wood and metal mouldings and plexiglas boxes.  Need that autographed  football or baseball framed for your desk? Plexiglas boxes are a great solution.

When selecting the moulding the style and size of the frame is a key part of the framing design.  It 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.  The color, shape, texture and size of the moulding all play a role. At High Desert Gallery we have numerous wood mouldings that will accommodate the depth requirements of a typical shadow box frame.  Check us out – you'll be surprised and never disappointed.

Shadow box framing allows for your story to be cherished for a lifetime and will be a great heirloom to pass to generations to follow.  Feel free to drop by our Redmond Oregon Custom Picture Framing Gallery located at 453 SW 6^th Street at Evergreen in downtown Historic Redmond or call us at 866-549-6250 x 2. We would be happy to provide a free no obligation framing consultation and discuss your framing projects.  Hope to see you soon!

About High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Opening Fall of 2008), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing.  High Desert Gallery has been honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as one of the top 100 Art and Frame Galleries in America and voted “Best Art Gallery” in Redmond, Oregon (2006 & 2007) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006).  High Desert Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz . 

For more information please visit:   www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.   High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2007.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

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Press Release -- High Desert Gallery Advances to International Frame Design Competition

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

High Desert Gallery wins Frame Design Award at Regional Competition and advances to International Competition.

Bend, Oregon – November 6, 2007 -- Myrna Dow, Gallery Director of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon took 3^rd place at the PPFA^® Pacific Northwest Cascade Chapter Print Framing Competition on November 4, 2007 held in Portland Oregon. 

Each year framers from across the U.S. and Canada enter their Regional Professional Picture Framers Association^™ (PPFA) Chapter Print Competition. All contestants frame the same piece of artwork. Those entries that place first, second, third and/or honorable mention are eligible to advance to the PPFA International Print Framing Competition held at the PPFA Annual Convention.

The PPFA International PRINT Framing Competition entrants are vying for international recognition of technical framing expertise, artistic design, and cash awards. PPFA Annual PRINT Framing Competitions bring out the very best in the art and framing industry's framing designs.

PPFA International PRINT Framing Competition judging will take place at the 2007 PPFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada.  All entries will be displayed for Popular Choice voting as well.  Winners for first, second and third places along with honorable mention and popular choice awards will be unveiled during the PPFA 2007 International Framing Competition Reception and Farewell Party.

About the PPFA:  For 35 years, Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) has served as the trade association for professional custom picture framers, art galleries, and framing and art manufacturers/distributors. With more than 3,200 members, PPFA provides a growing array of services and benefits including the professional designations, CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMER^® (CPF^®) and MASTER CERTIFIED PICTURE FRAMER^™ (MCPF^™).   PPFA serves the art and framing industry as an advocate for its members and by offering programs that elevate professional standards, enhance profitability, and expand sales.  PPFA affiliated with Photo Marketing Association International^® (PMA^®) in October 2001. PMA® has more than 20,000 members in 100-plus countries and provides an annual convention and trade show typically drawing more than 650 exhibitors and approximately 25,000 to 30,000 registrants.

About High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Opening Fall of 2008), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing.  High Desert Gallery has been honored in 2005, 2006 and 2007 by Decor Magazine as one of the top 100 Art and Frame Galleries in America and voted “Best Art Gallery” in Redmond, Oregon (2006 & 2007) and Sisters, Oregon (2005, 2006).  High Desert Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz .  For more information please visit:   www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.   High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2007.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

Press Release Contact:
T Dow, High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon
PO BOX 519 Bend, OR 97709-0519  Phone: 541-388-8964
Web Site: www.highdesertgallery.com  Gallery Blog: www.highdesertgallery.info 

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What A Difference A Frame Makes -- Limited Edition Giclee Prints

In addition to being known as a stellar custom framing gallery, High Desert Gallery has established itself as an "original" gallery.   There is nothing like owning a well framed original and we always try to work with our clients to collect original works by the artist we represent.   The fact is that sometimes it makes sense to purchase prints.   Prints are often sought after, great images, and the prints we represent are of the highest quality.   High quality prints, what we refer to as "fine art prints", are a great way to collect an artists works and complement your original paintings.   High Desert Gallery represents artists that produce original prints such as etchings, monotypes, woodblocks prints as well as fine art prints that are high quality reproductions of the original work.  The evolution of computer technologies has created great benefits for fine art printmaking. A fine art giclée is created from the artist's original artwork. An extremely high resolution digital image of the artwork is made, then loaded into specially enhanced printers which output the digital image onto fine art paper or canvas.

Since the digital image includes nearly every subtlety and nuance of the original - including the smallest details of light and shadow such as the textures of the paint and canvas or paper - the fine art giclée is often difficult to distinguish from the original work of art. Brush strokes have the appearance of brush strokes, even though they are only two dimensional images on paper. Typically, limited edition artwork is hand-signed by the artist indicating their personal approval of each work of art, then individually numbered to identify each work of art as a part of the total edition.  Once the prints in the edition have been sold out, the digital file is then removed by the Giclee printmaker in order to maintain the integrity of the limited edition. The image will not be published again in the same form. Open editions on the other hand may or may not be signed by the artist and for the most part are not numbered as the edition is not limited. 

Recently, High Desert Gallery formed a strategic alliance with a distributor of fine art giclee prints representing  many American Artists.  The alliance will allow us to provide an additional line of giclee prints in our Redmond Custom Framing Gallery while still concentrating on representing our Oregon and Central Oregon artists.    The new line is unique and represents a wide range of work, style, color and formats.   Additionally the line also allows for size customization. If you love an image but need it bigger  -- 60” wide for example -- then we can customize it for you.  Don't need it 60” wide then we can order is as small as you need – 10” for example.  This provides options for your décor and home or office.   Our alliance partner, Artaissance, comes with years in the art and framing business and was born from a love of art and a passion for experiencing life to the fullest. Whether you’re choosing one special piece or looking to transform your entire living space, High Desert Gallery and Artaissance will help you create the experience. An experience for your walls that reflects what you love and who you are.

The High Desert Gallery / Artaissance collection spans the art scene, from traditional landscapes to hip, contemporary abstracts.  The collection is continually updated to keep it fresh and exciting, and the publisher looks for artists who offer a unique voice in the art world. With thousands of images to choose from, we believe you will find several that speak to you.

If you have that special need then we encourage you to take time to browse through our portfolio and create your own special collection. We hope you enjoy the Artaissance experience as much as we enjoy bringing it to you. To view the collection please visit:  Artaissance - Life is one big canvas!  ... Your orders are shipped directly to High Desert Gallery in Redmond and we will work with you on your framing selection and needs.  You'll have that work on the wall in no time!  Questions? Visit the link above or call the gallery at 1-866-549-6250 x 2 (Redmond).

Artwork:  "Welcome" by Jaime Ellsworth - All rights reserved and copyright 2007,  Artaissance

Artwork: "Green Pears" by Chavelle - All rights reserved and copyright 2007, Artaissance

About High Desert Gallery: High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Redmond, Sisters, and Bend, Oregon (Opening Fall of 2008) specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing.  High Desert Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz .  For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call 541-388-8964 or toll free 1-866-549-6250.    Original artwork by listed artist(s).  All rights reserved and copyright 2007. Use of image is restricted and prohibited without prior written permission.  High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2007.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

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What a Difference a Frame Makes -- Conservation Framing

We are now open on Monday's through the holidays in our Redmond Oregon Fine Art and Custom Framing Gallery -- Join us in Redmond on Monday-Saturday from 11am to 5:30pm or by appointment -- 541-388-8964.  See you this Holiday and it's not too late to start your holiday framing projects!

In celebration of National Art and Framing Month we will publish several articles on our "Framer's Corner" weblog and hold a special framing event in our Redmond Oregon gallery on Friday, October 19th during Redmond's Third Friday Art/Walk/Explore event.  If you aren't already signed up for our email snippets and want to be notified of future gallery events please visit:     High Desert Gallery web log! 

What a Difference a Frame Makes -- Find out How High Desert Gallery can make a difference for you! 

... and now ...

What a Difference a Frame Makes --  Conservation Framing

Picture framing provides an attractive presentation for art and objects, but it serves another important function as well: protection.  Framing can protect against damage from common environmental sources such as light, moisture, insects, and handling.  At High Desert Gallery we take pride in a well designed and aesthetically pleasing custom framing "package" and one that is archival and protect your treasure for many many years. 

Archival or Conservation Framing (sometimes called preservation framing) is the practice of framing art and objects using the most protective methods and materials available. It begins with the materials that will touch the art.  This includes the board that rests behind the art, the matboard that touches the front of the art, and the adhesive or other material that holds the artwork in place.  All materials must be acid-free and stable, and the artwork should be able to be removed from the framing without tearing or staining the art.

In Conservation Framing, space is provided between the art and the glass, to allow room for air circulation.  Without this space, changes in temperature and humidity can cause condensation of moisture inside the frame, leading to formation of mold, or even causing the art to stick to the glass (this is especially a problem with glossy photographs.)  The necessary space is often provided by mats or spacers.

The glass used in Conservation Framing can be an important part of the protection of the art, because excessive light can be damaging to many types of artwork.  We offer Conservation and Museum glass that are made especially for framing. They provide protection from UV rays.

At High Desert Gallery we will offer you Conservation Framing materials and techniques whenever you have something of value framed—whether the value is monetary or sentimental. Most people think Conservation Framing is significantly more expensive.  Don't make this assumption as the cost is often not much more than ordinary framing, and the protection provided to your valuable artwork is a worthwhile investment for the future.

Whether you are framing your most recent travel or event poster, family portrait or a fine art original print or painting we can provide options for you and the options will have  preservation in mind! 

High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Opening Fall of 2008), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializing in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing.  High Desert Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz .  For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250 or 541-388-8964.  

All rights reserved and copyright 2007. Use of image(s) is restricted and prohibited without prior written permission.  High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2007.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

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What a Difference a Frame Makes - The Art of Frame Design

High Desert Gallery just got better!  We are now open on Monday's through the holidays in our Redmond Oregon Fine Art and Custom Framing Gallery -- Join us in Redmond on Monday-Saturday from 11am to 5:30pm or by appointment -- 541-388-8964.  See you this Holiday and it's not too late to start your holiday framing projects!

In celebration of National Art and Framing Month we will publish several articles on our "Framer's Corner" weblog and hold a special framing event in our Redmond Oregon gallery on Friday, October 19th during Redmond's Third Friday Art/Walk/Explore event.  If you aren't already signed up for our email snippets and want to be notified of future gallery events please visit:     High Desert Gallery web log!

... and now ...

What a Difference a Frame Makes   - The Art of Frame Design!

Confused by all the frame/moulding samples on the walls at High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing? From fancy gold to funky textures, we have frames available in an incredible selection.  It is fun just to look, but how do you choose the right one for your picture? With more than 20 years in the art and framing business we are thinking we can likely  help with that!

The style and size of the frame is a key part of the framing design.  It 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.  The color, shape, texture and size of the moulding all play a role.  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. If color is critical to your room design, bring along a swatch of fabric or paint so we can coordinate the art to the room.

Whether seeking period authenticity or eclectic flair, or anything in between, there is a line of frame mouldings to suit every style. Today’s mouldings are made from wood, aluminum, and newer materials such as resin.  They may be hand-carved, machine embossed, extruded, or molded.  The finishes range from simple solid colors to elaborate, multi-layered colors and textures.

Stop into our art and framing gallery in downtown historic Redmond Oregon and lets us to show you several different mouldings for your art and pictures.  Notice how different mouldings affect the appearance of the art: some look important, some look formal, others playful.  One may accent a particular color in the art, while another one seems to reflect the overall style of the art.  We framed anything from precious fine art, family treasures, football uniforms to wedding dresses.  We can help and there are many possibilities and looking is always fun and easy! 

High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art and custom picture framing gallery with retail locations in Bend, Oregon (Opening Fall of 2008), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing.  High Desert Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz .  For more information please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call toll free 1-866-549-6250.  

All rights reserved and copyright 2007. Use of image(s) is restricted and prohibited without prior written permission.  High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2007.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.

Buy. Frame. Hang. It's as easy as One, Two, Three!

It’s Tip Time during National Art and Framing Month and we have 36 tips from the National Art & Framing Council on three subjects ... Tips for and the How To of: Buying Art.  Framing Art. And Hanging Art.  We’ve added a forth subject: Storing Art.

Tips for Buying Art

1. Are you looking for art to hang in a particular place? If so be sure to measure that space. If possible, a snapshot of the area would be very helpful when you work with the gallery staff.

2. Ask questions.  Any reputable art dealer should “know their stuff” and be happy to share information with you. Ask about the artist and the media.  Is it a reproduction or an original? Ask them to explain how the art was made.

3. What style should you buy? Which artist? Buy what you like. Unless you are a collector developing a body of work, your choices should be based on what you will enjoy.

4. Having trouble with your decisions? Can’t quite picture the piece in your space? Ask if you can take it home on approval. This may have limitations due to the value and you’ll probably have to pay for it with the understanding you may return it in a couple days.

5. When pricing, compare apples to apples.  Artwork may look similar, but may actually be different media created in a different way that affects the value, longevity, etc. If you are looking at art online remember, the colors will be different in real life. Monitors and scanners cannot faithfully duplicate the original. Sizes may also differ.  They may be listed by the size of the image, the paper it is printed on or the outside size of the frame.

6. Learn about types of art. Books, gallery walks, and museum visits and tours will expose you to many forms of art.  Go out and see “the real thing.”  Art fairs are a great place to talk to artists about what they do and how they create the work.

Tips for Framing

1. The frames, mats, glass and methods used to support the art will vary for each piece to be framed. A professional picture framer’s job is to provide a good presentation for your piece while protecting the artwork as much as possible. Tell the framer the importance of the piece. Is it a fun poster for the kid’s room or the last portrait of your great-grandmother?

2. Choose the appropriate frame. Frames are available in thousands of sizes, colors and finishes.  Many are designed for a specific use. There are special mouldings for mirrors, shadow box frames and art on canvas. Accurate historical designs are also available.

3. Mats surrounding artwork present the art for viewing as well as provide air circulation. There are several types of matboard; depending on the level of quality required for the piece. Acid-free is good but it is only one feature of a quality matboard, the fiber content and purity are also important.

4.  There is a wide variety of glazing available from a custom framer. It can be made of glass or acrylic and can offer ultraviolet protection, extreme clarity and glare reduction.

5. The size of the art, mats and moulding is critical to a well balanced design. The frame shop or gallery should have examples on display to demonstrate designs.

6. If the piece will hang on a patterned or heavily textured wall, a wide mat will be necessary for comfortable viewing of the art.

7. Is the color critical? Bring in swatches of paint or fabrics from the room where the piece will hang. It will be useful when designing the framing.

8. Reframe pictures and reuse frames: perhaps a new mat color is all you need to coordinate your old artwork with your new decor.

9. Use Plexiglas on art that will hang in children’s rooms or play areas.  It does not shatter like glass and the edges of broken pieces are not as sharp.

10. Ask questions at the frame shop--the more you know, the better you can make decisions about framing your art and objects.

Tips for Hanging Pictures

1. Not too high!  This is the most common mistake made when hanging pictures. Think in terms of eye level, so that the eye of the average viewer falls about one-third of the way down from the top of the picture.  This should be about 55” to 58” from the floor.

2. Hanging a picture next to a lamp or low table where the viewer will be seated? It’s eyelevel again, except the level of the eye now will be much lower. The picture should look connected to the grouping.

3. Be sure to use hangers that are strong enough to hold the weight of the picture. Two hangers are better than one. The weight will be distributed and the picture will be less likely to shift. The custom frame shop will typically provide two hangers for the framed item.

4.  Is the wall strong enough? Most framed pieces weight less than ten pounds while the hangers provided by a custom frame shop will well exceed that weight the wall may not be able to support the hanger. You may need special hangers for the wall which will not pull out or droop down. Wall board, metal walls, brick walls and old plaster walls may present a problem, but there are hangers for all types of walls; be sure to use the right one.

5.  When hanging a pair or trio of pictures, group them together so they relate to one another instead of appearing to float in a large space on the wall.  Keep the distance between pictures small—just a few inches apart.

6.  When hanging a picture wall, create alignments, so the viewer’s eye has lines to follow.  These visual lines may be horizontal or vertical.  Any two frames should have a common line, horizontally or vertically.  Keep the spaces between pictures nearly equal—two to four inches apart.

7.  All types of art can be hung together. Drawings, paintings, collages; traditional subjects or modern; picture walls can be the gathering place for an interesting collection of art and photographs.

8.  Here are two ways to “audition” a picture wall: a) arrange and rearrange the pictures on a floor until satisfied with the layout before hanging on the wall.  b) make templates by tracing around each frame on a piece of newspaper, cut out and hang the newspaper samples (taped to the wall with small pieces of removable tape) until satisfied with the arrangement.

9. Measure and mark (with a pencil) the location of the nails on the wall.  Remember to pull picture wire taut when measuring the distance between the top of the frame and the wire.

10. Avoid hanging art and valuable art in direct sunlight: excess light can damage many types of artwork. Use ultraviolet filtering framing glass to significantly reduce harm from light exposure.       

Things to Consider When Storing Art

As much as we’d love for you to frame ever single purchase we know that for many collectors that isn’t practical.  Additionally and is the case when we travel, we see work we would love to own and don’t want to miss out on the opportunity. We secure the purchase then worry about framing in a month or so.  Even if you store art for a short period of time it is important to store it correctly!   

Not ready to frame that artwork yet?  Hanging some new frames but plan on keeping the old ones?  We rotate our artwork but I’m never sure how to store the framed work.  Here are some general tips for storing art:

In General
Artwork should be protected from excessive heat and moisture, and extreme temperature changes.  Avoid basements, garages, and attics unless they are “climate-controlled.”  Art should be covered or enclosed to protect it from light and dirt.

Storing Unframed Art
It is best to store unframed art flat, between two pieces of clean, rigid, non-acidic board.  Under a bed is often a good storage space—unless you have cats or dogs that like to chew paper!  Even if the art arrived in a cardboard shipping tube, it is better to remove it from the tube and store it flat.  If flat storage is impractical, and you decide to keep it in the tube, do not roll and unroll the art more than necessary—it places stress on the paper fibers and on the paint or ink on the surface. 

Storing Framed Art
Protect the frames, either with corner protectors or by wrapping in paper.  Do not store frames in sealed plastic bags that prevent all air circulation.  Small framed pieces can be stored flat on shelves, but beware of stacking too much weight on the glass!  Larger pieces should be stored upright—and right side up, not upside down, because artwork is often hinged at the top, and may slump from too much  stress if stored the opposite way.

About National Art & Framing Month:  October is National Art & Framing Month, and thousands of  frame shops and art galleries will be celebrating with a variety of special events and programs designed to promote the enjoyment of art as part of daily life.  For more information, please contact High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.  We have numerous events scheduled in October for the celebration of National Art and Framing Month!  For more event listings visit our online event calendar or High Desert Gallery Celebrates National Art & Framing Month!

 About High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing: High Desert Gallery, honored in 2005 & 2006 by Decor Magazine as one of the top 100 Art and Frame Galleries in America has two convenient retail showrooms in Central Oregon. Voted Best Art Gallery in Sisters Oregon (2005 & 2006) and Redmond Oregon (2006) by readers of The Source Weekly, a Central Oregon Arts & Entertainment publication. High Desert Gallery’s flagship gallery is located in the heart of beautiful and sunny Sisters, Oregon, at 281 West Cascade Avenue at Oak Street. The Redmond, Oregon gallery is located in the center of the historic district of downtown Redmond at 453 SW 6th Street at Evergreen. Both Redmond and Sisters are a short 15-45 minute drive from Bend, Black Butte Ranch, Eagle Crest Resort and Sunriver Resort, and only three hours from Portland. High Desert Gallery in Sisters, Oregon is open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. High Desert Gallery in Redmond, Oregon is open 11 A.M to 5:30 P.M. Tuesday through Saturday. For additional information on the gallery please visit: http://www.highdesertgallery.com , call 541-549-6250.

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What is Valuable? And the Value in Framing

Ever wonder what the Value in Framing is?  We’ll try to answer that in just a moment so do please read on but first ... Don’t forget about our upcoming Picture Framing Talk and free framing workshop. Two different days and two fun events.  Please Join us! ...

“Picture That!” with Gallery Director, Myrna Dow
Thursday, October 26, 2006      7:00PM
High Desert Gallery – 453 SW 6th Street Redmond Oregon
Free and open to the public but please RSVP to 541-549-6250 or 541-548-1811.
Lively Conversation and Refreshments served!

Map to High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing in Redmond Oregon!

High Desert Gallery’s “Picture That!” framing seminar is part of National Art and Framing Month at High Desert Gallery.   The gallery has numerous free events throughout October and we hope that you can attend one or more of the events!

Framing Consultation Workshop and Open House 
Saturday, October 28, 2006 – 11:AM to 5:30PM
High Desert Gallery – 281 W Cascade Avenue Sisters Oregon

Bring in your family heirloom, poster, fine art work, photograph items or whatever  and have Myrna and award winning staff at High Desert Gallery design a stellar custom framing project for you.  No obligation to purchase and at the same time you can pick up your free gift and enter to win a free $150 Framing Gift Certificate.  Stop by the Redmond or Sisters Fine Art Gallery to see what’s new in the world of framing!  Free and open to the public. Refreshments provided!  For more information call 541-548-1811 or 541-549-6250!

Map to High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing in Sisters Oregon!

What is Valuable? And the Value in Framing.

We love working with customers and we pride ourselves on providing great customer service, Fine Art and Stellar Custom Framing™.  But sometime, and to be honest, after a long day on the gallery floor and helping numerous people with their art and framing needs, the day and conversations can get to you.  This doesn’t happen very often and don’t take us wrong  . . .  We love providing access to wonderful Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and providing great customer service and we do it seven days a week from 10AM to 6PM!  But, every once in a blue moon we take liberty and chime back at some customers comment.  One of our favorite customer comments is:   “Framing cost so much! . .. Often it is more expensive than the art.”  We smile and provide a tongue in cheek response: “If it helps, I can raise the price of the artwork if you would like me too.”  We are joking and our customers know it, but the fact is there is a cost to quality framing.

You do need to put things into prospective and balance the art and framing purchase with the use as well as the value of the artwork.  Just what is valuable anyway and why should we care when it comes to framing?

The popularity of the antique-appraisal television show is easy to understand:  we are fascinated by the sometimes ordinary, sometimes extraordinary value of the debris from the attics and basements of average folks—value which often seems capricious to many of us in the audience.  This painting is worth less than one hundred dollars, another one—which looks similar to the non-expert—is worth thousands.  Often the owners of the objects, no matter how high the dollar value, say they would never consider parting with the item, because of its sentimental importance to the family.
   
These transactions are a wonderful lesson about the nature of value.  Items may possess financial, historical, or sentimental value—and sometimes the value is a combination of those elements.  The financial and historical value may be determined by rarity, quality, and public popularity, but the sentimental value is not restricted by such practical elements—it is simply a measure of how precious the item is to its owner.
   
When having art and objects framed, consider the current and the potential value of each item—and take all types of value into account.  A few simple measures today might make a big difference can in the future value of your items.  Professional framing can present the items for your enjoyment today, and also help preserve them for the future.

Over the 20 plus years we have been in the business we have always found that education is a wonderful tool in helping customers’ make their purchase decisions.  In the consumer products world you have access to many different sources of information.  Did you reference “Consumers Report” that last time you made that big electronics purchase?  Often a little homework goes a long way! 

Need help with your homework?  We’d like to help and you can even have a glass of wine at the same time!  If you are interested in learning more about framing, design techniques and archival standards, then we encourage you to attend our “Picture That!” framing program hosted at High Desert Gallery and Custom Framing of Central Oregon.   Please join us for a short 30-40 minute presentation on framing component and what to “look” for in your next framing project.  We’ll discuss color, color design and layout, archival standards and of course frame components.  The presentation is a low-key and educational opportunity for you to learn more about framing and to ask questions. 

About National Art & Framing Month:  October is National Art & Framing Month, and thousands of  frame shops and art galleries will be celebrating with a variety of special events and programs designed to promote the enjoyment of art as part of daily life.  For more information, please contact High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.  We have numerous events scheduled in October for the celebration of National Art and Framing Month!  For more event listings visit our online event calendar or High Desert Gallery Celebrates National Art & Framing Month!

 About High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing: High Desert Gallery, honored in 2005 & 2006 by Decor Magazine as one of the top 100 Art and Frame Galleries in America has two convenient retail showrooms in Central Oregon. Voted Best Art Gallery in Sisters Oregon (2005 & 2006) and Redmond Oregon (2006) by readers of The Source Weekly, a Central Oregon Arts & Entertainment publication. High Desert Gallery’s flagship gallery is located in the heart of beautiful and sunny Sisters, Oregon, at 281 West Cascade Avenue at Oak Street. The Redmond, Oregon gallery is located in the center of the historic district of downtown Redmond at 453 SW 6th Street at Evergreen. Both Redmond and Sisters are a short 15-45 minute drive from Bend, Black Butte Ranch, Eagle Crest Resort and Sunriver Resort, and only three hours from Portland. High Desert Gallery in Sisters, Oregon is open daily from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. High Desert Gallery in Redmond, Oregon is open 11 A.M to 5:30 P.M. Tuesday through Saturday. For additional information on the gallery please visit: http://www.highdesertgallery.com , call 541-549-6250.

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