About
Michelle, Owner and Framer Extraordinaire
I cannot remember a time when I wasn’t framing and didn’t have the joy of art in my daily life. My exposure to custom framing began at a local Art and Craft supply store as a high school student some 15 years ago. I apprenticed with a knowledgeable but sometimes stern master framer and learned from observing how to treat all art work with respect and admiration. As I worked towards an English degree, I escaped to the frame shop to build and create with my hands. Every interaction provided a new lesson. Ten years ago I moved to the Pioneer Valley and began to immerse myself in all that this area has to offer, most notably a vibrant and inspiring group of artists that makes framing a daily adventure. I worked for many years at a gallery that enhanced elaborate ornate prints and paintings that challenged my carpentry skills and allowed me the room to hone my designing abilities. I eventually found myself in the heart of Amherst, interacting with people who have become like family. My job allows me to connect with people through the art they bring to frame. I learn about long lost family members and trips abroad and children’s accomplishments. I truly appreciate the opportunity to protect and enhance this community's memories and stories. And it is in the spirit of opportunity that I have embarked on this great new adventure here at Hope and Feathers Framing.
Q&A with our team
Lisa, Master Framer
1. If I were a frame, I would be...
A shadowbox frame, because I'm full of memories. And I'm deep, baby, real deep.
2. The thing I like best about framing...
...is seeing the amazing artwork that comes into the shop daily. I love collaborating with customers during the design process, then, with my own hands, making their vision into reality.
3. On my days off I can be found...
Obsessing over my flower gardens or hiking through the woods with my spoiled little dog.
4. Hope & Feathers is all about...
Making sure every customer has a great experience when they walk into the shop. Even after 15 years in this profession, I genuinely love helping customers choose mats and frames that enhance and protect their art.
5. My favorite/most memorable framing project:
My grandfather served in Japan during WWII and had a drawer full of medals and mementos. I designed a shadowbox that included his medals, dog tags, photos, and a Western Union telegram he received in Nagasaki informing him that his wife had a baby, my mom!
Mareika, Designer and Gallery Assistant
1. If I were a typeface, I would be...
because although I am a graphic and web designer by trade, I am a 2D artist by training. My first love was drawing.
2. The thing I like best about working at Hope & Feathers...
...is being creative every single day, and seeing all of the beautiful art that gets framed and shown in the gallery. I am constantly being inspired!
3. On my days off I can be found...
At different coffee shops and vintage clothing stores in the Valley, attending fall festivals, and trying not to look at a computer screen!
4. Hope and Feathers is all about...
Reaching out and connecting to the community. We’re a local shop with strong ties to the people and places around us, and we’re working to make Amherst a better place all the time.