Inside an unassuming massive brick building in downtown East Greenwich is an art-lover’s dream. Crestar Picturing Framing is 16,400 square-feet of framing materials, work areas, tools, supplies, and machines like a canvas stretcher, as well as an in-house art gallery. “Look around, isn’t it awesome?” says owner Brendan McCarthy, who purchased the business – established in the 90s – with his wife Edith, in 2022.
Originally from Ireland, McCarthy was working in sales when he decided to pivot and purchase Crestar. Drawn to the precise nature of framing, one aspect he didn’t expect was the personal impact that preserving something can have on himself and others. “It brings joy to people,” says McCarthy with a smile. “We can take something simple like a photo of a pet dog from your phone and transform it with a lovely gold frame and fillets, making it very special.”
When someone brings in a piece to be framed, the team works collaboratively to help guide the design, navigating the large selection of frame samples, mouldings, and mats to suit styles and budgets. “You see the project building in front of your eyes, and everyone here can help,” explains McCarthy, who notes that Crestar works closely with galleries, artists, photographers, interior designers, and the general public to preserve and add dimension to artwork through custom framing, digital art production, constructing shadow boxes, and more. “We can frame anything, from a napkin to a 96-inch by 72-inch tapestry for the New Bedford Whaling Museum,” says McCarthy.
Since the McCarthys took ownership, they have doubled the staff. “Nearly all employees are artists, creators, graphic artists, or students of interior design, and all are drawn to the job because of art,” says McCarthy. “My wife and I are passionate about creating an environment that is healthy for our employees because human dignity is such an important thing.”
Not only has the company grown in size, but also in scope – expanding beyond framing to include other reproduction services. The facility boasts a state-of-the-art scanner, capable of capturing large images, which can then be used to make fine art prints. McCarthy explains that Canon 12 color printers are employed to print art and clients’ photographs on a variety of media including fine art papers, canvases, and photo papers. Some art prints appear so original and textured that staff member Sara Larson often encourages customers to gently pet their finished print.
Since 2023, Crestar has partnered with noted gallerist Candita Clayton, who operates a fine art gallery on-site representing artists across a spectrum of styles and mediums. Art work is also for sale, and if you’re not quite sure how to display your framed work or acquisition, personalized consultations and home installations are available.
Beyond framing paintings, posters, maps, and photographs, objects preserved in bespoke frames and shadow boxes can include pretty much anything, whether it’s a sports jersey, musical instrument, or a souvenir. “People bring us things they love and we preserve and present them in beautiful frames,” says McCarthy. “Every day is a delight, because we enjoy helping people.” Learn more at Crestar.art
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