The 2024 Frameworx Framing Contest showcased some of the best talent in custom framing, recognizing creative and skillful framers from across the country. The winners were announced at Frameworx by Mikki, Harry, and Sarah from the 4 Sticks of Wood podcast, who shared their enthusiasm for the incredible projects submitted this year.
This year’s contest, held at the Frameworx Expo, was a highlight for framers and visitors alike, serving as a reminder of the artistic potential in framing. Attendees left with new ideas and perspectives, ready to bring a fresh approach to their own work.
Contest Winners
Best in Show
Susan Gittlen of Whispering Woods Gallery in Holland, PA
Susan’s entry was selected for its careful balance of design and technique, earning her the “Best in Show” title. Her piece blended classic and modern framing styles, making it a standout among this year’s submissions.
Most Creative Use of Moulding
Brianna Campbell of Frame De Art in Englewood, CO
Brianna’s imaginative approach to stacked moulding demonstrated how framing materials can become central to a design, leading to her award for creativity in moulding.
Most Creative Use of Matting
Jennifer Herron Plahn of Personify Frame in Glenwood City, WI
Jennifer earned recognition for her intricate matboard design, which brought an added dimension to her work, making matting an artistic element in its own right.
Most Creative Technique
Kerbie Lansford of The Frame Shoppe in Rogers, AR
Kerbie’s entry stood out for its creative use of matting and technique of etched glass patterns showing through the whole frame to the wall, highlighting skill and craftsmanship and offering a fresh perspective on the framing process.
Notable Overall Design
The judges also recognized five framers for their thoughtful and effective designs:
Carisa Town – Hang It, Inc in Minneapolis
Mallory Jackson – Bay Street Custom Picture Framing in Port Orchard, WA
Christian Harwell – Cyrus Custom Framing in Canton, OH
Amy Ivell – Victorian City Art & Frame in Franklin, PA
Jennifer Bartlet – Main Street Framing Gallery in Lannon, WI
The Future of Frameworx
This year’s contest reinforced Frameworx as a gathering place for framers to share ideas, learn from each other, and celebrate the craft. With each event, the Frameworx community continues to grow, supporting innovation in custom framing. Stay tuned for more from Frameworx as we build on these successes and foster new creative opportunities.