Nestled in the heart of Ottawa’s Little Italy, Patrick Gordon Framing has been serving the community for nearly two decades. The business, founded by Patrick Gordon himself, is renowned for its exceptional framing services, specializing in handling and preserving original works of art.
With a team of dedicated professionals who possess a genuine appreciation for art, Patrick Gordon Framing is a trusted name in the local art scene.
Gordon has a life-long connection to the arts in Ottawa and he explains that a love of art inspired him to launch the business. “I have been working with art since I was a child, and it has never stopped. I come from a family of artists,” says Gordon.
Despite temporarily setting aside his artistic pursuits to make a living, Gordon felt a constant pull toward the art world. In 2004, he took the leap and started Patrick Gordon Framing initially as a moving, shipping, and crating business, with picture framing as a side venture.
“I will toot my horn and say that we have good taste for framing, but what makes us unique is that we have always worked with original art, and we know how to handle it,” Gordon emphasizes.
The team at Patrick Gordon Framing boasts a deep understanding of the art industry, with years of experience under their belts. Their focus is on preserving the artwork’s integrity and ensuring its longevity. They use only the best materials and craftsmanship to create frames that not only protect the art but also enhance its visual appeal.
The company prioritizes hiring individuals who possess a deep appreciation for art and know how to handle delicate artwork. Gordon noted, “You wouldn’t take your Mercedes to a poor mechanic. So why would you take your precious art to someone with limited experience?” Their primary concern is safely housing original works of art in the appropriate frames, with the art itself taking precedence over the frame’s aesthetics. Nonetheless, the completed frames always exhibit an exceptional appearance.
The business has forged strong relationships with esteemed institutions like The Ottawa Art Gallery and SPAO (School of Photographic Art, Ottawa). They have hosted art exhibitions, book launches, and fundraisers, supporting local artists and organizations.
Gordon proudly shares, “In our nineteen years, we have done numerous collaborations with many different institutions. We have worked closely with most galleries in Ottawa.”
The team at Patrick Gordon Framing has had the privilege of collaborating with renowned Indigenous artist Claude Latour, and they are currently in the process of organizing a show featuring another talented Indigenous artist, Kirk Brant. They have also worked with various government agencies that collect original works of art. Patrick Gordon Framing’s commitment to the community extends to sharing their expertise through framing talks and workshops.
Patrick Gordon Framing actively supports the local arts community through various sponsorships and initiatives. They have sponsored events like The New Arts Festival “Art in the Park” and supported organizations like Enriched Bread Artists, Saw Gallery, Spao, Photo Festival X, and Guerilla Magazine Ottawa.
Furthermore, the company is dedicated to empowering young individuals with learning disabilities by providing them opportunities to learn new skills. Additionally, Patrick Gordon Framing consistently donates materials and framing services to assist struggling young artists. Their extensive list of contributions and support reflects their commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive arts community.
Patrick Gordon Framing has been honoured with numerous awards and accolades, recognizing their exceptional work and dedication to the art community. “In 2013, we received an award from Council for the Arts in Ottawa for the best artist-helpful business in Ottawa,” Gordon reveals. The recognition highlights their dedication to supporting artists and further establishing their reputation as a valuable asset to the local art scene.
Their exceptional framing work has earned them the trust and appreciation of artists, galleries, and collectors across the city.
Gordon and his team are deeply committed to the future of Ottawa and the continued success of their company. “I believe that lasting 20 years has proven that we are not going anywhere. We continue to grow and learn to improve ourselves as a business in any aspect we can,” says Gordon.
The team at Patrick Gordon Framing remains committed to providing museum-standard framing services. They aim to continuously enhance their operations, explore new techniques, and ensure that art is properly cared for and displayed.
As the leading framing destination in Ottawa, Patrick Gordon, inspired by a love for art, has turned his passion into a thriving business that cherishes the importance of preserving original works of art.
With their expertise, commitment to quality, community collaborations, and recognition, Patrick Gordon Framing is the go-to place for artists, galleries, and art enthusiasts alike. As they look towards the future, their unwavering dedication to the art community ensures that their legacy as framing experts will endure for years to come.
As a special offer, Patrick Gordon Framing extends a 20% discount on any custom framing brought in throughout 2023 for readers who mention this article during their visit to the studio.
For more information, visit Patrick Gordon Framing at 160 Elm Street, Ottawa, on Instagram or online at patrickgordonframing.ca
