Art Attic Framing & Design is a Missoula institution, and with Emily Hall at the helm it sails into its 58th year of business. One of the first local businesses to become a member with Arts Missoula, Art Attic’s sense of community shines through in how they conduct business, support local nonprofit organizations and events through sponsorships and more.
Us here at Arts Missoula were able to sit down with Emily Hall, owner, artist, and framer, and learn a bit more about the history of Art Attic, and what it is like working in a building full of artists.
Arts Missoula: Art Attic Framing & Design has been in operation since 1968, can you tell us a little bit about the history there?
Emily Hall: John Wilson left his part-time job as a picture framer for the Anaconda Building Co. back in 1968 to join photographer Al Hamm in his Missoula studio. While the Art Attic dabbled in everything from painting supplies to antiques in its infancy, it was framing that emerged as the singular focus. Ten years after its founding, the Wilsons sold the business to Janel Woodworth who ran the business until 2018. Originally located at 817 South Higgins, Art Attic Framing & Design then moved to its current location, 123 South Ave W in 1978.
AM: What was it like taking over such an established business? How have you brought your own flair to the day to day?
EH: Having worked at Art Attic Framing & Design for nine years before purchasing the business, I had already built strong relationships with its clients. The company’s excellent reputation and deep connection to the community made my transition from production manager to owner much smoother, and I feel honored to carry its legacy forward.
AM: What is one thing that would surprise people about the custom framing business?
EH: Science plays a major role in custom framing. One of the most important functions of picture framing is preservation. Custom framing involves far more than simply placing artwork in a frame. It requires extensive knowledge of art media, framing materials, and how those materials interact and change over time.
AM: Not only do you offer framing services, you do consultations and restorations as well. What are some challenges and some joys of doing restorations?
EH: Restoring an old or damaged frame to its original glory is deeply satisfying. For artwork restoration, we collaborate with conservators who specialize in different media. Because working with original artwork requires specialized training and materials, the conservation process can be both time-consuming and costly.
AM: What is it like having a staff made up of artists? How do you think that shows up in framing work?
EH: It’s amazing. Each of us brings a unique perspective and set of skills to both the creative process and the hands-on work. Our in-depth knowledge of different artistic techniques is invaluable and is shown through the quality of our framing and connection with our clients.
AM: How do you bring your personal art practice into your work?
EH: A strong understanding of color and design is invaluable in custom framing. I love finding ways to extend the artwork into the frame and creating a truly unique piece of work.
AM: What is one thing that Art Attic has or does that not many people know about?
EH: We offer professional art installation for both commercial and residential clients.
AM: What is your favorite type of art to frame?
EH: While I enjoy framing all types of art, sentimental pieces are especially meaningful. Helping preserve the memories and stories they hold brings me the greatest sense of fulfillment.
