Sign up for the paNOW newsletter
Sandra Zelensky of Sandra’s Framing, Gallery and Gifts. (file photo/paNOW)

Passionate about art and how to frame it

Jul 3, 2020 | 2:30 PM

Frames have been described as the ‘Cinderellas’ of the art world – beautiful, useful, and frequently overlooked.

They do a tremendous amount of work to protect, support and add significant value to any painting or photo. That’s why Sandra Zelensky of Sandra’s Framing, Gallery and Gifts, gives frames the importance they deserve.

“I love the whole process, from helping customers choose the right frame and mat that will showcase their art, photo or treasured memorabilia, right down to the assembly. Frames and mats, for me are like an accessory for art.” she said.

Sandra’s Framing, Gallery and Gifts is located 625 Branion Drive. (file photo/paNOW)

Zelensky recently purchased Christina Thoen’s framing business and the building its situated in.

“The art school is busy and she [Thoen] was looking for help and it just seemed to be a good fit. I love the framing end of it, and I saw a vision of offering space for other artist to sell their art and it just progressed from there. After spending the past seven years as an art student of Christina’s, I definitely feel a connection…it’s comfortable.” Zelensky said.

Various local artists are featured on the walls. At least four of them are students from Thoen’s art school and Zelensky predicts more local artisans will be looking to find good and safe options to display their work in the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic, when art shows or trade shows can’t take place.

“Taking possession of the business in mid-April allowed me to ease into the business and determine what would be best for the artists and my customers. I am always looking at the precautions and making sure customers and artists feel safe coming in,” she said.

Sandra’s Framing and Gifts features the work of local artists. (file photo/paNOW)

She invites any artists wanting to display and sell their work to visit her in store for available gallery space. Supporting local artisans and what she calls ‘phenomenal talent’ in and around Prince Albert is a win-win for Zelensky. Artists benefit from her customers and she can add life and visual interest to the pieces through her frame work. But, it is not just the local artwork Zelensky helps to enhance….

The right frame, mount and mat forms can add life and visual interest to pictures as well. Zelensky said now is the perfect time to sort out those special moments you have always meant to get framed. Whether it’s beautiful art from your kids or family photos, she can help showcase the treasured pieces through the framing process.

Born and raised in and around Prince Albert, Zelensky believes in supporting local. She and her husband farm northeast of the city where they raised their four children.

“I love this town and the diversity it offers.”

Visit Sandra for expert, professional framing advice. (file photo/paNOW)

The shop is equipped with proper barriers for safe in-person consultations or customers can leave their prints with Zelensky and choose to do a consult by video call.

Currently, custom frame orders for grad photos are being discounted by 20 per cent.

Sandra’s Framing, Gallery and Gifts is located 625 Branion Drive. Visit the Facebook page or give Sandra a call at (639) 739-7599.

*This content was created by paNOW’s commercial content division.

View Comments