Join us for the latest session of Stanley Sage, a program designed for older adults. This session will feature Pete Hartley, owner of The Frame Station (since 2023) in Iowa City, as he talks about his unique journey and passion for framing art. Pete will share how his love for the craft has quite literally "framed" his life, from early woodworking projects to becoming a cornerstone of the local art community.
This program will be hosted by Amanda Lensing. Light refreshments will be provided by the Barbara and Richard Csomay Center for Gerontological Excellence.
About Pete Hartley
My journey into framing started with the purchase of our house and a circular saw. I learned quickly that I loved to build things, continuing to push my skills further. I built cabinets and vanities, a shed, a 200 square foot addition, a climbing wall, and a hidden door that leads to a large closet. I got my start in framing when I purchased framing equipment in 2019 from my great-aunt and uncle who were retiring from their small operation in Northern Minnesota. I renovated my garage to have a workshop and started framing, initially as a way to supplement my income while being a bicycle mechanic, however. with the onset of Covid, I left the bike shop to take care of my children and continued to frame from home. My love for framing quickly grew the more time I spent in the shop. In 2023, a friend connected me with the original owners of The Frame Station in Iowa City, who were looking to retire. It was the perfect fit for all of us and I am grateful and proud to have taken ownership and enjoy the ways it has helped me grow my skills even further.
I view framing as a craft, with a touch of art. Sometimes, the best way to display or preserve a piece of art is to take a very creative approach. I believe that artwork asks and expects to be preserved for longevity in a way that adds to or draws out the beauty of the art itself. I love the way framing pushes my brain and allows me to come up with solutions that combine all the elements needed to accomplish this. Framing for my community has been a great joy.