When Igor Annopolsky holds a gallery opening at Masterpiece Framing in Harrison, he does it big. At a recent event, which drew 120 guests, there was tango dancing and wine tasting for the adults, and ping-pong for the younger set.
By Janice Llanes Fabry
When Igor Annopolsky holds a gallery opening at Masterpiece Framing in Harrison, he does it big. At a recent event, which drew 120 guests, there was tango dancing and wine tasting for the adults, and ping-pong for the younger set.
“I like to hold events that integrate the visual arts with theater and music. That’s part of the beauty of the space here,” he said.
Of course, it helps to make a splash when the artist with whom he most frequently collaborates is his wife of 15 years, Alla Goldburt, whose oil
paintings are currently showcased at the front of the house. “I like the idea of creating artwork that viewers want to return to, every time finding something new,” said Ms. Goldburt, the daughter of renowned Russian master portraitist Berta Kuznetsova.
“Ours is an interesting family collaboration,” said Mr. Annopolsky, who frames his wife’s pieces. “She creates a mood with her paintings that add an extra dimension in your life when you hang them in your home.”
He is almost as passionate about his own framing and believes the craftsmanship lies in complementing the artwork, not eclipsing it. “Framing is like a dress on a beautiful woman. It’s important that a frame make the artwork pop, not the other way around,” he explained.
Since starting in canvas and frame restoration almost 30 years ago, Mr. Annopolsky has worked in the business. Consequently, when he spotted the “For Sale” sign on the longstanding framing shop at 243 Halstead Avenue seven years ago, he jumped at the opportunity. He rechristened it Masterpiece Framing and transformed the space.
A photographer with a keen eye, as well as an art aficionado, Mr. Annopolsky appreciates talented artists and takes pleasure showcasing their work. He has featured watercolor painters and sculptors, and has provided a venue for World War II airplane prints, miniature car models, and favorite pet photography contests. Above all, he insists that wherever it is his customers’ interests lie, everything they hang on their walls “should feel like a masterpiece to them to be enjoyed for years.”
Local artists interested in showcasing their work are invited to call 835-6686 or visit framingmasterpiece.com.
