Entrepreneur brings art background into new framing business
Todd Rowland is incorporating his art background in launching his new business in downtown Grayslake.
Rowland and co-owner Christy Kubiak are holding a grand opening Wednesday at Rowland Custom Frame and Gallery, 136 E. Center St.
The majority of the business that opened last week is devoted to framing.
"We frame jerseys, do restorations and pretty much anything you can put a frame around including violins and guitars," Kubiak said.
Rowland stressed that his mission is to provide customized service.
"We try to educate the customer," he added.
Rowland believes his strong art background is an asset.
"I was born into an art family," he said.
His father, Frank Rowland, is an internationally known artist who lives in Winston Salem, N.C. Specializing in landscapes and abstracts, Rowland carries a line of his father's artwork in his store. He also sells a "vast variety" of other prints and originals.
"We have something for everyone," he added.
Rowland, 47, and his father were in the fine art publishing business for 30 years and did fine art reproductions of Leroy Neiman, Norman Rockwell, Peter Max, Eyvind Earle and others. In addition, to publishing, they also did silk screening for many years.
He said it's important that he provide color, balance and harmony in his work.
Rowland is proud that most of his framing can be complete in a week or less.
The entrepreneur owned a similar shop in Des Plaines on Northwest Highway for 15 years until 1996.
He worked at other framing shops for the past 15 years and decided it was time to launch his own business again.
Kubiak, a professional singer, hopes to bring other aspects of retail to the shop including Trapp candles and jewelry. She will sing at the grand opening from 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesday.
For more information, call (847) 752-8715.
Building tips: Scott Skiermanski of Stoneridge Builders of Crystal Lake is hosting a free custom home building/remodeling seminar July 24 at the Holiday Inn, 1550 E. Dundee, Palatine.
The seminar runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. A custom new-home builder for more than 10 years, he Skiermanski serves as vice president of the McHenry County Home Builders Association.
He said the seminar will outline the preparation, planning and action steps involved in the design and building process. Sub-topics will include realistic expectations, budget, builder/architect selection, estimating, finance, construction and work warranty.
For reservations, call (815) 444-1239.
Top honor: Miller Industrial has been selected for the 2008 Best of Elk Grove Village Award in the paint stores category by the U.S. Local Business Association.
The USLBA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes local businesses throughout the country who have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category.
kmikus@dailyherald.com