From Hooking to Framing in Peace
Kathy Visser brings custom framing to the ART HUB
For Kathy Visser, the transition from retired nurse practitioner to local business owner wasn’t necessarily part of a grand design, but rather a natural evolution of her time spent within the walls of the Peace River ART HUB.
Visser, who joined the Peace River Art Club nearly three years ago, is officially launching her second venture, Framing in Peace, as the newest addition to the ART HUB’s vendors on Artisans’ Lane.
Visser says she never felt like a traditional artist.
"Being a retired nurse practitioner who doesn't draw and doesn't paint, the ART HUB has been so inclusive," Visser said. "It's a place that anybody can come and be a part of."
Her journey began with Hooking in Peace, a fiber arts business she describes as "painting with wool." By using a Sharpie to draw designs on a backing and filling them with textured wool, Visser found her creative voice. However, her newest endeavor, Framing in Peace, was born out of a practical necessity for the local arts community.
Recognizing a shortage of framing services in the Peace River area, Visser decided to step into the gap. When a veteran local framer offered to pass on her expertise, Visser didn’t hesitate.
"The local framer here offered to train us," she explained. "When she says she'll train you, you say yes."
Since beginning her training, Visser says she has been surprised by the sheer variety of items coming through her door. It isn't just about putting a photo behind glass; she has already worked with everything from plaster molds and memorials to original wood backings and canvases.
"Every piece is so different and so unique," she noted. "Every piece is something new to learn."
Visser understands that for many, the word "custom" can trigger concerns about cost. She acknowledges that while global material costs for lumber and aluminum have risen, there are still ways to achieve a professional look without breaking the bank.
"There are affordable choices for everything," Visser said, pointing to high-quality composite and polystyrene frames that offer the aesthetic of solid wood at a fraction of the weight and price.
For Visser, the true value of custom framing lies in preservation.
"When you put months and months of work into a piece, it’s not going to just sit in a drawer or a closet," she said. "These are works of art and they’re heirlooms, and they should be treated as such."
Framing in Peace is currently in its soft opening phase, and Kathy is ready to help the community preserve their most cherished pieces. Those interested in custom framing services can visit her at the ART HUB during their regular operating hours, which are Thursday through Saturday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. For those who cannot make it during those times, Visser remains flexible and is happy to meet by appointment. For more information or to connect with Kathy directly, residents can join the Framing in Peace Facebook group.
