You may not expect to have fun when going to get your art framed, but it is possible when you're…read moredealing with Mark! I brought in a wide variety of different pieces to have framed, some for my teenager's room and some that were photos I took. Mark did an amazing job of adapting to the needs and purpose of each piece. He has a huge variety of frames and mats, but most importantly, an eye for what will really bring out the best in a piece. He is an artist at his craft, and a storyteller! It was so nice to deal with a family-owned business and see his pride in his family history captured on the walls of his shop. We have found our picture framing master! As a side note, his turnaround times are remarkably short compared to what I would have expected. One piece with a custom-ordered frame will take about a month but the rest are only a couple weeks' wait. Will update when I pick them up!

Loved the Ray Sokolowski exhibit, Mark is a wonderful host, passionate about framing, we really…read moreenjoyed his excitement about the artist and local history!

For an auction that I won, per Liveauctioneers, they allowed a floor bidder to offer a higher sum…read moreonce bidding had closed. No one was able to counteroffer. Very unprofessional for a "gallery".

Wonderful gallery that shows the work of important Pittsburgh artists…read more They have a beautiful gallery upstairs and everything is professionally exhibited and lit. The staff is welcoming and the receptions are well managed. This week I attended a performance by the artist Vanessa German and it was a terrific event. The gallery supported Vanessa's idea for writing a series of poems for individuals in the community. On social media she requested"ingredients" for the poem and at the gallery Vanessa read each poem to the person after they came forward and sat in a chair. Parking can be tricky, as Braddock Ave can get busy, however I usually can find a space.

I'm certainly glad I attended my first Cookie Tour in Lawrenceville this December. It's because of…read morethis event I found out about Gallery on 43rd Street. There was a sign on the corner of Butler and 43rd indicating a cookie stop was down this street. Am I ever glad I followed the sign; otherwise, I would have remained on the main drag of Butler and never ventured into this lovely oasis. It's in an old house that is charming in itself. You make your way from room to room on the first floor. The day we were here, there were books in the front with the author present to sign them (gift number one), hand knit scarves next in line with the maker present (gifts number two and three), handmade earrings further back (gift number four), and artwork hung on the walls in the hallway. Everywhere I turned there were eye-catching handmade pieces. Definitely on my list to re-visit for those one-of-a kind locally made items.

My mom bugs me to go here every time she makes it down to Pittsburgh. I think she's purchased about…read morefives pairs of ear rings so far. You wont find this place unless you see their sandwich board situated on Butler Street. It's tucked away on 43rd Street and looks exactly like the rest of the houses on that block. Inside you'll find a variety of local art including paintings, pottery and jewelry. I'm not much of an art buyer and, while I really like their stuff, I simply can't afford it. However, their jewelry is priced low enough that my mom can indulge every once in a while. If you're into locally made, handcrafted art, it's definitely worth a look. The place is rather inconspicuous on the outside but on the inside it's a beautiful Victorian era house brimming with local art and behind the counter is a very nice lady that'll answer any questions you might have.