The Wonderful World of Ley

As custom framers and being a retail store, we are so blessed to become part of the lives of the many folks that enter our enchanted little shoppe. We get to help so many people create the surroundings they call home and when they bring home what we've helped them put together, a piece of us goes along with them. We have extended families in so many of our clients that we thought it very appropriate to showcase in our first major blog a collection and friendship that has spanned

well over a decade. So, it is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the collection and family, LEY.

Eric Ley is a wonderful man with an incredible collection and even more incredible family. A proud husband and father too, Eric shares his passion for Disney, movies and music memorabilia with his wife Denise and their two children, Megan and Brandon. Collecting has always been a family oriented hobby for this household that has branched out

to include Eric's parents too, who also share a love for fine Disney art and memorabilia. Through all these years, the Leys have purchase, placed and hung many treasures found in, or framed by our gallery that we are proud to share here with you all...

Integrating a collection of premium porcelain

figurines, fine art animation and autographed memorabilia (most often obtained, IN PERSON by Eric and Co.) is no easy task, but with an eye for tasteful placement and the cooperation of every family member, Eric has transformed an already beautiful space into a virtual Magic Kingdom. Matching curios hold treasured statues and trinkets the family has accrued over the years from their many visits to Disney and our shop as well. Our inducting into this families walls of fame began with a Disney event sculpture from Sleeping Beauty of Maleficent way back in 1999. Eric was immediately taken with our shared love for these timeless characters and still to this day fondly remembers our "animated passion" in which he shares.

But it wasn't just figurines that caught the attention of the Ley clan. Animation Art from cels to canvas giclee's also began decorating their walls, assisting in

keeping this families shared hobby alive. It was always a family experience when Eric came to our shop and, through the years, we watched as both he and Denise raised two amazing children

with collecting skills and interests that easily rival those of their parents. We've been fortunate enough to frame some of their hobbies and enjoyments too ranging from pirates, pixies and punkers to music and ministries of magic.

Speaking of

magic, the realm of Harry Potter has cast a collecting spell on this family as well. Statues, wands and an amazing collection of autographed memorabilia enchant the Ley Kingdom. In

almost every room of their home, a presence of Muggles and Wizards can be found in many shapes and forms. Some autographs have been obtained in person at various productions here in NYC with conversations and memories being preserved behind glass for daily viewing. One recent

framing project included a series of valuable autographed character cards that can be viewed from both the front and back of the frame, complete with many decorative accoutrements giving it that special Hogwarts charm. You simply can't help but to feel a

certain magic in this household, and it is not solely the artifacts...It is a shared family bond.

It is, and continues to be, a most amazing journey being a part of this families hobbies and lives. We live the excitement and adventure through their framing projects and continue to try and re-create the memories, moments and magic they get with each addition to their collection. So whether it is searching for just the perfect frame fit for an adventurer, preserving the memory of a family oriented Aussie Idol or spotlighting the man most American families shared Sunday evenings with growing up and still call "Uncle Walt", ArtWorld is so very thankful for the opportunity to share in these moments

and for being a part of

this families shared dreams.

Until Next Time...

50+ years of Custom Framing and counting!!

It's the 21st century and ArtWorld begins 2011 with its very first blog.

With 50 years and counting under our belt as one of the largest custom framing shops on the NE coast,  selecting a starting point is quite a challenge. Sure, we have framed artworks by and for many famous artist...Folks like Rafal Olbinski, Myron Waldman, (of Superman and Betty Boop Fame) Tony Randall and Don Oriolo are just a select few that are part of the ArtWorld family. We've had the pleasure of framing for the renowned Le Cirque and the Saint Patrick's Day parade committee too. (the signature shillelagh brought out every year to start the parade)
But, we've also framed the underwear of several Victoria Secret Models and a  guitar or two fondled by Pamela Anderson. So, it is quite a pickle for us to decide just where to begin. While we are deciding on the various histories and storytelling to share with you all, we also intend to share product information and special sales too, making sure that you all are kept up to date on everything ArtWorld.


So...Keep a lookout here for a blogful of information coming soon from all your friends at ArtWorld :)