October marks National Art & Framing Month, in which frame shops, galleries, and other retailers celebrate with special events and programs promoting the enjoyment of art as part of daily life. It's an opportunity for everyone to "Picture the Possibilities" art and framing bring to homes, offices, and public spaces.

  The National Art & Framing Month Council is spearheaded by Director Vivian Kistler of Columba Publishing, Akron, Ohio. Kistler has served on the Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA) board of directors and received a PPFA award for Innovation. PPFA is a PMA member association. She has been a gallery and frame shop owner for more than 20 years and is well-known educator in the art and framing industry. Kistler is also an international speaker, columnist, and author of more than 30 books and videos.

  Several past and present PPFA board members also serve on the National Art & Framing Month Council including Fran Gray, Roney's Creative Picture Framing; John Pruitt, FrameWorks; Patricia Smith, Art Expressions Gallery; William Parker, Ambiance by Parker; Conni Henshaw, Elmer's Products Inc.; and Kerry Wilson, Windrush Gallery. The council helps frame shops and galleries develop programs and marketing plans to bring awareness to the value of art and framing, especially during October.

  Various articles, marketing ideas and materials are available on the National Art & Frame Month site for framers. Additionally, PPFA offers consumer articles for use, marketing tips, and other marketing tools, as well as a new consumer website at www.findapictureframer.com. PPFA members also can exchange marketing and promotion ideas at the Framers Corner online forum at www.ppfa.com.