Small Business Spotlight: Caplow Custom Frame & Restoration
Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at 4:08AMArticle by Becky Fillinger
Jane Westerlund in front of Caplow Custom Frame & Restoration
Jane with her sister, Judy Swatosh
Do you have artwork just waiting to be framed or restored? Jane Westerlund welcomes you to visit her beautiful shop at 4758 Grand Avenue S. You’ll find her there, along with her twin sister Judy Swatosh, working on such a variety of projects that I can’t even find the appropriate words to describe it. She welcomes visitors to just pop in and get to know her as well.
Q: You’ve owned Caplow Custom Frame & Restoration for almost 40 years. What have you learned about Minneapolis art collectors in that time?
A: I have learned so much from working with the area’s art collectors. Minneapolis art collectors are sophisticated! They collect everything from etchings to lithographs woodcuts, engravings, and oil paintings. This runs from the 1800s timeframe to contemporary. They want to be involved in the framing process. I work closely with the collector to choose the frame that makes the art stand out. The highest quality materials are used which artwork demands. The art collectors over time have moved toward contemporary art. Each art collector is very specific regarding what they collect. The depth of my knowledge has increased from the many years of experience and the variety of art projects. The art I work with has broadened my eye and I have learned about many periods and techniques.
Above and below, restoration of a large French billboard.
Metal collar - mounted to raw silk and custom framed
Q: Your LinkedIn profile lists many of your skills, which go way beyond custom framing. For example, you regilded an antique harp. How did you learn the expert repair and framing services you offer your clients?
A: My study of art has included gilding, different types of papers and skins. Color and design are a main study. Calligraphy has sharpened my eye. Nate Caplow (the prior owner of the shop – he was a fount of knowledge) taught me mold making and gilding. In addition, I have studied with many masters and continue to learn. I am a member of the Society of Gilders.
Q: You graduated from MCAD in 1960, one of the most culturally significant times for art in the 20th century. Were you a witness to Pop Art, Psychedelic Art Happenings, etc.?
A: The 60’s was a fantastic time for change in art, with so many influential artists including Jasper Johns, Andy Warhol, and many more. So yes, I was a witness to change. At that time, I veered in the direction of calligraphy and color and I studied under Donald Jackson, a calligraphy master.
Q: What is your favorite type of project?
A: There are so many projects, I love problem solving and bringing old pictures, frames and pictures back to life with restoration so they last for another 100 years.
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