About Meuer Art & Picture Frame

About Meuer Art and Picture Frame Company

Meuer Art and Picture Frame Company is the oldest continuously operating picture frame business in the Madison area. Established in 1916 by Roman and William Meuer the first store served university artists, photographers and collectors who lived in the Capitol and University campus area. Roman and William soon ended their partnership, but the business continued under Roman’s management.

Meuer Art moved among various locations on State Street but maintained a steady clientele, even during the depression when customers were extended “pay when you can” credit. Bob Meuer, an Air Force navigator, went to work for his father after World War II and eventually took over the business. Framing technology included a spray booth, mat cutting by hand and on-site gold leafing.

In 1974, Meuer Art expanded to a new location at “the old gas station” across University Avenue from Smoky’s. Within a few years, Meuer Art left State Street entirely, and in 1983 the store was moved a few hundred yards east, to what is now the Shorewood Shopping Center. This location provided more display space for sample frames, colored and specialty mats.

In 1988, after more than 40 years in the business, Bob Meuer sold the business to Chuck Brei and retired.

Chuck soon doubled the size of the store and created a gallery of limited edition prints and originals, featuring local artists and wildlife art. By acquiring the inventory of Stanton & Lee, Meuers became a major outlet for Owen Gromme prints and even originals. A long-time Badger fan, Chuck also printed two Rose Bowl posters and developed an inventory of Badger, Packer and other sports prints and memorabilia. We also were the first shop in the area to invest in a computerized mat cutter.

In 2004, Chuck moved the store west, to the intersection of Old Sauk and Junction Roads. The new location provides more gallery space, more display space for frames and mats, excellent work shop space and better parking.We’ve also added a complement of Chinese art and sculpture, purchased during recent visits to China.

Our employees remain the biggest asset at Meuer Art and Frame, having combined experience of over 170 years! Paul Tresch with over 40 years experience and a former instructor at MATC now works part-time. Customers know there is virtually nothing about framing he does not know. Karen Juno, serving as manager, has brought her 25 years of experience and can be found at the store most days. She has framed everything from a single button to a violin to a full length wedding dress. Nicole Hovland is new to the store but has managed stores in Rochester, Minnesota and brings a wealth of creativity and knowledge. Jim Keip (JK) makes most of the frames by hand and is also a ferrier (shoes horses) when not riding his horse Mike. Our part-time employees Becky Grant, Michael Perez, Susie Olson and Ellen Montei have a combined 30 years in the business. Chuck’s son Tom is occasionally on-site when he isn’t away at school, and has taken over the design and management of our web site. We all depend on guidance from Marsh Sergenian, of TJS Additions, and his humor to keep us loose. And, we now have Mable, a gray, tan and white calico cat, who pretty much rules over everyone.

In 2006, we will have been in and around Madison for 90 years. While our locations have moved and the way we work has modernized, we are still about the same thing –personal service by experienced professionals. From Renoir to your son or daughters kindergarten memorabilia, we know your piece is special and we treat it – and you – that way.