Over the past 23 years Alan P. Shuptrine has emerged as a leading practitioner in the centuries-old art of carving and water-gilding fine frames, furniture, and objects d’art. Alan is most sought after for his mastery in one-of-a-kind unique frames for fine paintings. Through his companies, Gold Leaf Designs and Gallery and Alan Shuptrine Fine Art, he has established relationships with museums, galleries, private collectors, and artists. His desire to pursue a career in the arts of framing, gilding, and restoration grew out of his natural inclination and love of the fine arts. Born a son of Hubert Shuptrine, a nationally recognized watercolor realist, Alan was drawn to the dying craft of gilding by first building frames for his father’s works in 1985. To become the master gilder he is today, Alan was schooled in Liberal Arts at The University of the South and the University of Tennessee. In 1986, Alan sought the tutelage of his uncle, James A. Shuptrine, who was also a master gilder and craftsman. Since then, Alan has apprenticed with gilders and fellow artisans in New York, San Francisco, London, and Paris. He is an active member of The American Institute of Conservation, the Society of Gilders, and is the President and Founder of The Master Craftsman’s Society. He has won numerous awards both regionally and nationally for his craft.

In addition to carving and gilding, Alan follows his father’s talent in watercolor. Each of his watercolors is accented and displayed in a one-of-a-kind frame, designed and handcrafted by Alan. The marriage of his realistic watercolors and uniquely crafted frames reflects his innate ability to create artwork that extends beyond the canvas.