The Workshop

Specialties

The Workshop is a full service custom picture framing and gilding studio. Specializing in hand crafted finishes, ranging from painted and stained wood, lacquer work and water gilt gold and silver leaf. Our services are available for application to frames, furniture, mirrors, objets d’ arts as well as architectural gilding.

History

Established in 1990.

Originally opened in Vancouver, B.C. circa 1990 by master gilder Brian Dedora, who was trained by the exemplary Canadian painter and picture framer William Kurelek. The Workshop has operated in Vancouver for over two decades providing clientele from all over Canada and internationally with the finest dedicated gilded picture frames and unique custom finishing work available.

The Workshop continues today to carry on a tradition of fine craft that traces its lineage back to the most prestigious gilding studios of London, England under the skilled hand of Jonathan Syme, an apprentice of Dedora’s elegant gilding style and the next link in the chain of gilders ensuring the preservation of fine picture framing for discerning clientele.

Meet the Business Owner

Jonathan S.

Business Owner

The Workshop is owned and operated by Jonathan Syme, a B.F.A. recipient from the Alberta College of Art and Design, he is also a practicing Vancouver artist. As a lifelong student of art Jonathan has a keen eye for colour and design, a sensitivity to artwork and a deep understanding of art history, contemporary and period styles.

After an extensive three year apprenticeship under the scrutinizing tutelage of master gilder Brian Dedora, Jonathan had the opportunity to take over The Workshop in January 2011. He now continues the traditions at a wonderful new location off Commercial Drive.

You will find confidence in his combined education in fine art, his dedication to standards of excellence in his craft and that this expertise will result in the perfect unison between frame and artwork.