Big news at Golden: Mark Golden has entered into an agreement to buy the boutique manufacturer Williamsburg Oil Paints from Beverly Plansky. The deal should be completed by June 1st. Williamsburg was founded in 1986 by Bev’s brother painter Carl Plansky. Carl passed away in October of last year at the age of 58. The memorial on the Williamsburg’s web site explains the essence of what Carl created, “What sets Williamsburg oil paints apart from many other paints on the market was Carl himself. No corporate decision dictated the economics of his paint or which colors to introduce.” In Golden’s careful hands, look for the legacy to continue!
Tombow Pencil Co. of Tokyo, Japan named Jeffery Hinn president and chief executive officer of its subsidiary, American Tombow, Inc. Hinn was promoted from from vice president of sales & marketing to president and CEO.
Jay Shapiro, one of the owners of Binders in Atlanta and Charlotte is headed to Duke University after doctors discovered a brain tumor through an MRI scan on March 5th. The visit to Duke will help determine the best course of treatment. We’re rooting for you Jay! Please keep Jay and family in your thoughts and prayers. If you would like to stay up to date on Jay’s fight or offer encouragement, visit the Caring Bridge Website.
Art Creations in Chattanooga, TN: Tony Mine’s mother Lilly passed away on February 24th after suffering a massive stroke. She was 94 years old. Lilly Mines started working at The Little Art Shop in Chattanooga 50 years ago and Tony bought the store in 1974. Continuing at the store, she was known for her happy personality and gracious spirit. Four days after her death, Tony’s daughter in law Cathy and son Jason welcomed into this world Jason Anthony Mines! Lilly would have been so proud!
It’s baby time for the art industry! Our very own Rachel Thompson and husband Alex announce the birth of Clementine Grace Thompson this past weekend. The stats please: 8.12 lbs and 21 inches long. Both Clementine and her parents are doing fine.
Former Michaels art materials buyer Mike Parker has landed a job at an Omaha general merchandise chain retailer name Pamida where he will be responsible for all of Kids, Boy and Girl, Infants and Toddler, and Kids equipment – Car seats, cribs etc.
The NAMTA election results are in:
DOMESTIC RETAILER (One Seat Available)
Kevin Lavin, DaVinci Artist Supply – New York, New York, USA
INTERNATIONAL SUPPLIER (One Seat Available)
Richard Goodban, ColArt Fine Art & Graphics/Winsor & Newton – Harrow, Middlesex, United Kingdom
DOMESTIC SUPPLIER (Three Seats Available)
Pete Cole, Gamblin Artists Colors Co. – Portland, Oregon
Barbara Schindler, Golden Artist Colors, Inc. – Lynbrook, New York
Frank Stapleton, MacPherson’s – Emeryville, California
It’s official: Conté Crayons and Pastels will be distributed in the USA by ColArt Americas beginning in the next few months. Previously the line was distributed by Elmer’s.