Earlier this year at the PPFA Convention held in conjunction with the West Coast Art & Frame Expo in Las Vegas, I was honored to receive their highest award, the PPFA Lifetime Achievement Award.  It is almost impossible to communicate to friends and colleges what a huge honor this is, especially in light of the company that I share in having previously received this award… James Adler (2002), Paul Frederick (2006), Vivian Kistler (2009), Pat & Bill Bradley (2010), Charles Saucier (2012) and Julius Schultz (2013).  These folks are and were visionaries, and major contributors to the growth and professionalism of our industry.

When I returned home, I shared this story with a younger friend with whom I have great respect – his initial response was, “Don’t they give those awards to Dead people?”.  Of course he made me laugh, and although made in jest, sadly, several of the respected names that I listed above have already left us, despite the fact that their legacy and influences surround us today as picture framers.

The PPFA Awards recipients appeared in formal press releases from PPFA/PMA, and were also shared on the industry forums, but the presentation itself was only modestly attended and was sandwiched on the first day of the convention between many other meetings, seminars and activities.  Due to time restraints, and the number of awards, there was no time allocated for an acceptance speech.  In light of the significance of this award, I had actually prepared a few comments and for the record, would like to share those with you now…

John Ranes II, CPF, GCF – PPFA Lifetime Achievement Award

The undelivered acceptance speech… Continue reading →