Our Staff:

Marilyn Rishkofski
President/CEO

Drawing and painting from an early age, this interest led to a fine arts education degree from Wilkes University. Teaching art at all levels in public schools in Maryland and Delaware was just one experience that preceded the founding of a frame and art gallery. My years spent as a teacher and social worker, followed by the establishment of a craft gallery, The Creative Hand, in Exton, Pennsylvania laid the foundation for my opening Art Experience in 1982.

My enthusiasm for the art business continues despite, or perhaps because of, all the changes in the industry and economy. From running a one-woman operation, where I alone handled the sales, teaching and framing, to the present, where staff responsibilities are spread among two wonderful employees, life as the owner of an art and framing gallery continues to be full of surprises.

Framing: (1-800-299-3729)

Secondary Market:

     

We have access to the secondary market for "Sold Out" prints.

We have open lines to publishing houses, other dealers, and private collectors as sources for the print that you might want. We are aware of what is available and of the current secondary market pricing.

The response to our efforts to find prints for our collectors has been excellent. If we know that you are interested in a certain artist or type of art, we will notify you immediately if an opportunity to purchase can be found.

If you are looking for a specific print, contact us. We will do our best to find what you want. Our contacts are from Maine to Alaska and all points North and South.

Give us a try before you give up on that print you must have!

(800) 299-3729   |   (603) 471-1900   |   Fax: (603) 471-1981

Our History:

Established in 1982, Art Experience opened its doors as an art and frame shop at Carriage Depot in Amherst, New Hampshire. Drawing on past experiences in business, the work of talented craftsmen and local artists were also featured. Teaching adult and children's classes left the staff of one with a full schedule.

Increasing business prompted a move to Amherst's Salzburg Square. The years spent in this picturesque Bavarian shopping village brought many changes. With additional staff, the framing operation expanded. The focus of the gallery became limited edition prints by nationally known artists.

The first of many artist receptions were held. These events not only increased the public's awareness of limited editions, but also gave the staff and our customers the opportunity to meet many of the wonderfully talented artists whose work we feature in the gallery.

The need for even a larger space placed Art Experience in a quaint barn setting, again in Amherst. It was during this time that the limited edition art market was undergoing a series of changes. Educating customers and art collectors became very important. In addition to the large inventory of prints, original graphics and artist inspired gifts were introduced. Books written and illustrated by the artists we feature continue to be very popular with our customers.

This need for more staff, a larger work area, as well as a larger gallery space brought Art Experience to our present location in Bedford, New Hampshire. While always dedicated to great customer service and the best in picture framing, the staff is also delving into the world of frame restoration. This will enable us to offer even more varied services to our customer.

Just as the art market continues to change, and the framing industry continues to introduce new and better materials, Art Experience continues to define and refine its vision for its future.

As we enter our 23rd year, the staff of Art Experience celebrates the many special times we have had with our customers, our talented artists and the support people in this ever-changing world of art.

Shows:

Artist receptions are the highlight events of our gallery.
Both the staff and the customers look forward with great anticipation, to the personal appearance of nationally known artists. This is the one time the collectors can express their admiration for an artist, or ask questions about the artwork with the artist themselves. As for the staff, the relationships we develop with the artists are invaluable and lasting.

Artist Shows of the past years

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Sally Caldwell Fisher: Sally has gained international recognition with her artwork portraying New England coastal life. Hers is a world brimming with charm and simplicity. Attracted to the whimsical, she illustrates everyday life in rural America with her own personal sense of humor.

Edward Gordon: Edward was the focus of our first artist reception, since he was a New Hampshire resident and considered "local." Now known nationally for his beautiful photo- realistic paintings, the relationship continues, with Edward being one of our featured artists as well as one of the most popular with our customers.

Paul Landry: We truly entered the Captain's Garden with the work of Paul Landry. His floral landscapes and harbor scenes reminded us all of so many wonderful memories.

Judy Larson: Hidden Imagery was a new and different art form for our customers. Judy's enthusiasm for and mastery of her art made this reception one of the most informative and well attended.

Dean Morrissey: Dean made his first personal appearance with us. His wide audience for both his prints and his books appeal to all who enjoy this storyteller artist.

Will Moses: The most appearances at Art Experience by a nationally acclaimed artist goes to Will Moses. Will's work is constantly fresh and appealing to the many customers who have collected his work over the years. We all look forward to his personalizing his latest illustrated book.

Peter Sculthorpe: We were honored to have Peter visit Art Experience. His many local collectors enjoyed meeting the Brandywine artist whose landscapes give so much enjoyment.