“Art is indeed not the bread but the wine of Life.”
— William (Bill) Mutschler, Sr. (carved in the front steps of the Blue Easel)
I frequently go to the Blue Easel to get paintings framed. Bill, the owner, is the person who does a lot of the framing. He loves to talk, and we always have interesting conversations. He is about 85 years old, and still busy and productive and full of energy. It’s quite impressive; I’m sure he has more energy than I do!
And of course, I am always pleased with the beautiful frames he builds for me. Here are some photos from a couple recent paintings he framed. Both of these paintings are available for sale.
“Strawberries” oil on board, 8x8 inches (11.5x11.5 including frame)
“Red Tulips” oil on canvas mounted on board, 16x12 inches (not including frame)
available at Dwell Fine Art & Craft
Bill also framed this monotype below: “Muse, writing a song.” (Sold.)
Bill, busy at his work!
The inside of the Blue Easel is fascinating, it’s almost like a museum! In addition to frames, there are all kinds of other interesting objects like antique tools and old pieces of artwork. The building itself is very old, it was once a mill. The building is close to the Bushkill Creek, and often there is flooding in that area. Two years ago there was a really bad flood and also a heroic rescue by brave emergency workers. You can read that story here. Bill told me they are still dealing with damages from that flood, but luckily nobody was hurt.
So much to see! You could spend a long time poking around…
Recently two new occupants arrived at the Blue Easel: kittens! Bella and Barney are so cute, I can’t stand it. Every time we go, my son and I love to play with them. Barney comes out more readily; Bella is shy.
(If you are interested in having a kitten of your own, Bella and Barney have four more siblings that need to be adopted. Contact the Blue Easel.)
Frame shop kittens!
Kitten and Kid, being cute
There is such a nice personal touch at the Blue Easel, and I always enjoy my errands there. I never go when I am feeling rushed, I like to just enjoy the experience and have a nice long chat with Bill. On the way out, I say goodbye to Saint Francis, an impish toddler, and a goat.
Saint Francis
Impish Toddler and Goat
“Art is indeed not the bread but the wine of Life.” — carved in the front steps of the Blue Easel
The Blue Easel
2006 Stocker Mill Road, Easton PA, 18045
(610) 253-1131
Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 am- 5 pm