History of Beard Galleries: Founded in 1886
From 1886 to 1938, the Beard Art Galleries served as the focal point for art collectors in the Upper Midwest. People flocked to founder/owner Harington Beard's art rooms not only to buy works, but to learn about great art. Beard's specialty was the group of emerging Minnesota artists including the great Alexis Fournier who had his first showing at the Beard Art Galleries. In 1938, the firm fell victim to the depression. Its name was purchased and continued as "Joseph Walton & Co-The Beard Art Galleries", a well regarded art and antique business, which closed in 1980. In 1983, Beard's grand-nephew, Richard Beard Thomson revived the Beard Art Galleries in the tradition of its original founder.
History of Vern Carver Gallery: Founded in 1961
Vern Carver began what is now the oldest, most prestigious custom framing studios in the Twin Cities. At its start, the gallery offered a fine selection of original lithographs, etchings, and serigraphs by modern greats such as Appel, Dali, Miro, and Calder. In 1997, the gallery found its home in the LaSalle Plaza in downtown Minneapolis. |  |