It is a delight to share the news that Valerie Becker (co-owner of this clown college) is the first recognized Master Certified Picture Framer (MCPF) in Minnesota as designated by the Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA).

The MCPF designation is a professional recognition within the framing industry that indicates the recipient takes their framing very seriously.  Before you can become a MCPF, you need to become a Certified Picture Framer. which is a three hour examination that focuses on framing in a completely archival fashion.

Once you achieve CPF status, you need to re-certify your CPF status after four years and be a professional framer for five years before you are eligible for the MCPF accreditation.

The MCPF is a hands-on practicum, where four different framing subjects are framed (print, fabric, canvas and object art) with advanced framing elements. Each piece is dis-assembled and evaluated.  A fifth piece is framed on-site and on-demand in ninety minutes under peer review.

There are fewer than 60 MCPF professionals in the world, so it is kind of a big deal.

Way to go Val!  We are so proud of you.