Two Sisters Gallery
A Columbus Gem Finds Its New Character
By Monica Jones
Exploring the wonderful world of shopping Columbus has to offer, you might find yourself wandering through The Village on 13th in Midtown Columbus, and there you might just stumble upon Two Sisters Gallery and realize you’ve found something you didn’t even know you were looking for. More than just a refined art boutique offering exquisite local art and custom framing, there’s an unexpected charm and a refreshing personality which makes this long-standing establishment feel brand new. For the past two and a half years, that fresh perspective has been brought by Richard Edwards, the shop’s owner and quite the character himself.
The name “Two Sisters Gallery” hints at the rich history Richard inherited. For 26 years, two sisters, Lucille Flournoy and Frances Malone, built a beloved community staple. When they decided to retire, the shop faced an uncertain future. That’s when Richard, who’d previously worked in real estate and dabbled in antiques (even helping local luminary Clason Kyle with his estate), saw an opportunity. He felt a pull, a “little voice” in his head, telling him to make the leap. And so, the “two sisters” gained a “mister,” and a beloved Columbus institution was saved from fading away.
For Richard, this venture has been a refreshing change of pace. He’s found joy in the work, noting with a smile that he hasn’t “met an un-nice person since I started this.” It’s a far cry from the cutthroat world of real estate, and it allows his true nature to shine through—a nature defined by community and care. You see it in his dedication to his mother, his friends, and especially his bond with Clason Kyle, the “Queen Bee of Columbus”, who, at 96 years young, is known as a key figure in saving the Springer Opera House. Their ongoing bridge games are a testament to Richard’s commitment to those he holds dear.
Now, some folks in Columbus might think of Two Sisters Gallery as a bit on the expensive side, a relic of its past. Richard wants to set the record straight. While the shop has a long-standing reputation for quality, he’s worked hard to diversify the offerings and ensure there’s a frame for every need and every budget. He sources materials from vendors who give him deals, allowing him to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing the meticulous craftsmanship his regulars expect. As he puts it, “Come see what I can do for 50 bucks.”
The real magic of Two Sisters Gallery lies in its personal touch. Unlike big-box stores that offer limited, pre-set sizes, Richard’s shop provides true custom framing. Got an oddly shaped piece of art, or a cherished memento you want to display in a shadow box, complete with personalized matting courtesy of his new “fun toy,” a computerized cutter that can even hand-write messages? Richard and his skilled team can bring your vision to life, and can even repair damaged frames. This expertise is further highlighted by Alex’s Certified Picture Framer (CPF) designation through the Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA), a certification Richard is also actively pursuing. Once he achieves it, Two Sisters Gallery will be the only shop with this distinction within a 150-mile radius, ensuring unparalleled skill and knowledge for your treasured pieces. It’s about creating a piece that’s uniquely yours, built to last, much like a timeless antique compared to disposable furniture.
Beyond framing, Two Sisters Gallery is a vibrant showcase for local talent. The walls are adorned with original works by esteemed local artists like Susan Dolan, Ronnie Garner, Barbara Pound, Suzanne Reed Fine, and Holly Wolfe. You’ll also discover local photography from artists such as Susan Wirt and Lee Brantley, alongside consigned pieces from many astute late greats. Beyond these, you’ll find an eclectic array of unique finds: beautiful Raku pottery, distinctive handmade jewelry – that ensures you won’t see “all four ladies wearing the same necklace” at your next bridge lunch, and a charming collection of functional art crafted by Richard’s father, Bill Edwards, including sought-after cheese knife sets and coffee scoops and even screwdrivers, hand-turned from tropical hardwoods — perfect for one-of-a-kind gifts. Richard has even created a special section for self-published local authors, offering an outlet for their works that you won’t find at most mainstream bookstores.
Richard is a firm believer in supporting local businesses, and he embodies that philosophy daily by giving back to the community whenever he can. When you support Two Sisters Gallery, that investment goes back into strengthening the very fabric of Columbus. He invites everyone to stop by and experience the evolution of the shop firsthand.
Whether you’re looking to frame a cherished family heirloom, find a unique piece of local art, or simply discover a thoughtful gift, Richard Edwards and Two Sisters Gallery offer an experience rooted in quality, community, and genuine care. It’s a place where history meets modern artistry, all under the watchful eye of a true Columbus character.
Visit Two Sisters Gallery at 1330 13th Street. You can reach them by phone at (706) 322-2004. The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., closed Sunday and Monday. Learn more and connect online at twosisgallery.com, on Instagram @two_sisters_gallery, and on Facebook @twosisgallery.