The dust has settled and Hramiec Hoffman Studio & Gallery in Harbor Springs is now complete. Standing at the forefront is H.H.’s co-founder Mark Hoffman, staff manager and self-styled numbers hooligan.

Producing artwork is Mary Hramiec-Hoffman. Those familiar with Mary's back story already know of her beloved childhood in northern Michigan, and her annual treks around the U.S. with her family of ten soaking up Americana, beaches, missions and off the beaten track artists' studios in one of America's first motor homes expertly fashioned out of a GM delivery truck by her father. Some of Mary's early work were little wooden figures hand made and decorated with millinery items. The crowning characteristic was their hair—created from matted fur clipped from the family dog. The dog didn't mind; Mary was pleased with her sales; and her mother was aghast. More pets consisted of a flock of chickens and 16 rabbits that she routinely dressed in handmade little velour shirts. Yes, it was quite an experience visiting the Hramiec (ram'ik) compound back in the day, complete with her brothers flapping around with their beach towels tied around their necks playing "bird football."

Sorry guys, it was integral to the storyline, but it is what has transpired during her adulthood that prompted you to pick up the Arts & Artists publication—artwork—so here's the important stuff: Mary's true passion, a traditional collection of landscapes in oil, and her whimsical "Happy Series" with polka dot skies has accelerated acclamation into the heart of northern Michigan, and Mark and Mary are very grateful. The motto of their new studio gallery is "where every purchase is a gift" because a portion of all proceeds is donated to charity.

 A potpourri of summer freshness is wafting through our new studio & gallery. Please visit the bright green building at 6911 M119 in Harbor Springs.

(231) 526-1011
www.hramiechoffman.com