About Ashley | Salix Fine Framing

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My name is Ashley Jackson, and I run Salix Fine Framing, a specialist framing studio based in Shirebrook, Derbyshire.

 

I work on an individual basis, offering bespoke picture framing, conservation framing and object framing, with a particular interest in the careful presentation and preservation of artwork and objects.

 

My approach to framing has been shaped by a longstanding interest in craftsmanship, museums, natural history and the preservation of objects. I believe that framing is about much more than simply putting something behind glass. The frame, mount, materials and method of construction should be carefully considered to complement the object while providing the appropriate protection for its future.

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From IT to Picture Framing

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For more than thirty years, my professional career was spent in the IT industry, working with some of the UK's largest organisations. Although that career developed strong technical, organisational and problem-solving skills, I increasingly wanted to work with my hands and to create something tangible.

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Outside of my professional career, I had always maintained a strong interest in museums, archives and natural history. This led to volunteering at the Natural History Museum in London, serving as a Trustee of the British Ornithologists' Club, and undertaking historical research that has taken me into the archives of some of the UK's most significant libraries and collections.

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In 2025, following redundancy, I decided to make a complete change of direction. I trained in picture framing in London and discovered a craft that brought together many of the things I value: practical skill, problem-solving, attention to detail, creativity and the preservation of things that matter.

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Museums, Collections and Conservation

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Alongside Salix Fine Framing, I also work as a Casual Gallery Assistant at Mansfield Museum.

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Working within a museum environment has given me an even greater appreciation of the importance of careful handling, interpretation, presentation and preservation. It complements my work at Salix and reflects the same interest in giving important objects the care and attention they deserve.

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Whether I am working with a museum object, a piece of artwork, a family photograph or a treasured piece of memorabilia, I approach each item individually and consider what it needs rather than simply applying a standard framing solution.

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A Personal Approach to Picture Framing

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Salix Fine Framing was founded with a studio-based, appointment-led approach, rather than as a conventional retail framing shop, I don't operate fixed opening hours, so if you're busy during the day, I'll arrange a time that suits you.

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This gives me the freedom to spend time with each client and each piece without the pressure of a busy shop floor. You can visit my workshop by appointment, or I can visit you at home where required. Collection and delivery can also be arranged, particularly for larger, valuable or delicate pieces.

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I believe choosing a frame should be an enjoyable and considered part of the process. There is time to look at different mouldings, mountboards and glazing options, discuss how they work with the artwork and consider how the finished piece will sit within its surroundings.

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For particularly personal or valuable items, privacy is equally important. Client confidentiality is of the utmost importance, and I treat every piece entrusted to me with discretion and care.

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Craftsmanship and Conservation Framing

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My practice is rooted in craftsmanship, traditional techniques and quality over speed.

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Where appropriate, I use conservation-grade materials and specialist mounting techniques designed to protect artwork and objects for the future. I am particularly interested in unusual or challenging pieces where a standard framing solution isn't necessarily appropriate.

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I am also exploring more traditional approaches to finishing and colouring wood, experimenting with natural pigments and plant-based dyes for staining and colouring wooden mouldings. This is an ongoing area of experimentation, combining my interest in natural history with the practical craft of framing and the possibilities offered by naturally derived materials.

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My aim is not simply to produce a frame, but to create something that feels as though it was made specifically for the object it contains.

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The Salix Fine Framing Workshop in Shirebrook

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My workshop is located within Shirebrook Business Centre, in the former station office of the listed building on the Robin Hood Line.

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From this small studio, I offer a personal, flexible and professional picture framing service to clients across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and the surrounding areas.

 

Workshop visits are by appointment, allowing time to discuss your project without the pressure of a busy retail environment. If required, I can also visit you at home, with collection and delivery available for suitable projects.

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A Framing Service for the Things That Matter

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If you have something you'd like to frame — whether it is a treasured family photograph, an important piece of artwork, a collection of memorabilia or something rather more unusual — I'd be very happy to discuss it with you.