“We are known as a custom print and frame shop, as well as a small local gallery with local artists,” Vice President Brent Howard said. “We do just about anything artwork related: deliveries, installs, framing, printing and canvas stretching.”
Art Direct started in 1998 as an online store, where founder George Prichard combined his artistic background with an entrepreneurial vision. As demand grew, so did the company’s ambitions. By March 2021, Art Direct expanded into a full-service retail storefront in Cedar Park, quickly becoming a trusted resource not just for artists, but for homeowners, businesses and collectors looking for high-quality framing, printing and installation services. While the retail space has flourished, Art Direct’s online presence remains a crucial part of its success.
“Because of everything we do online, we actually have better buying power with our vendors,” Prichard said. “We’re shipping more than 40,000 pieces a year through Amazon alone, not including our other online avenues like Wayfair and Walmart. That volume allows us to buy materials—foamcore, glass, acrylic—at better prices than our competition. The two sides working together help keep pricing competitive while still maintaining our speed since we keep materials in stock.”
This unique balance between online efficiency and retail service has helped Art Direct grow. Art Direct’s growth has been fueled by its commitment to exceptional customer service.
“We learned that if we take care of the locals and artists, they take care of us,” Howard said. “We’ve really grown lately through word-of-mouth marketing.”
Beyond individual clients, Art Direct has built strong commercial partnerships with major brands including Nike Running Store, Meta and the Moody Center, as well as institutions such as the University of Texas.
“We treat everybody like family,” Howard said. “Once you get one frame done, you’re in the Art Direct family.”
Art Direct isn’t just about framing; it’s also a gallery space where creativity flourishes. The showroom features works from both emerging and established local artists, many of whom are exhibiting their work in a gallery setting for the first time.
“For a lot of these artists, they never even considered themselves professionals,” said marketing and gallery coordinator Giovanna Martin. “Watching that realization click is so exciting.”
As Art Direct continues to grow, the team has ambitious plans. They aim to open additional locations across Austin, with Cedar Park remaining their central hub.
“Our five-year plan is to have four to eight locations surrounding Austin, then expand to Houston, Dallas and San Antonio,” Howard said.
At its core, Art Direct remains dedicated to uplifting artists and clients alike.
“I believe Art Direct has grown so quickly because rather than focusing on how to make more money, we've cared about the consumer and the artist,” Martin said. “We help artists grow their business because we figure that if they continue to grow, they'll take us with them.”
Through its unwavering commitment to creativity, community and customer care, Art Direct is not just shaping spaces with art but also shaping lives. With its innovative spirit and expanding vision, they are poised to leave a lasting legacy in Cedar Park and beyond.
Visit Art Direct today at 720 S. Bell Blvd., Bldg. 9A, or go to their website to learn more about the company.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
