“We’ve always been community-driven,” Vice President Brent Howardn said. “We’re known for our custom print and frame work and our local gallery, but lately, it’s also been about using what we do best—art—to make a difference.”
From Candlelight Ranch Foundation’s Light a Path auction to projects for the American Heart Association and Texas Humane Heroes, Art Direct has spent the past year helping turn creativity into impact. Each collaboration merges artistry and philanthropy, whether it’s framing one-of-a-kind auction pieces or hosting gallery events that directly support local causes.
“Art is connection,” Marketing and Gallery Coordinator Giovanna Martin said. “When we can use that connection to raise funds or awareness for a great cause, it’s the best part of what we do.”
Founded in 1998 by George Prichard, Art Direct began online, blending an artist’s eye with entrepreneurial savvy. Over time, their reach grew, shipping more than 40,000 pieces a year through platforms like Amazon, Wayfair and Walmart—and so did their ability to give back locally.
“Because of our online buying power, we’re able to keep materials in stock and pricing fair,” Prichard said. “That lets us support community events and charity projects without sacrificing quality or turnaround.”
Today, Art Direct’s Cedar Park location serves as both a full-service print and frame shop and a vibrant local gallery, a place where creativity meets community. The showroom walls showcase more than 70 local artists, many exhibiting for the first time, and the space regularly transforms for art shows, fundraisers and collaborative events.
“We learned that if we take care of the locals and artists, they take care of us,” Howard said. “That’s been our story from the start.”
As the giving season arrives, Art Direct is leaning even more into that mission by connecting art, heart and service.
“Every frame, every print, every event, there’s an opportunity to give back,” Martin said. “Whether that’s through supporting artists or helping a cause like Candlelight Ranch or Humane Heroes, we’re here to make an impact that lasts far beyond the walls.”
Art Direct’s five-year plan includes expanding across Austin while keeping Cedar Park as its creative hub. But no matter how much they grow, one thing will remain unchanged: their belief that art can make communities stronger.
“Rather than focusing on how to make more money, we’ve always cared about people,” Martin said. “If our artists, clients and community thrive, we thrive.”
Through its enduring commitment to creativity, compassion, and connection, Art Direct continues to frame not just artwork, but the heart of Cedar Park itself.
Visit Art Direct at 720 S. Bell Blvd., Bldg. 9A or online to learn more about their work and charitable partnerships.
The above story was produced by the Art Direct team with Community Impact's Storytelling team, using information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
