Art gallery retains its attention to detail

When you mention the name Waddell’s to locals, they immediately think of professional framing and excellent customer service, which is why the company has been a mainstay in the area for more than half a century. When the business was sold and reopened in a new location with new owners, the same attention to detail and respect for the Waddell legacy were carried over. Waddell’s Gallery of Distinction held its re-grand opening in May of 2024, showcasing a sweeping light-filled space framed with art and the art of framing.

Walking into the gallery space at 1200 Marshall St., Shreveport, you are enveloped by clean, crisp, welcoming décor, where art and framing share the spotlight. Divided bright gallery spaces showcase a variety of local and nationally recognized artists, representing a wide range of mediums, including acrylic, oil, collage and mixed media, among others. The style of art encompasses everything from traditional to iconic pop art. It is impossible to miss the swath of handmade butterfly wings that take flight over the front door, as well as the wonderful sculpture pieces sprinkled throughout the gallery.

Two walls devote attention to the framing side of the business. They are a work of art in themselves, with frame selections spanning all the colors of the rainbow in any style you need. Don’t worry about being overwhelmed by the choices, though; you are in great hands. Gallery Director Katy Huggs is waiting to help everyone find what they need, whether that is a work of art from the gallery, assisting an artist in framing their creations, or finding the perfect matting and frame for family heirlooms. She, along with long-time Waddell framer David Howard, can handle everything.

“David’s framing is his calling,” Katy says of her co-worker, who has been with Waddel’s since 2007. “He is so talented; customers travel out of their way for things that mean the most to them.”

Waddell’s Gallery of Distinction is located at 1200 Marshall St.

“As for my part,” Katy adds, “I am inspired by the creativity of working on the gallery side, but also on the framing, as they are both people-centered. A best day for me would be to work with a customer to find the perfect work of art and to see tears in the eyes of a customer who is holding a beautifully framed piece that belonged to their grandmother.”

One aspect of the business that is also expanding is hosting events, such as this past March, when Waddell’s Gallery welcomed the season in style with its Spring Pottery Fair. “The weather couldn’t have been more perfect,” Katy says, “blue skies, warm sunshine, and the gallery doors wide open, inviting the community in for a vibrant celebration of ceramic artistry.”

The fair featured the work of nine talented ceramic artists, each showcasing their own distinct style. Over 300 unique pieces were featured throughout the gallery, and guests were treated not only to incredible art but also to delicious food. From the moment the doors opened, the space buzzed with energy. “The event was packed from start to finish — a testament to both the artists’ talent and the enthusiasm of the local art-loving community.”

The gallery has also hosted paint parties, a Valentine’s Day pop-up and a month-long exhibition featuring the Hoover Watercolor Society, and they hope to continue that energy with an open house and other events in the future. Be sure to follow them on social media or sign up for their newsletter on the website so you don’t miss a thing.

Word of mouth and social media have brought a whole new generation of people looking to preserve their most treasured possessions, and it is an honor for Waddell’s to continue to be involved in that process.

Longtime Waddell framer David Howard and Gallery Director Katy Huggs continue the legacy of Waddell’s Gallery of Distinction.

“Maybe you have a piece of art that has been sitting in a closet waiting to be framed or family mementos you want to preserve to honor them. That is where Waddell’s not only excels but welcomes working with you. If you have a piece, you can just drop it off,” Katy says, “and we will find the perfect matting and frame combination to suggest, or if you want to be more involved, we welcome that too. Bring us your Red River Revel pieces to have them framed, even if you don’t know what you want, you can just leave them with us, we will put together suggestions and send them to you. We are here for you.”

Waddel’s Gallery of Distinction is connected to the Gator Dental Arts building at 1200 Marshall St., Shreveport. There is plenty of parking, and the hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Visit them on social media and their website, waddellsartgallery.com. You can contact the Gallery director, Katy Huggs, at (318) 865-6036.