C A Tupa Gift Gallery and Frame – Vendor Spotlight
Nestled in central Wisconsin, C A Tupa Gift Gallery and Frame offers original watercolors, affordable picture framing and repairs on frames, silver jewelry and metalwork by artist Chuck Tupa. Just like the real thing, only smaller, Chuck hand makes the mini terrace chairs that are a WiscoBoxes favorite.
Location: Cross Plains
Products: watercolor prints and mini terrace chairs
Website: facebook.com
Established: 2002
Getting Started
Coming from a family of artists, Chuck started painting at a young age. In his free time, he began playing with watercolors and was inspired to pursue art as a career based on the support from his family and friends. In 2002, Chuck began selling his own pieces as well as working at a framing shop in Cross Plains. After nearly a decade at the framing shop, Chuck took over the business, incorporating his gallery into the space. Within a few months of owning the shop, the business was relocated to a new building which provided more light for his studio and is closer to downtown Cross Plains.
Inspiration
Although he enjoys painting many different subjects, scenes of downtown Madison and UW–Madison are commonly featured in Chuck’s watercolors. Working from his photography, Chuck’s paintings are often inspired by nature, crowds and sightseeing.
Terrace Chairs
His terrace chair design came to life when he discovered a few thousand Copenhagen Tobacco tins in a house he purchased at auction. The first chairs were made using a water jet to cut the design in the metal and each chair took over an hour to make. According to Chuck, the first chairs looked very primitive in comparison to his current design which is laser cut. In three years, the mini terrace chairs have sold consistently due to their unique and iconic design. You can find Chuck selling terrace chairs each Saturday at the top of State Street during the Dane County Farmer’s Market.
Wisconsin
Chuck especially enjoys the Northwoods with beautiful parks, lakes and fishing. The vibrant art and culture in the Madison area, the supportive artist community and the natural beauty of the region encourage and inspire Chuck’s work.
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