About Us

The team of picture framers at The 45th Degree is made up of a group of artists, creators, writers, designers, who are all passionate makers of something-or-another. This crew of long-term locals come from a varied range of professional backgrounds. Collectively they make a high-skilled, creative picture-framing hub, right here in Wanaka.

 

Tony Lynch – Owner

Tony trained under his uncle Wellington based picture framer John Swan; he now has more than 20 years technical experience in the picture framing industry, both in New Zealand and abroad.

The 45th ethos is ground in Tony’s straight shooting, sharp-witted approach. He has an eye for design and a propensity for giving honest, straight-up, no-nonsense advice. Tony has a reputation for providing sound picture framing guidance and delivering a very high standard of service. His attention to detail and creative flair is evident in the framing work. He is a stickler for accuracy, process and in the end, happy clients.

Tony enjoys the Wanaka lifestyle and after 24 years in residence considers himself a local. He is can be seen cranking laps on Deans Bank on his electric mountain bike or online amongst the virtual motor racing community pulling laps at Bathurst.

 

Sharon Parker – Picture Framer

Sharon has been working as a picture framer at The 45th Degree for 8 years. She is a cheerful lady, whose smile goes for miles.

Sharon has lived in Wanaka for a couple of decades now. Prior to being a picture framer she owned a successful local sign company and she brings a valuable skill set to the 45th table. Sharon is an artist and a proficient graphic designer; she has rock and roll roots and snowboarding is in her blood.

Sharon is a delight to have in the workshop, show room and lunchroom. Her story telling is epic and her happy demeanour is an asset to the team. Shaz lives in Albert Town with her son and partner.

 

Kathryn Harper – Picture Framer and Picture Hanger

Kathryn Harper works as a picture framer and picture hanger for The 45th Degree. Kat frames pictures alongside the team in the workshop, as well going into peoples’ homes or businesses to hang artwork. Kat has the perfect skill set for this job as her background is in model making, a job that requires an extraordinary level of detail and care.

Kat is also a long time local; she has lived here for around 20 years. She is a published author and well-known public speaker. She is a passionate advocate for mental health, a Mum of two awesome kids and an awesome addition to the team at the 45th Degree.

 

Louis English – Picture Framer

Louis English is a qualified picture framer from the Welsh boarder town of Hay on Wye in the UK. He joins The 45th Degree with 10 years of picture framing experience under his belt.

Louis was trained by a bespoke picture framer and fine art printer, with over 35 years experience. This apprenticeship not only educated Louis in highly refined technical skills, it also fostered a love of the craft of custom framing.

Louis has an appreciation for the conservation of artwork; he also has unique experience with both picture and frame restoration encompassing retouching of oils and gilding techniques.

Louis is chuffed to be working in his area of trade on his travels and working with a team in the workshop who are happy to hear a yarn or two. Louis considers himself to be a keen, albeit fair-weather, outdoorsman; he likes walking and climbing on a fine day. When the weather gets rough you’ll find him listening to, or mixing vinyl music, or working on his Mk3 Volkswagens Golf.

 

The Business

The 45th Degree has been providing a professional picture framing service to Wanaka and surrounding areas for over 20 years. While drawing on knowledge accumulated over this time, the challenge is always to push the creative boundaries whether it be for a framing solution for a client, or creating new techniques or products.

The 45th Degree is all about innovation and thinking outside the square. The business is fully equipped with a workshop and spray paint booth ready to take on the most challenging of jobs, all the while striving for the best results for our customers.