Magis (pronounced màh-gis):
Founded on the principles of Diversity, Service, and Spirituality, Magis creates in men, lifestyles which strive to do “more” for humanity.

One of our give-back programs involves a day at the Ronald McDonald Children’s Hospital, dozens of acrylic paint colors, a crate full of raw wood picture frames and the enthusiasm of the young patients and their families to paint with us. Some activities take place in an activity room, others bedside for those too sick to venture out. At the end of the day, not only have we provided a break in the cycle of day-night-day and seemingly endless barrage of tests, but an art therapy project which yields a hand-painted picture frame that may be proudly displayed for years to come.

I am grateful for my relationship with LUMC, which affords me the opportunity to touch the lives, albeit briefly, of some brave young patients and their families.

In appreciation, one hospital administrator offered a Jesuit interpretation of our contribution:

     “On our campus we have a favorite Latin word, “Magis.” We recognize Magis behaviors among our staff and faculty and promote this as a way to provide excellence in service. Your work here is a great example of Magis.”

by Peter Gianopulos

Sometimes the difference between a stressful and acceptable hospital stay is the simple matter of the right art being on the walls.

There was a time, not too long ago in fact, when every hospital waiting room in the land seemed to be painted in mint-green hues. Pistachio and lime as far as the eye could see.

The prevailing wisdom said that cool greens had a soothing effect on patients, but Jan Marion, the current owner of H. Marion Framing stores in Glenview and Wilmette, knew better. He spent many years visiting hospitals with his ailing father, Harold, and saw the spaces for what they were: “scary,” “cold” and “institutional-looking.”

It’s one of the reasons Marion has devoted so much of his time and resources to the “healing art” movement, which seeks to comfort health-care patients (and their families) via soothing design schemes and inspirational art. (more…)

by Alyssa Taylor

The choice of frames on artwork makes a strong impact in the design of your home.

Jan Marion of H. Marion Framing and his team of designers have been in the framing business for over thirty years and has acquired a lot of useful knowledge on the subject.

Lead Design staff of H. Marion Framing at the grand opening of their new frame studio in Wilmette's Edens Plaza.

“There are certain techniques and materials that need to be used so that your art will last,” he says. “Both from a preservation standpoint but also from a quality of raw materials, we need to make sure that your piece will look as good in 5, 10, 50 years as it does the day you pick it up in the frame shop.”

When framing a collection of prints, drawings, or photographs, it’s wise to frame all of the pieces in similar profiles, giving the collection more impact, drawing attention to the work itself.

Many designers select simple black, ebonized frame profiles or a soft nickel or gold-leaf finish.

Marion explains that frames should complement their environment, as well as the art they hold. “From a design standpoint, our frames are seen as an interior finish,” he said. “A home that has exquisite finishes like hardwood, granite, real stone, custom millwork and designer furniture should have art and framing of a consistent quality.”

In their new Wilmette showroom Marion and his head designer, Pam Rosenberg offer numerous options for frame moldings and pictures. (more…)