Chris Buckle is the owner and operator of Picture It In A Frame. He was born and raised in Corner Brook and he lives and works in the city with his wife and daughter. Even after living away for a number of years, the lover of art, music, and community is confident that Corner Brook is the place for him.
After growing up in Corner Brook, Chris moved away for 12 years to earn both a BA and BSc degree, while also undertaking some studies in urban and rural planning. These studies in planning helped inform his decision to move back to Corner Brook, but even more influential on his decision was to be close to family and because of opportunities he saw here.
When he first returned to Corner Brook, Chris started training with a picture framer who worked out of his home. When the framer retired, Chris took over the business, later going on to take over Picture It In a Frame in the Valley Mall. While talking with Chris, we discussed the fact that many young people leave the area, either to head out west or to bigger areas such as St John’s in order to find work. Chris enjoys his work but stated that “Corner Brook is a great place to make a life, but it can be challenging to make a living.” That being said, he feels that the level of support he receives from the community has been invaluable in building his business. He believes that people in Corner Brook enjoy supporting local businesses, and that when they can, people will use the options that are available to them rather than ordering away.
Chris really enjoys being a part of the Corner Brook community. In the past he played bass for local bands and was on a community editorial board for The Western Star, for whom he wrote several editorial pieces. He remembers attending events like the Santa Claus parade when he was a child and continues to take part in and attend community events such as the annual Corner Brook Winter Carnival. Chris and his family love the outdoors lifestyle available on the West Coast, enjoying family hikes, bike rides, and visiting areas in Gros Morne.
Aside of his business and family life, Chris is well known for his love of music. Others tell of a younger Chris being the original metalhead and influencing their taste in music! He plays bass guitar and was part of the Corner Brook music scene for years.
Chris loves Corner Brook. He’ll tell you that himself, and you can see it when you’re speaking to him. He’s excited about the direction the community is taking and loves being a part of it. He recognises the struggles that can influence people’s decisions to stay in a place like this, but he’s positive about the opportunities we all have in Corner Brook. We have a vibrant arts scene and great community events. Chris is excited about raising his child here and giving her the great home base that he enjoys from Corner Brook.
At a time when many people are worried about the future of the city once the mill closes, he’s confident in Corner Brook’s ability to continue to grow, and to be a fantastic place to live. In his own words, “Corner Brook is too good to not succeed.”
Find out more about Picture It In A Frame by checking out their Facebook page or by dropping by their location in The Valley Mall.
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