Neil Layne graduated from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. As a Fine Arts Major, he spent a semester in Siena, Italy, where his fascination with the ancient world began. While studying pre-Renaissance Art, he was drawn to the patinas and surface finishes that would lead him into the antique restoration world. Upon graduating with a BFA in Painting, he apprenticed with local master craftsmen in New York and became skilled in the arts of painted finishes, gilding, woodcarving and fresco painting. Combining his knowledge and understanding of art history and antiques and following his passion for traditional technique, he has created a unique restoration and art studio.

 

Since the Studio was established in 1992, we have worked with leading art and antique dealers throughout the country as well as private collectors and museums. The Studio specializes in gilding restoration of 17th-20th century objects, including picture frames, mirrors, furniture and sculpture.
 

The studio is also known for creating gilt picture frames made from recovered barnwood. And, a brand new line, Mindful Mirrors, that combines images and oxidations with salvaged mirror glass for truly unique reflections.