Vivian Carli Kistler was a well-known speaker and instructor for the picture framing industry and was known for her entertaining and informative presentations. She founded Columba Publishing in 1984 and produced the Library of Professional Picture Framing in addition to authoring over 20 more books and hosting over 15 videos. Over one million of her books and videos have been sold. She wrote articles for Picture Framing Magazine (PFM), Art World News, Profile Magazine and DECOR Magazine. She was also a former Senior Chairholder for the Color Marketing Group.
Vivian’s work with PPFA included service at both the local Chapter and national levels. She created and developed National Picture Framing Month to promote public awareness of the craft.
Vivian held professional certifications of Master Professional Picture Framer (MCPF) from the Professional Picture Framers Association, and Guild Commended Framer with Honors (GCF), from the Fine Art Trade Guild in the United Kingdom.
She was awarded the PFM Lifetime Achievement Award and the PMA Distinguished Service Award. In 2010 PPFA honored her by renaming their prestigious award to The Vivian Kistler Lifetime Achievement Award. She was awarded the PPFA Award For Innovation in 1999, and the PPFA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009.
