Alan’s natural affinity for the fine arts grew under the encouragement of his father, the late Hubert Shuptrine, a nationally renowned watercolorist. Beginning by building frames for his father, Alan began to master the dying craft of gilding. Upon completing his studies in Liberal Arts at The University of the South and The University of Tennessee, Alan sought the tutelage of his uncle, James Shuptrine, who was a master gilder and craftsman. Since then, Alan has apprenticed with master gilders and fellow artisans in New York, San Francisco, London, and Paris.

Through collaborative research, apprenticeships, and self-taught experimentation, Alan has developed an artistry and attention to quality and detail that has placed his gilded works and restorations in leading museums and private collections nationwide. An active member of the American Institute of Conservation, the Society of Gilders, the South Eastern Regional Conservation Association, the Southeastern Museum Conference and the American Association of Museums, Alan has won numerous regional and national awards for his craft. He is also the founder of the Master Craftsman’s Society. Now CEO and owner of Gold Leaf Designs & Gallery and Alan Shuptrine Fine Art, Alan strives to provide clients with the best service, the finest 19th, 20th, and 21st-century American fine art and art conservation, and the most beautifully handcrafted frames in the country.