FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos by Peri Hayes Francis Martin of FranKingstyle Tattoos recently launched his local gallery, FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos. A friend had formerly expressed that Francis would one day be painting for kings. “And I love Frankenstein,” Francis enthuses, which led to the name for his business venture. Throughout Francis’ career, he has explored an array of media. As a passionate curator, he envisions people experiencing the art in his gallery and learning about the human holding the brush. “The whole idea is an evolution of The Art Shop I had in Watford for 13 years; this was basically a place for me to create art, teach art and help artists showcase their work.” For Francis, art is about connection. Many of the featured artists are from Southern Ontario, including his eldest son. “We have an artsy stage for people to walk by the front window and see artists doing their thing. We welcome people in to see that artists are not just a product; you can get to know the person behind the art.” Exhibiting paintings, pottery, sculptures and more, Francis encourages, “What I’m looking for is art that has soul and quality. This is a misfit kind of gallery, showcasing various artists and creating space for their voices to be heard.”
moment of pause, as Francis offers, “We have benches for sitting and taking in the artwork.” Planning to host art social nights, Francis exclaims, “This helps us to grow. With AI, artists need to collaborate more than ever.” While these socials will be closed events, his art classes will be advertised online and in-studio following the grand opening this March. “Having space to create is super important for mental health. As for my teaching technique, I embrace the artist in them. Seeing people’s faces when they accomplish a new skill or finish a piece, this lights up my spirit.” Furthermore, Francis is developing a plan of action for supplying unhoused individuals with art materials – entailing a donation box to support this project. His ultimate goal is to nourish this art community, and contribute to local tourism: “I adapt to the needs of the people. I encourage people to visit FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos, and see what artists have to say.”
Located at 632 Talbot Street, FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. View Francis’ work on frankingstyleartandtattoos.com, as well as refer to ‘Frankingstyle Art Gallery’ on Facebook and Instagram for gallery updates and class announcements. With inquiries about the gallery, Francis’ commission work or to book a tattoo appointment, connect via social media or by phone at 519-619-5464.
“Beautiful artists are part of this, and I find myself walking around the gallery in awe.” Included in their permanent collection is Francis’ girlfriend’s late sister, Darcie Beckley. Regarding works for sale, Francis shares that the gallery will rotate every several months. With that, he assures the public that there is zero pressure to purchase a piece upon your visit. Frankingstyle Art & Tattoos is intended to elicit a grounding
tart,tangy, totally unscripted IMPR V night
Saturday April 18, 7:30pm IMPROV Night is back!
PSFT is excited to present a high-energy Improv Night featuring four hilarious Second City–trained improv artists. This one-night-only event promises a zesty night of unscripted chaos, sour scenarios and freshly squeezed punchlines!
Wear your favourite Hawaiian shirt for a chance to win a prize! Soak up the fresh, lemony vibes, and a night of improv that feels like sunshine.
PortStanleyFestival FestivalTheatre
519-782-4353 www.psft.ca
Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 3
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