Our name is inspired by one of Pawleys Island’s most enduring legends—the Gray Man. Said to appear before storms, the Gray Man is a mysterious figure who watches over the island, quietly warning those in his path to seek shelter. Locals say that homes visited by the Gray Man are often spared from harm—a gentle guardian in gray.

Much like the spirit of the legend, our gallery and frame shop exist to preserve what matters most—your art, your memories, your stories. Since 1980, we’ve been helping the community frame everything from cherished family heirlooms to local artwork, treating every piece with the same care and respect as if it were our own.

We see our role as part preservationist, part storyteller—and maybe just a little bit guardian.

While custom framing can be expensive upfront, the quality, craftsmanship, and preservation it offers makes it a valuable investment—especially for irreplaceable or sentimental pieces. Here's why: 

Quality Materials

Custom frames are made with high-quality materials, such as conservation-grade mats, UV-protective glass, and solid wood frames. These materials are designed to protect your artwork and preserve it for years, unlike cheaper, mass-produced framing options.

Expert Craftsmanship

Custom framing is a detailed, labor-intensive process that requires skill, precision, and time. Every piece is carefully measured, cut, and assembled by hand to ensure it fits perfectly, is securely mounted, and beautifully showcases the artwork. This level of craftsmanship demands both experience and close attention to detail, which is why custom framing often comes at a higher cost—it’s not just about the frame, but the expert care that goes into preserving something meaningful.

Customization

Unlike ready-made frames, custom framing offers a tailored solution. Each piece is measured, designed, and constructed to fit your specific artwork or item, giving it a unique, personalized touch. This level of customization naturally costs more than selecting from a pre-made frame.

Conservation & Preservation

We use preservation-grade materials that protect the artwork from fading, warping, or deteriorating over time. This is especially important for valuable or irreplaceable items. The focus on long-term care adds an additional layer of cost compared to standard framing.

Personalized Service

At Gray Man Gallery, we work closely with you to select the perfect frame, mat, and glass for your piece. The level of customer service and attention to detail you receive during the consultation and design process is another factor that adds value to the service.

Durability & Longevity

Custom frames are built to last, providing durable protection for your artwork or keepsake. The investment ensures that your piece remains in excellent condition for years, sometimes even generations, making it a worthwhile cost in the long run.

We provide repair, restoration, and cleaning services for wooden frames as part of our framing process. However, we do not offer repairs for plastic or metal frames, nor do we offer art restoration services.

We strive to provide fast, efficient service—without ever compromising on quality. And yes—if you select one of our prints and pair it with one of our ready-made frames, we can often have it assembled for you the very same day, sometimes even while you wait!

Yes, we do all our framing work in-house. Every project is handled by our skilled team right here in Pawleys Island, allowing us to provide the personalized service and attention to detail that makes each piece unique. We take pride in ensuring the highest quality craftsmanship tailored to your needs.

We do! We'll carefully stretch your canvas and get it ready for framing or hanging.

Yes—we’ve got you covered! Our shop carries a wide selection of readymade frames in standard sizes—perfect for quick, easy framing without the wait. Stop by to find the perfect fit for your art, photos, or posters!

Yes! We custom-cut glass to perfectly fit your artwork or photos.

We’ve moved—and we’re so excited to welcome you to our new location: 9841 Ocean Highway in Pawleys Island. You’ll find the same great service you’ve come to expect, now in a fresh new space with beautiful natural light and much better parking. We can’t wait to see you there!

Do we ever! Big or small, we adore them all—feel free to bring your pupper when you visit! We’re proud to support local organizations like All4Paws and Salty Dogs Senior Rescue.