By Taytum Marler

Hedgcock’s Framing Studio has been a staple of Kernersville, one that has been going strong since 1977. The beloved frame shop now belongs to Corby Eisbacher and his wife, Tracie. Both grew up and still adore living in Kernersville. Richard leaves the business in good hands as he passes the torch, and is excited to see what the Eisbacher’s will do with the frame shop in the future.

Corby began working part time for Hedgecock in 1987, when he was a sophomore in high-school. That summer a seed was planted and a friendship was born. With a lot of guidance from Richard, and life lessons learned, that part time job blossomed into a love for Custom Framing that rivals the passion Corby has for Art. In 1991, Corby became a full time employee and is now going on 37 years at the frame shop. While working there, Corby married Tracie, and then had two beautiful daughters, Kaitlyn and Christina. The girls are already involved in the business, as Christina is already answering the phone and Kaitlyn is learning to cut mats. It was made clear that with all the ups and downs they may face, this family will trust God faithfully through it all.

They have decided to keep the essence of the frame shop the same, with a few minor changes. They are changing the name to R. Hedgecock’s Framing Studio 5:16 with a new sign that also has the phrase coined by Richard, “It Is Worth The Trip.” When asked why the 5:16 on the end of the name, they explained how it was for Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” This is a verse Corby continues to live by and show through his artwork, framing, and interactions with customers and the community. Corby said, “That was one of the things that Richard has always done, he always let his light shine. He was always there to help and listen if you needed it, and not judge on first impressions.”

Along with a new name and new look, Corby’s passion for painting will fill the shop as his Watercolor Artwork is displayed. Not only will customers be able to see Original pieces, but also have an opportunity to purchase collections from Art By Corby on canvas and print. Corby said, “Not only is the subject I paint important to me, but the color is the life I breathe into the painting.” He thanks the Lord every day for his gift of art.

As for things to look out for in the future: Ideas of bringing in local artists, art lessons, and supporting the community were mentioned by the couple. Corby simply wants to share his knowledge and the skills he has acquired after 37 years in the buisness. Corby is excited to see what new framing challenges come his way. All mediums such as prints, original paintings, digitally restored photos, posters, diplomas, needlework, medals, clothing, flowers, and this year, even a wedding dress!

Designing and creating for customers is key. It is clear that even with this changeover, Richard is still in the shop. His influence on both Corby and Tracie over the last few decades has inspired them to take on this new challenge. Corby made it clear that Richard was not only his boss but also a friend, Father-figure, teacher, brother— whatever Corby needed at the time. Even though there is a passing of the torch, so to speak, Corby said, “It is always gonna be Richard’s frame shop to me”, and plans to honor that the best he can.

With both Corby and Tracie, you can see their desire to continue the Hedgcock legacy and make the people of Kernersville proud. All the customers who have come into the shop have slowly turned into lifelong friendships, and both Corby and Tracie made it known that they were so grateful for those friendships and their support through this transition!

Give them a call at (336) 996-5211 or stop by their storefront,
105 N Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284.