Getting To Know Us

Artworks began in 1986 as an art gallery and framing shop. Artworks provided an outlet for Lotus MacDowell’s original watercolors and limited-edition prints. Lotus is the owner of Artworks and an artist in her own right. She is a successful businesswoman who resides in West Virginia. Over the years, with Lotus at the helm, we’ve built a strong community of patrons and fellow artists. Artworks is powered and navigated by an all-women staff.

We’ve faced a fair number of challenges, including a devastating fire in the fall of 2019 at the retail space - which Lotus owned and shared with other local businesses. The fire tore through Artworks and took everything we had with it. We attribute our resurrection to a hard-working staff and a supportive community. We relocated and reopened our business in only 50 days. It was quite an accomplishment!

Today Artworks offers paintings and giclées (digital prints) by Lotus MacDowell. Lotus’ painting depicts unmatched realism in a watercolor medium. She specializes in buildings and cityscapes and her subject matter comes from local landmarks and beyond.

“Custom Picture Framing, Art and Gift Boutique” has become our catch phrase over the years. We feel that it encompasses what we do but doesn’t tell the extent of our quality, quantity, or capabilities. We continue to evolve and innovate, incorporating special presentation techniques alongside conservation practices in picture framing so you can enjoy your piece of art for years to come. Our gift selection is a remarkable addition to our shop with creative, original and unique gift lines.

This website will enable you to have some insight but feel free to call us with questions as we pride ourselves on customer service.

Meet Our Owner

Lotus MacDowell

Lotus Averil MacDowell, known for her meticulous depictions of objects and scenery is the owner of Artworks. She has been painting professionally since 1972.

Lotus' medium is primarily watercolor, using a controlled approach to create accuracy in both rendering and color. Her subjects reflect her interests in travel, architecture amd the study of light and shadow.

Lotus recieved her BFA from West Virginia University. Her works are in private and corporate collections throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia.