Francine: The Person Behind the Paint

Francine: The Person Behind the Paint

About a week ago I sat down with Francine West to discuss what she was working on for the upcoming Selfie exhibit, and how things were coming along. I was hoping to get to know her better and be able to answer a few questions I had jotted down in my notebook. I had a slight idea of where I thought our conversation would take us, but I never could have imagined where it would end up. I have known Francine all my life. She painted my first bedroom, and she has been a part of my Dad’s life since the time he was my age. All these years though, I never really knew this incredible woman. We had experienced countless introductions, as the words, “Francine, I’m sure you remember Sydney,'“ were uttered. I had seen her paint, I had seen some of her work, but I didn’t know her or her story.

Looking back as we prepare for Selfie Experience

Looking back as we prepare for Selfie Experience

Here at building two, the madness of the California State Fair install is just getting underway.  For Stage Nine, the State Fair was where it all began.  In 2005 we were completely new to the exhibit business.  Star Wars Through the Eyes of the Fan was the first of many exhibits to pass through the State Fair and later, to museums, fairs and science centers across the globe.  As a company we have traveled as far as China, Canada and Mexico, but it is always important to remember our roots and where we came from.  Growing up as the daughter of Troy, CEO of Stage Nine Entertainment, I’ve seen a small idea turn into a whole company.