Rediscovering History, One Plate Block at a Time: RENEE ATKINSON LLC Brings Vintage Stamp Art to Modern Homes

Renee Atkinson, the creative force behind RENEE ATKINSON LLC, based in Beaverton, Oregon, isn’t just selling vintage postage stamp blocks – she’s offering a slice of history, a conversation starter, and a truly unique piece of art for your walls. For years, collectors have prized individual stamps, but Renee has turned her passion into a fascinating business focused on the often-overlooked beauty of plate blocks – those larger sections of stamps still attached, as they originally came from the printing press. You can reach Renee and the team at 620-480-8236. “I’ve always loved the aesthetic of old stamps,” explains Renee Atkinson. “But it was the plate blocks that really grabbed me. They're like little windows into the printing process, with those perfectly aligned stamps and the often-faded colors telling a story. I wanted to share that with others, to move beyond just collecting and into displaying this incredible, often-forgotten art form.” What are Vintage Plate Blocks? For those unfamiliar, plate blocks aren’t just a handful of stamps stuck together. They're sections of stamps printed from a single printing plate. Historically, the U.S. Post Office required a portion of each printing run to be left intact – the plate block – as proof of the print quality. This meant a section of stamps remained unperforated (or partially perforated) and connected, offering a direct view of the printing process. “Think of it like the first proof of a painting,” says Atkinson. “It’s raw, it’s a little imperfect, and it shows you exactly how the artist – in this case, the printer – created the piece.” Because of these requirements, plate blocks were intentionally kept, making them a legitimate, though niche, part of postal history. From Collector’s Item to Wall Art While traditionally sought after by stamp collectors, RENEE ATKINSON LLC is revolutionizing how these plate blocks are appreciated. Renee doesn’t just sell the blocks as collector's items. She expertly curates, sometimes lightly cleans (always preserving the vintage integrity), and then frames these blocks, transforming them into eye-catching wall art. “I want to make vintage stamps accessible to everyone, not just serious collectors,” she explains. “My goal is to take something that might seem ‘old-fashioned’ and make it feel modern and relevant. Framed plate blocks add a unique texture, color, and talking point to any room.” The framed plate blocks aren’t just about the stamps themselves; the framing is integral to the presentation. Renee utilizes a range of styles, from minimalist black frames to rustic wood, allowing the blocks to seamlessly integrate into diverse décor styles. She meticulously selects framing that complements the color palette and era of the stamps. A Piece of History, Carefully Curated Renee's selection process is painstaking. She scours estate sales, auctions, and collections, looking for plate blocks in good condition – not necessarily perfect, but with enough visual appeal and historical character. She specializes in blocks from the mid-20th century, a period she feels offers the most vibrant colors and compelling designs. “I'm really drawn to the designs from the 1930s, 40s, and 50s,” says Atkinson. “The artwork on those stamps is amazing – everything from portraits of presidents to depictions of American landscapes and historical events. They're little snapshots of a different time.” She explains that each plate block is unique. The variations in color, printing quality, and even slight imperfections tell a story about the printing process and the age of the block. "You're not just buying a picture; you're buying a piece of history," she emphasizes. More Than Just Decoration: A Conversation Starter Beyond their aesthetic appeal, RENEE ATKINSON LLC's framed plate blocks are designed to spark conversation. Guests will inevitably ask about the unique artwork, providing a perfect opportunity to share the history of postage stamps and the story behind the printing process. “I love seeing people connect with these pieces,” says Renee. “It’s not just about having something pretty on the wall; it’s about learning something new and appreciating the artistry of the past.” The blocks also appeal to a wide range of interests, from history buffs and stamp collectors to design enthusiasts and anyone looking for a unique and conversation-starting piece of wall art. They work well in various spaces, including home offices, living rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens. Sustainable and Unique Art In an age of mass-produced art, RENEE ATKINSON LLC offers something truly unique and sustainable. By repurposing vintage materials, Renee is giving these historical artifacts a new life and preventing them from being lost to time. “I’m passionate about preserving history and finding creative ways to reuse and repurpose vintage items,” says Atkinson. “It feels good to know that I’m contributing to a more sustainable art practice.” Finding Your Perfect Plate Block Renee’s current collection, and new additions, can be found through her direct contact information: RENEE ATKINSON LLC, 2850 SW CEDAR HILLS BLVD, 327, BEAVERTON, OR, 97005-1354. She also takes custom requests, helping clients find blocks that match their specific interests or color schemes. “I’m always happy to work with clients to find the perfect plate block for their space,” says Atkinson. “I want to help people discover the beauty and history of these incredible pieces of art." If you’re looking for a unique, sustainable, and conversation-starting piece of wall art, RENEE ATKINSON LLC’s vintage plate blocks are definitely worth a look. It's a way to bring a little piece of history – and a lot of personality – into your home. You can reach out directly at 620-480-8236 to discuss options and find the perfect piece for your collection or decor.