Meet Russell Holcombe | Owner & Print Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Russell Holcombe and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Russell, what do you attribute your success to?
Problem-solving is undoubtedly the most important factor behind my success as the owner of Metalography. I find the fix for problems that pop up every day as a business owner and meet the needs of customers with a solution-oriented mindset. For example, if an important piece of machinery is down and there is an impending deadline to be met, the answer is not to close up shop and wait a week for a repair man. It’s time to adapt to the situation at hand and either fix the machinery myself or find a way, hell or high water, to meet the deadline. Customer requests range from the simplest tasks, like needing a print or two, to outlandish problems- like, “I need 100 prints shipped to Guam tomorrow morning.” If I’m able to meet customer needs, I will earn their business and hopefully keep it for the long run. In my opinion, there is nothing more important than problem-solving when it comes to running a successful business, and I hope that Metalography is seen as a place that does this brilliantly.
This also led me to expand my business. One of the most common issues my customers experienced was the absence of a space to showcase their art locally. Because of this, I opened “Metalography Art Gallery”; a modern take on a communal art space, bringing art to Temecula Valley. We currently host nine artists that each offer their unique styles of art. From neon light fusion artwork to classic photography, to impressionist artform, it goes on and on. It brings joy to see people’s reactions when they come through the doors. Also, the sense of accomplishment artists feel by selling the artwork they created makes the Gallery a slam-dunk success. The space is truly amazing and I am very proud of what it has become.

What should our readers know about your business?
Metalography specializes in producing high-quality metal prints with white glove service. Our attention to detail and direct customer service is what sets us apart from other printing companies. We also own a gallery aptly named “Metalography Art Gallery,” where we showcase local photographers and artists. My thought process behind this endeavor was to give the community a place to visit and enjoy the work of local artists. There aren’t many places in Temecula that support local artists, and I’m proud to put their art on display for anyone who wishes to see it. I became the owner of Metalography eight years ago after only working for the company for five years. The journey to becoming the owner was one of long hours and perseverance. Essentially, I made myself irreplaceable and became the only one who could take over. The current adventure of owning and leading Metalography is rife with challenges and stressors that prove fulfilling to overcome. My means to overcoming these challenges is a willingness to keep going and push through them. Often it’s as simple as not quitting, and solving or outlasting any issues at hand. Challenges can also be taken on with the help of others. When I took on the challenge of creating the Gallery space, I knew I would need the help of many people to see my vision become what it is today. Learning to accept the help of others allowed me to succeed where I otherwise may have failed. Now the Gallery has created a community for the artists involved, and that is truly special to see. I would say it’s become an artist collective, and many friendships have grown through this endeavor. A business can teach you a lot about yourself and a lot about life. One of the main lessons I have learned is to treat others with respect and they will do the same. Customers fall under this, but most importantly, employees. They are the heartbeat of any business, and if they are not treated with respect, it shows. Who wants to show up every day to work with employees who dislike them?
I would like the world to know that Metalography loves producing metal prints/artwork that people will enjoy for years and years to come. I often think of the hundreds of thousands of prints we have produced over the years and I hope that they bring joy to the owners and anyone who sees them. Metalography is known to be a place that supports many local artists. The Gallery brings a sense of community to the artists involved, and that has been amazing to see.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would bring them to Metalography Art Gallery to show them the amazing local artists I work with. Many people have been wowed by the art showcased in the gallery, and often leave with a newfound respect for the artists involved. Temecula offers one of the best wine countries in Southern California, so I would take them to many of the smaller, locally-owned wineries. A few that come to mind are Doffo Winery, Masia de la Vinya Winery, and Lorenzi Estate Vineyards & Winery. I find these to be more charming, offering a better experience overall. Another day, I would spend bar/restaurant hopping in Old Town Temecula. There are so many good places, like 1909, Wine and Beer Garden, and Coin-Op.
We could spend another day hiking and enjoying nature. The Santa Rosa Plateau offers a nice, easy hiking experience with amazing wildlife, flowers, and scenery. There are also some longer, more strenuous hikes to be taken advantage of, such as the trails out of Dripping Springs, just East of Temecula.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Mac Hillenbrand is an amazing artist specializing in wood inlay. I’ve had the joy of years of producing his metal prints, which can be found at www.amberwavesofgrain.gallery.
He’s an awesome dude who just loves making sick art.

Another would be Bodhi Smith, an amazing photographer local to Fallbrook, whom I have had the pleasure of working with for the last 14 years. I’ve enjoyed seeing him grow as a photographer. His work is one of a kind.

Website: https://www.metalography.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/metalography_artgallery/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetalographyGallery/

Other: https://metalographygallery.com/