Ossining Business Spotlight: The Art and Science of Printing

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. The plan behind this series at Patch is to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

This is as much about supporting local businesses as it is about celebrating the places and faces that make our community special. Click here to get to a simple form where local business owners can answer a few quick questions to be part of this ongoing feature.

Our spotlight today is on Mark Sarazen.

Business: Sarazen Editions
Owners: Mark Sarazen
Website: www.sarazeneditions.com
Address: 51 Morningside Drive, Ossining NY

How did you come up with the name?
It’s my last name - paired with printing limited edition prints

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?
I relocated my business from Illinois 9 years ago today! Having begun in 1997, moving here was like starting from scratch.

Briefly, what business are you in?
Digital Fine Art Printmaking - archival printing on paper and canvas

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?
Being self-employed during an economic downturn can lead to major stomach churning and a pile of sleepless nights. Having said that, I realize that being a small business owner is really about freedom.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?
When I started my business, the technology was immature and prone to failure. That was a singular hurdle to overcome. The second, was the reluctance by the art community to accept a digital print as collectible. Both of those hurdles are much diminished.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?
My favorite moment comes when my client exclaims: “it’s better than the original!” That happens more often than not.

What’s the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?
Printing on calf-skin is not for the faint of heart.

How do you deal with difficult customers?
Providing quality and dedicated service almost always guarantees a successful client relationship. An occasional problem can never be too difficult if you are dedicated to your craft.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?
Working with artists led me to join the Ossining Arts Council (OAC) in 2009. As current OAC President, I believe we are perceived as artists and citizens who add life and expression to our community.