Before establishing a dedicated art business, Beale owned Townsville Dry Cleaners & Laundries. In the early 1970s, Townsville had a very limited art retail scene, and Beale began selling art supplies directly from his dry-cleaning shop to support local hobbyists and professionals.

After identifying the growing demand for dedicated art services, Beale sold his dry-cleaning business to focus entirely on the arts opening Townsville Art & Framing in Flinders Street.

Cyril sold the business to husband and wife team Steve and Xenia. They were responsible for the business's major evolution, including its move from the original Flinders Street CBD location to its current high-exposure corner spot at Domain Central. Steve and Xenia built a reputation for high-level custom and conservation framing. They became the local experts in preserving complex items, ranging from 130-year-old embroideries and first-fleet keepsakes to wedding photos and sports memorabilia.

In early 2026, Steve and Xenia made the decision to retire. They sold the enterprise to Stephanie Godfrey and Dylan Rankin, a couple with two small children who left corporate roles to take over the local institution.