Making coffee at home is usually my go-to in the mornings, but on this day, I had an appointment early in the morning and decided to treat myself to coffeehouse coffee. I stopped into Artifacts 302, a local coffee shop and art studio.
While approaching the building, you can see the windows filled with stained glass pieces. Walking in, you’re greeted with a gorgeous painting display, and a cute golden retriever. The whole building is filled with artist studio spaces, and their own space to display and sell their art.
The coffee was just what I needed to start my day, and I got a muffin as a bonus. But walking around the studio was the real treat. It’s like going to an art museum where you can buy any of the local art that you see.
Art is visible before you even step through the door.
What Caught My Eye During This Visit
My favorite artists are the ones I personally know. One of the studio booths is rented by a co-worker of mine who is a graphic designer by day. His paintings focus on landscapes of the Southwest. He uses bold colors and clean lines that give familiar places (for me) a different perspective that immediately catches my eye.
One of the loft studios featured classical figurative artwork in a cozy retreat-like setting.
Another favorite is an artist who paints in a traditional realism style. His comfy loft studio is filled with wildlife paintings, landscapes, and classical figures. The large moose painting immediately caught my attention, but the studio itself is super memorable. I love that it’s tucked above the main floor with a view from above. It makes me feel like I am stepping into an artist’s retreat rather than a retail space.
Traditional realism paintings featuring wildlife and landscapes filled the loft gallery.
More Than Just a Place for Coffee
Many local coffee shops partner with artists. I am not sure why that is, but it is fairly common for them to go hand in hand. My best guess is that small local businesses want to support other small businesses. Coffee and art compliment each other. It’s a no brainer.
Larger coffee shop studios have rotating exhibits and themes. Right now, my local coffee shop has a themed exhibit of “just move it” which showcases local artists’ interpretation of the topic.
Most art in these venues are available for purchase, with each piece displaying the artist’s name, the title of the work, and the price to purchase the piece.
I love places like this because they are super casual. There are people in the same space visiting with friends, having meetings, and people just reading the newspaper. You can wander freely and enjoy the atmosphere humming with faint conversations and the smell of coffee first thing in the morning. That kind of environment makes the purchase of a piece of local art seem more accessible and enjoyable.
The current themed exhibit showcases local artists’ interpretations of movement.
Why Coffee Shops Are Great Places to Discover Local Artists
A More Relaxed Environment
Unlike some traditional galleries, coffee shops often feel more approachable and relaxed. People are naturally spending some time walking around and looking at local art, and in this case, the studio spaces as well.
Direct Connections to Artists
Because this site has actual studios, there is a good chance that you can meet one of the artists and make a connection. Even if a site only has local art displays and no studios, there is still a chance that you may bump into the artist. Most local shops display their art because they know the artist.
Sometimes there may even be receptions, or opening nights where you can make a connection with the artist, or others interested in art. It’s a great way to network.
Affordable Options
Spaces like this offer more affordable art options than traditional galleries. They usually host local talent and emerging artists, making pieces more attainable. It’s a great way to start your original art collection while also supporting local artists.
Other Unexpected Places to Find Local Art
There are far more places to find local, affordable art than just coffee shops. There are usually art districts or smaller downtown areas that have multiple businesses supporting local artists. A lot of times, you can find original art for sale in restaurants, breweries, local businesses, community centers, farmers markets, and community colleges.
Tips for Buying Art from Coffee Shop Exhibits
- Check if the art is for sale.
- Ask staff about the artist, or the artist themselves if available.
- Look for artist contact information or a website.
- Think about measurements before purchasing.
- Take a picture and think about it before buying.
- As always, stick to your budget.
Final Thoughts
Art sales are not always inside formal galleries. Sometimes it’s hanging in plain sight, appearing as regular décor while you grab your morning coffee. Taking a few extra minutes to take a look around can introduce you to local artists, support your community, and perhaps help you find the perfect piece you have been looking for.
Local art can often be found in unexpected places beyond traditional galleries.
