artisan-idea:skill:product

artisan is a gallery space for everyone. I say that because where some galleries leave you feeling like you shouldn’t dare walk in unless you’re prepared to fess up to owning a Black AMEX, artisan is a gallery that, much like its Fortitude Valley location, offers up an eclectic mix of locally produced goods in its gift store and via it’s exhibition program and welcomes all with open arms. I’m confident you’ll never walk in feeling like you need membership to an exclusive club to enter.
Most recently I visited the space for their Marketplace exhibition which showcased a range of local artisan producers from bakers, chocolate makers, miso, rooftop beehives and handmade wall planters. The concept was to show the connection we must have to where our food comes from and like many of this galleries exhibits, it actively encouraged visitors to interact with the exhibit. You were encouraged to taste the products from the makers, purchase and ask questions of them.
But if a solo walk through an art gallery is not your style, there’s also a well curated gift store at the front that stocks local producers works.
Pro Tip: Always make a point to check out their window displays. Especially the one facing Ivory Street. There’s always a new up & coming designer front and centre, like the current, Nooko & Co pieces. It’ll make you reconsider an entire month’s budget!

What a great little place.
Gallery space that supports locals, it’s nice to see, and a very swish space it is too.
But the shop. Look, it’s not cheap. But keep in mind these things are often hand made by local artisans, not the mass produced stuff out of a factory. It’s worth it. Lots of very cool jewellery for the ladies and things for around the home.
I will be back.

One of many art galleries located in Fortitude Valley, Artisan is always one of the most interesting. Made up of a couple of small exhibition spaces (Gallery Artisan and Crucible) and a boutique shop, there’s something for everyone. A couple of my favourite recent exhibitions have been photographs from music photographer Tony Mott and a series of ceramic sculptures by Chinese artist Dai Li. Exhibitions are generally on display for one to two months.
The shop contains lots of beautiful clothes, jewellery, collectables, and pieces of furniture, and I enjoy a regular browse.

Artisan is a very chic store that sells some unique art pieces crafted by local artists. Every time I enter the store, I will leave feeling inspired to create my own pretty and crafty knick knacks (but instantly give up because I know anything I produce could never look as good).
One thing I love about Artisan is their visual merchandising and store layout, the interior is very white which really works in making their products stand out. The staff are also excellent in keeping everything clean and presentable (no finger marks or specks of dirt in sight).
You can buy some great gifts here, there is lots of jewellery, crockery and home decorations available for purchase. I can imagine it would be the perfect store to buy something for your hippy/​arty aunt.
If you like unique art pieces, Artisan is a store you might want to check out.

This not-​for-​profit craft gallery can hold its own amongst the slickest commercial galleries of Sydney and Melbourne. I applaud their change of name from Craft Queensland a few years ago to Artisan as they have lifted the image of the people they represent from cottage crafters to skilled designers, craftsman and artists.
The shop front stocks jewellery, glassware, ceramics and textiles of the artists they represent but the majority of the space is devoted to promoting the artists through varying exhibitions.
On my last visit, I was lucky enough to catch ‘Green Nation’ an exhibition of living art, craft and design in confined, urban spaces by a range of artists. Anyone who’s familiar with inner city apartment living should try and catch this exhibition for some great concepts on how to ‘green up’ your living space.
There’s been a push in recent years for ceramic, textiles, jewellers and other small design artists to distribute their works through markets and online stores. While these represent excellent opportunities for emerging artists, you can’t go pass Artisan for expert level craftsmanship.

Being a struggling artist is not much fun,
luckily the little guys have been dealt a good hand with Artisan.
This organisation exists to promote and present artisan
products to the local and international market.
And I think its fair to say they are doing a brilliant job.
I have been introduced to a wide range of artists
through their Mart store in Southbank,
and have wandered around their head offices in
the Valley a couple of times too.
Their space is clean modern and lets the art speak for itself.
The staff are friendly and pretty well informed on the pieces on display
Help out local artists by checking out the valley store for exhibitions
or wander over to Mart for exceptional and well designed gifts.