Artisans & Agency is one of my favorite shops in downtown Santa Cruz. If I'm downtown, there is no way I can walk by without stopping inside, regardless of how much time I have! They have plentiful unique gift items, like jewelry, cards, local art, candles, bags, wood pieces, etc. My eyes are always too busy moving around to scan the store for all the cool new items that it's a wonder I've never tripped. The people who work there are also authentically friendly where you can actually ask them a question, and they won't judge you or ignore you! Love this store. Prices can be high, but I also think the quality of the products they carry are also high. read more

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Artisans & agency is truly a treasure trove. With the holiday season quickly approaching, this is the perfect location to find a one-of-a-kind gift. This boutique is filled with an impressive selection of locally-made goods including pottery, beautifully designed greeting cards for every occasion, locally sourced spices and honey, and bold statement jewelry. I ended up taking home a variety of teas for myself and friends. They're located in central downtown, next to a ton of other great shopping locations. Parking is pretty easy to find since it's a high traffic area. Whether you're a local or passing through, you won't forget this Santa Cruz business. read more

If "Put a Bird on it" had an address, this is the place. Or, if Etsy and Papyrus had a baby. Thanks for being on the 2024 Wine Walk circuit! read more

This is a very nice store and so many different interesting items that is for sure! I was interested in a few items but they were very pricey so I did not buy them. They were very nice and helpful but I just could not afford the items I was liking. They had some beautiful cutting boards as well! Very nice store I must admit! read more

Artisans & agency - Art Galleries Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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The products in this Artisan Store are an agency of handmade expressions of great value--multiple assortments of artisan items. I have purchased numerous gifts, hand-formed jewelry, cards, delectables, fine art, and printed graphic art. Items for children to adults grace this well-lit, handcrafted, unique, bespoke, or custom-made location. The value is in the hands of the beholder!! read more

Artisans & agency - Entry door - Art Galleries Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

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Absolutely loved this store. We stopped in to look around and realized you could spend hours here looking at all the unique and appealing crafts, jewelry, paintings, etc that are in this store. Truly a wonderful shop! Thankfully, we are out of wall space or we would have brought home a number of beautiful pieces. Something for everyone. read more

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This is a cute little place. One of those places full of stuff you definitely don't need, but has cute things to pick up for your home or your friends that you'll keep wanting to come back to. It's a bit of a misnomer that this is an "art gallery" though. It's a cute shop with what I think is local artists and whatnot making cute stuff. But if you're looking for fancy art for your house or something, this is def not the place. If you're looking for cute trinkets and decor, this is def the place for you. I really like the cards they have there, a little pricey, but super cute and have nice sayings to send to friends (especially during the pandemic). I also bought an air plant in a pretty geode thing. I loved the geode thing, but just make sure you look closely at the air plant. When I got home, realized it was like half dead. Not too big of a deal as I did mostly buy it for the geode art thing, but would've been better to have both a good healthy plant and geode thing. Overall, a cute place with cute things that you don't necessarily need, but def kinda want lol. Will be back for more cute presents and cards for friends :) read more

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A beautiful store with a wide variety of handmade items. 2D work covered the walls and so many items to fill your home with beauty and fragrances. This store host artisans who have refined their craft. It is fairly large as it is much longer than it is wide. Yelpers check in for your discount! read more

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I was in heaven! Wasn't planning on buying anything just went in to look around for the first time. It was like a museum gift shop hospital gift shop and boutique store mixed into one. So much creativity packed into one store, loved it. Items I got were the content bunny line, a bunny and dinosaur cup and the female surfer umbrella print by Kris Goto, a Hawaii-based illustrator. It's pricey but worth the one of kind finds and artistry. Employee was attentive and helpful. Definitely will be back! read more

Artisans and agency is yet another boutique gallery in downtown Santa Cruz. Have you ever gone to a store that has nothing you really need but you can't stop thinking about what you didn't buy? Well that's what happened to me at Artisans and Agency. They had the cutest inverted air fern planters (please see picture). Depending on the type of fern you have these inverted planters provide the illusion of a squid or a jelly fish. read more

Artisans & agency - Art Galleries Near Me - Santa Cruz, California

This is my favorite store in Santa Cruz. It is an awesome gallery that sells affordable pieces of "usable" art, mostly jewelry, as well as, pieces for the wall, such as paintings and clocks. The last time I was here, I purchased a small wooden piece that turns the light switch on and off. Well crafted. I love it. Even if I'm not planning to purchase anything, I like to stroll through the store, browsing at all the lovely handmade jewelry made by local artists. You have to pretty much compete with other customers to view the cases. They always highlight an artist at the back of the store. Basically, a one person show. They also have an extensive collection of uniquely designed greeting cards. The store is bright and there is a lot to take in. read more

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Don't forget to check in upon arrival and use your 15% off coupon. I totally missed this. I came here to get some earrings. The gal was so helpful. She let me look and feel the weigh of several till I found the ones that were both beautiful and light. I purchased them and they were just as perfect at home as they were in the store. I had to focus and walk out with only them. There are so many beautiful pieces of art. My favorite were the prints on the people movers at the boardwalk. I love the color and the huge size or the mounted prints. Next time one is going home with me. There was so much beautiful jewelry, artwork, and so much more. You must stop by and have a look at the variety and beauty. read more

Wonderful boutique offering beautiful handcrafted homewares and a treasure trove of unique gifts.

Made in America, baby! I'd have been remiss had I not sent this to you amply before Christmas. I'd have left you out, compromised your ability to procure something sweet for your sweetness. Were you of a mind to attempt to right the economy on a single afternoon, Pacific Avenue in Santa Cruz would be the place to do it. For the occasion the unwashed wash, festoon their natty dreads in clean ribbons, solicit in sotto voices sprinkled with please and thank you. My favorite shoppe, indeed the only one that I patronize that doesn't serve seasonal beverages, is Artisan's. It's Goldilocks-sized (you know, just right), with cases lining both walls and freestanding ones in the center. The cases are maybe two feet by two feet clear glass or lucite that looks like glass; inside are all manner of made crafts. Interesting adornments - necklaces, rings, things for your ears. Less precious stones than carefully worked metal and objects. Some leather goods. Glass hearts, candles. Art boxes to give to Mom for displaying your other thoughtful presents. In the back are cards and photographs and Other Things. The shoppe is well lit, the staff as attractive inside and out as what stocks the cases. This is my third year going. Three down, thirty three to go. read more

This is, just like it says in the name, a shop for local artisans to show off and sell what they make. Parking is street only which in downtown santa cruz usually means no parking. Unless you are exceptionally lucky you'll wind up in one of the nearby pay garages or surface lots scattered around a block off pacific avenue in every direction. This will seem like a larger store then it actually is due to the range of stock and the excellent layout. While they do carry bona fide art it's much less of a gallery and more of a higher quality (and price) décor store. This is an excellent spot to look for custom jewelry. While some of the earrings et al fall into the costume jewelry category much of it is very finely and expensively made. Outside of that it's hard to describe exactly what you'll find not least as the stock-and suppliers-are constantly rotating. In addition to the décor items it's also a great spot for whimsical stuff. Some of the children's selection is more of the collectible variety but they also have some high function items as well. Overall the effect is not just for appearance but also function. Most of the non art items-and even some of the art-is meant for everyday use. Overall even though this is a high end spot, it's totally worth adding into your downtown pacific avenue browse. read more

I had high hopes for this place but it left me meh. I have been looking for a piece of original art for awhile and wandered into this store. Nothing about this place is original art. There are a lot of prints and massed produced items. While the items themselves are very nice and upscale souvenirs, I wouldn't call this place a gallery by any means. read more

Made in USA, made in the west coast, groovy cool things...not from China. thank goodness! My hubby bought me the most far out purse from this place for our anniversary. I had NO clue he bought it for me. I was so thrilled. It looks great on my shoulder. I love it! How does he surprise me so. What doesn't surprise me is he shops local to support small businesses. I like that in a man and I love it in a local store! read more

I have been finding an array of beautiful art and fine curios at Artisans for 15 years now. I shop there for holidays and birthdays. I find fine relatively expensive rare gems and exquisitely crafted jewelry and less pricey and very tasteful, artful and beautiful jewelry. The artists are local and there is a pride of workmanship, naturally. The jewelry boxes, cutting boards, clipboards, and other woodwork is too tempting to pass up, and I usually come back for it after deciding which family member deserves it most (or should I give it to myself?). The owner Linnaea, buys the best cards anywhere, ever. They are funny, serious, thematic, retro, relationship humor, etc. There is something for everyone on the full 20 foot card wall. No turnstiles here, it is a wall to peruse. Her long silk scarves adorn my mother's and sister's neck, so much so the family had to tell me that I had to stop giving them to mom because she had too many, but then she complained she wanted more because I know her taste. Our walls have art from Artisans, our cabinets are filled with the cut glassware that features marine life, a love of mine. It is a tradition I give every year and we have collected a large set and my fiancé enjoys her wine only with dolphins. It is a Wow! store all around. Even if you are not ready to buy you still will probably get the chocolates at the counter. But certainly, go inside and see it as the museum it is, and the cool shirts, and the electric bike, and the......... read more

This is great place to find handmade gifts: Jewelry, ceramics, scarves , jewelry boxes, etc. read more

Here is a store both my mom and I can enjoy. They have a nice slice of local Santa Cruz creative/arty things as well as downright nice items. Their specialty is handmade jewelry which is in the $20-$60 range typically. I was particularly pleased with the handmade silk scarves and what seems to be a lasting section of handmaid inlaid woon boxes. You will find most of these crafts sprinkled in other stores around town at potentially higher prices, but it's nice that there is one place where it all seems to collect. They seem to have a core set of artists and then maybe 20% is rotating artists so keep an eye out for new stuff and don't forget the kiddie stuff and cards in the back. read more

The inventory is fantastic. My eyes took in so many works of art ... all of them unique and beautiful. How do you choose. There is something, locally made, for everyone. Outstanding. read more

This place has a little bit of everything. It is by far the best little place to browse for fun jewelry, art, glass, tiles, etc. They curate items that are hand made, well produced and at an affordable price point. I will keep coming back! read more

I always find something I want here (although I cannot always afford it LOL). Shopping there is always a pleasure, the staff is warm, helpful and friendly and I love their free gift wrapping! read more

Thanks for supporting the First Fridays Art Walk in downtown SC! I appreciate the fact that the store is made up of American Made Crafts with an emphasis on local artists from the surrounding communities have to offer - we need more galleries/stores like you! I was impressed to find out that they were votes Top Retailer by NICHE magazine in 2007 and 2009... right on! read more

Have been here a few times on our visits and the artistic quality of items is wonderful. We bought a necklace once and a gorgeous gold branch ring with diamonds for a 15th anniversary on this trip. Wish we could spend/buy more! read more

Five years ago, my husband and daughters bought me a gorgeous necklace for my birthday at the Artisan Gallery in Santa Cruz, Ca. One day 2 1/2 years ago as I was talking to a sales clerk in the Valley Fair Mall and the silk thread broke, spilling the tiny beads everywhere. I gathered as many as I could, took the whole mess back to the store to have it repaired. Off it went back to the artist who charged $75 to replace the lost beads and restringing. Loved the necklace so I had it repaired. In May 2016 I notice the silk thread beginning to fray, so in June my husband returned it to the store to have it repaired. Not having heard back from the store, I visited the store in August. The clerks told us they were sorry for not contacting us, but the artist was going through a messy divorce and hadn't gotten my to my necklace. OK. A month later I went back, the necklace was being restrung be the artist, and oh, by the way, we are charging you another $75 to have it restrung. After a few conversations with the store manager, Jacqueline, I refused to pay the additional charge. She told me the necklace needed to be maintained much like pearls and would require restringing. I asked if it is normal to have a necklace restrung every 2 1/2 years, knowing it is not. I have owned many necklaces and none of them have been restrung in the many years of wear. The repeated response was, we can't pay for this repair. Upset because I would have restrung the necklace myself if I would have known about the fee before bringing it in, as well as upset about the necklace now costing me $150 more than the original price, I refused to accept the necklace. I asked my husband to step in and negotiate, after a few more phone calls, with the same response, he asked to speak to the owner. He never did talk to the owner, a manager talked to owner, then relayed the message to my husband. After months of aggravation, time spent on the phone and stopping by the store, finally they agreed to give me the necklace without charge. So sad, the store carries beautiful pieces, but I expect the customer service to align with the price of the merchandise they carry. I also expect artists to stand behind their products. I will never go back to the store and have shared this story with my friends, who like me, like to support local business. But this is one local place I can't support. read more

Do you appreciate custom made over mass merchant? Looking for a one stop shopping to get your fill of artisan made products for yourself, for family, friends, gifts, etc? Then look no further in downtown Santa Cruz, as this store has it all. Most items are made locally, but they bring in craftspeople from all across the US. The staff is really nice and helpful too. read more

I have been shopping at Artisans for longer than I want to admit (i.e. probably at least 15 years or more)! But that is because it is my go to place for Mother's Day, Christmas and birthday gifts for many of the people in my life. Over the years I have purchased a treasure trove of beautiful jewelry and accessories for the women (mom, mother in law, sister) in my life. There are tons of jewelry options at Artisans- from modern to more classic pieces. With such a wide variety of choices, you can find items that are on the more budget friendly end all the way up to the splurge gift and many in between. There is also lovely art work, prints, greeting cards, and more. It is not just a store for women, there are items for men, glassware, candles, clocks etc. Very friendly staff that is attentive but not overbearing. read more

Awesome place to look for local art (much of it affordable!). Fun place to just look around or to buy a gift for yourself or someone special. (Gawd--this sounds like a paid ad!) Some pretty unique greeting cards are among the more inexpensive options. Staff seems to know their stuff, too. read more

We purchased a beautiful framed watercolor print. The younger gal who was originally checking us out was very sweet and kind. Another older woman stepped in and was, what we felt, rude to her employee. The younger gal was simply trying to help ensure our frame was well bubble wrapped for travel (which we appreciated greatly!). But, it was glaringly obvious the older woman was very condescending to her employee in the process. Overall we are happy with the purchase- but, if we would have seen the way the younger gal was being treated we likely would have taken our business elsewhere. The way you treat your employees matters. Especially those who are young and have many jobs ahead of them. Be kind. People are watching. read more

Quality unique items. Repeat visitor. They're always friendly and they give you space to peruse the store. Nice gift wrapping too!

I really love this shop. They feature mostly local artists, lots of jewelry, but also paintings, wood works, and paper goods and gifts. This is a wonderful place to get a gift for someone or to splurge on yourself! It's a little dangerous, because I always know I'm going to spend $ here :) They also have a 5% discount with a yelp check-in! read more

I absolutely LOVED this place at first glance! I stumbled upon it randomly and decided to pop inside. Amazing selection of unique art, jewelry, woodwork, candles, etc., from artists all over the US. Definitely a great place to pick up something unique or to walk around and admire the amazing talent that this gallery represents. read more

I absolutely love the display of local artwork & talent. Very inspiring jewelry work, woodwork, water color, paintings, leatherwork, very unique candles and metalwork wall decor just to start. Casual but classy vibe. The artwork at Artisans is just fun to look at and to ooh and ahh over. read more

I love this shop, from its numerous jewelry designers to its fun home decor, there is always something new for me to purchase. The staff is amazing! Super friendly and many of them have art in the shop as well. Its a must visit when you are in Santa Cruz! read more

A nicely curated selection of jewelry and other handmade goods and art. I make it a point to stop in monthly to check out their ever-updated selection and it is my go-to spot for gifts. Plus the sales staff could not be more helpful. It is a gem on Pacific Avenue. read more

LOVE this shop! Whenever I need a unique, high quality gift for that "someone special" who is hard to please, has everything and needs nothing, I go to Artisans. It has the best selection of beautiful, hand-crafted jewelry and so many different kinds of inspiring art. Staff is always super helpful and knowledgeable, too, so I can get in and out quickly!!! read more

I love the Artisan's Gallery. Beautiful, unique, hand-made treasures await you!

I have gotten SO many of my girlfriend's birthday/anniversary presents here. They have a wide variety of artistic styles displayed, meaning that, while most of the store may not be to your taste, there will probably be at least a small section that has something you LOVE. And a wide variety, as opposed to a lot of mediocrity, is important, even if it means I don't love the whole store. Friendly staff, not-unreasonable prices, good display/layout...love this shop. read more

Local artists and not so local artists, but all hand crafted in America. The jewelry is ecclectic. There are watercolors and paintings and prints. There are leathergoods. There are wooden cutting boards inlaid with turqoise and hand-painted silk scarves and kiln-fired porcelin tiles and chocolates and metalwork and greeting cards......just go and see what all there is in this store. There is a wide range of prices and tastes. The staff are super friendly and I know you'll be able to find something unique as a gift for someone or yourself. read more