Excellent mixed-media and large format pieces for home or office. Variety of abstract designs and…read morecolor schemes. Beautiful textures and uncommon themes. Artist is on-site and can often be found at work on a new piece. Formerly painted in Houston and Costa Rica. I was able to negotiate a little on price and got a terrific one-of-a-kind painting for my wife.

Amidst the ongoing demise of retail I nearly did backflips of joy when I stumbled upon the artfully…read morecurated, bite-sized gallery/shop that is Carling Arts. The mere idea of an artist who works small opening a tiny storefront in which his creations are showcased is artful. Hand-sized ink and graphite originals featuring beautiful, whimsical, fantastical, artistically executed images line the walls. Prints of these images are on shelves and in bins. There's a little of this and a little of that, emphasis on "little" because you can - literally - spread your arms and touch both of the store's side walls while standing in the middle. There's no room for stuff that doesn't belong and everything here belongs. It's a thoughtful, artful, minimalist selection of offerings. In my surprise at finding Carling Arts I threatened to spend all day chatting up its artist/founder, Jon Carling, but he was rescued by an actual paying customer and I used that moment to exit. I'd spent enough time inside Carling Arts to notice many (all?) of the little details that one might easily overlook if not observant. From the characters lining the inside of the adorable doorway awning to the sticker machine out front, there's a lot to see here if you enter with your eyes wide open. As charming as Larkspur's Magnolia Avenue shopping area already is, the arrival of Carling Arts has brought things up a notch in the most whimsical, fun, and art-filled way imaginable.

I've been a longtime fan of Jon Carling's work, so when he opened Carling Arts Gallery in Larkspur,…read moreI was beyond thrilled! Inside you'll find beautiful one-of-a-kind original drawings adorning the walls, along with a delightful assortment of items like signed art prints, greeting cards, rare books, and limited edition guitar pedals and skateboards. There's a ton of cool stuff to explore. I recently purchased two original drawings--one for myself and one as a gift. Owning original artwork from Carling Arts is something to cherish for generations to come. If you are not local, he'll ship it to you! Jon is incredibly nice and fun to talk to. I highly recommend stopping by on the weekend to explore his latest offerings--they rotate regularly, so there's always something new to discover!

Donna and Suzanne are a pleasure to know. Each time we have visited Seager Gray Gallery, the…read moreinteraction and conversation have been nothing short of insightful. We love their collection of artists, and we wish our walls were larger! You won't be disappointed.

The initial experience I had with Suzanne was the beginning of my joyous journey in appreciating…read moreand occasional acquisition of art.

We rode the SMART train into town for fun one day. We didn't have a plan other than to walk around…read more We happened upon Art Works after visiting Riley Street. Both my kiddos are very artistic and were absolutely thrilled to tour this studio/gallery space. The front desk attendant was very welcoming, and we all really enjoyed being surrounded with so much creativity. There was something to see at almost every turn, and even a few interactive pieces. It really was a treat to see my kids soak it all in and to be in their element for a change. It will be our go-to destination on all future jaunts to San Rafael.

On my first visit I found a community of artists ready to invite me into their studios and share…read moretheir meaningful works of art. Barbara, one of the artists there, even gave me a tour of the space, galleries and filled me in on the history and mission of the building and community. As a non-profit organization they work to keep the costs low for renting studio space and allow artists to rent gallery space for exhibitions. And I'm very much looking forward to the next art walk which occurs every 2nd Friday of the month. If you're looking to find an artistic community in Marin County, or just enjoy speaking with passionate artists, then you've found the right spot.

Walking down San Anselmo boulevard on a recent weekend I came upon Wendy's studio/gallery space…read more I'm kind of like a Hobbit in that I love to pour over maps and take imaginary journeys across country sides guided by my index finger. And globes are even MORE fun. So my imagination was awed and inspired by the works that Wendy has created and has on display in her space. I didn't have a lot of time to explore everything on offer there, but I did make sure to buy one of the "studies" that she did. And I'll definitely be back to look into having a pin-map made for one of my friends who often travels on business. 5/5 stars!

Wow, this place is a gem. Unique vintage styled push pin maps for the traveler who wants to capture…read morethe places they've been.

I had a print framed at Dostal Studios. They have a huge variety of frame stock and the work there…read moreis fabulous. They had 2 types of museum glass and the piece I had framed turned out better than I had imagined. This place is more reasonably priced than other frame stores in Marin. Great customer service and phenomenal work. They also can package your framed art for mailing. Love this place!

A really nice experience with Dostal Studio. Great framing job and a very reasonable price. I will…read moreuse again and highly recommend.

I like this community art gallery. Membership opportunities and studio space is offered at the…read moreMarin Art Society. The gallery offers a gallery with rotating art shows plus members get to display their artwork on dedicated wall space. This gallery is large and austere as you can see from the video. The day I visited the gallery there was a juried show. I had a nice conversation with a volunteer who also has a studio downstairs. Each month the members draw to select their wall space for the following month or quarter. Membership to the Society requires one to sit the gallery and pay regular dues. This location is the best kept secret in Marin. Every time I dove by I made a mental note to stop by. It took me 2 yrs a very sunny day and balloons and flags out front that I finally stopped by. I hope you visit this gallery and enjoy the many talented works from local artisans. I understand the Society takes part in the San Rafael Friday Night Art Walk as well.

Marin Society of Artists has moved from a rental gallery tucked away in Ross to a working…read morestudio/gallery located on third street and participating in the San Rafael second Friday ArtWalks. Shows are both local and national. Please join us, to nosh and enjoy the shows and even consider renting a reasonably priced studio for your own creative pursuits.

This place is magical! They have a huge selection of Buddhas…read morethat will bring peace to your home or garden!

A Gem!! Routes…read moreGallery has become one of my absolute favorite places--not just to shop, but to be inspired. Nearly every room in my world is touched by the beauty I've found there: my Skin Care Spa is filled with serene Buddha statues, shimmering geodes, and soulful objects that have helped create a sanctuary-like atmosphere for my clients. It's more than decor--it's energy. A feeling of peace, presence, and reverence that people feel the moment they walk through the door. My home and garden are equally graced by their treasures: a majestic Balinese water goddess by the fountain, a large Buddha watching over my deck, and a meditation room filled with meaningful, handpicked items--all from Routes Gallery. What truly makes this place extraordinary is the owner, Richard Routher. Richard is a gem--kind, thoughtful, full of creative ideas, and genuinely loves his work and is always so helpful to me.. He always goes above and beyond, and it shows in every interaction that I have had over the years. Whether you're looking to infuse your space with sacred beauty or searching for that perfect meaningful gift, Routes Gallery is a place of wonder and heart. I'm forever grateful I found it. Dalini

Always a wonderful magical experience--always! This treasure…read moretrove is beautifully curated , delightfully displayed, with selections that are imaginative, and such a pleasure to purchase.

L'Ambiente offers unique high quality gifts. There is beauty, and whimsy in the seasonal gifts. It…read moreis a pleasure to shop there. The owner curates items beautifully. The service is exceptional.