Rockaway Artist Alliance (RAA) is a charming outpost located on the Rockaway Beach peninsula on the…read moregrounds of the former Ft. Tilden. Housed in what appears to be a remaining barracks, RAA, as I understand it, provides both workspace and gallery space for local artists to create, display and sell their works. As an all volunteer group, the artist members, who are lovely people, come together to host the various shows they put on during the course of the year. Prices With the ocean literally a sand dunes away, the open airy setting and fresh salty ocean air makes RAA an relaxing visit if you are biking, hiking or beaching in the area.

Powerhouse Arts is a very cool space in a converted factory. The main hall is massive, with raw,…read moreexposed brick walls covered in graffiti. The industrial feel is unique and made a perfect backdrop for William Kentridge's work, Sibyl. The piece uses the ancient myth of the Sibyls--prophetesses who were often ignored--to explore how the pursuit of power leads to a tragic end when warnings go unheeded. It fused Kentridge's signature charcoal animation with powerful visuals, music, and dance. The result was inventive and powerful, and one of the best productions I've seen this year. I'd recommend checking their website to see what's on view before you go. This place is definitely worth a visit.

This is excellent. You are completly forgiven for thinking everything is real. Take a second look…read more Its amazing. Very funny. Banksy (british born artist) really captured something here. The gallery is set in a normal looking everyday store in the heart of Grenwich village

This past Friday I went to the grand opening party and premier gallery exhibit - what fun! Amazing…read morefiber art exhibit curated by Joetta Maue (who also teaches classes at the center.) It was such a beautiful evening I just have to start from the beginning. I walked up with my friend (who had a piece in the show) and was immediately WOWed when we saw the beautifully lit large windows showcasing tons of happy, supportive, exciting people looking and talking about fiber art. Yes, I've been to galleries before but something felt really good in that space, positive vibes from the get-go. We were greeted by a lovely lady asking for donations. For $5 you got a raffle ticket and free tote bag or scarf. The raffle prizes were all at least $100, well worth a $5-$20 donation, let alone the rest of the evening which I am about unravel to you. Works ranged from gigantic detailed creatures hanging from the ceiling and spilling to the floor, gorgeous intricate embroidered illustrations, very cool sculptural/costume-like joined head piece, large scale portrait quilts, intriguing fabric films.. everything I saw was a FEAST for the eyes, and completely different, yet connected. Cutting edge indeed. I was super impressed and got to meet many of the artists there that night, including Joetta. Although it was crowed (which is SO great for a gallery opening!) the atmosphere was completely positive. The live brass band added a bouncy background to conversation, and later an impromptu dance party/congo. There was lots of delicious savory finger food and darling 'textile arts center' cupcakes. Plenty of complimentary wine and cold craft beers. Bathrooms were spotless, well lit, brightly colored and stocked with essentials. One of the more inspiring NY events I've been to. The current exhibition is up Sept 17 - Oct 11, even without the party it's absolutely worth checking out. The facilities are gorgeous, and class listings are on their website.

Fiber Artists Central!…read more Wall to wall floor looms available for your weaving pleasure. It's difficult to find anywhere that has floor looms and instruction as well as studio time without having to get in a car and drive to another state. TAC is perfect for the weaver, like me, who already has a project at the home loom and wants to begin another at the same time. It's not just weaving, either. There is block printing, felted and woven sculpture, tapestry, framed prints, airbrush, fabric collage, printed bags, recycled printing, sewing, embroidery and design. TAC wil keep you crafty busy as well as your little one at the Kids Camp for the artsy child. Teachers are knowledgeable and laid back. Class fee includes separate studio time on two other days, one during the week and one on the weekend- a useful option for those that need to split up their studio work over a period of time.

I drove by this house a million and one times, possibly... It sits on a side of the bend of Clove…read moreRoad, just a few steps from railroad station and across from Grasmere Lake. So when I needed to frame an oversized art piece I got from friend as housewarming gift, I knew exactly where to go. Old house with sign over porch, few private parking spots on a side street - and two wonderful ladies who running the shop and will help you with everything you need. I can be quite picky with finishes and profiles that I already have in mind, and they went above and beyond to make sure frame will support art and the glass - they even called manufacturer to find finish I requested in particular profile. 2 weeks later, I was picking artwork up - so familiar but looking so different all dressed up, with simple white matting border all around, and solid brushed metal frame... It looked spectacular - the warmth of the frame brought up the warm tones in otherwise black-n-white picture, and the moment that was captured came alive. They helped me bring it to the car, and I could not thank them enough for the work they did. I will be back with more art - and to browse around gift items they sell at the shop as well.

I had a small poster framed recently and it came out beautiful. This was the 2nd item I had framed…read more Staff is helpful. You will not be disappointed.

This place was a happy surprise. Just wanted to have a quiet, air conditioned place to relax after…read morewalking around in sweltering heat around Union Square. Since I'm a fan of everything Tibetan & Buddhism we decided to explore Tibet house. What a hidden gem! Exhibits, paintings, books, cute shop, friendly people. They also have classes on meditation, reiki which im really interested for next time. This place is like a fast tract to Tibet. Love this spot & i highly recommend!

This is a place of learning which encourages spiritual and personal growth, compassion, kindness…read moreand world understanding. Tibet House offers classes on a variety of topics from basic meditation to sound baths to in depth Buddhist histories and philosophies with experienced instructors. There is a lending library, gallery, small gift shop, and many classes and activities, free and paid alike. Entrance is free.

I went to this store because I had been a regular customer of Adorned jewelry when it was still a…read morepart of the tattoo salon (I was also a tattoo customer). This was my first visit to the stand-alone store. It's a very pretty store with lovely things. I was prepared to spend a significant amount of money on an anniversary gift for my partner and that's why I went there. Why did I leave empty handed? 1. Nothing is priced and asking a price results in an inattentive sales woman looking it up on a tablet which takes a long time, that is, if you can get her attention (I was the only customer in the store when I walked in). 2. When I first asked a price I was told in a way that assumed I couldn't afford it they everything in that case was at least $2,000. 3. Attitude. I'm a middle-aged, successful person. No need for 20-something sales women to act superior. I treat them with respect and expect the same in return. 4. When someone finally asked if I needed help (a person somewhat interested in at least playing the role of a salesperson) she seemed to want to help but not to really know what was in stock or what pieces were made of or any ballpark prices. She also seemed not really knowledgable about jewelry in general. She looked up one material/price for me and it took 5-10 minutes to find it. 5. Due to lack of service I couldn't even come close to selecting something. I realized they were going to close soon so I asked what time they were closing. I was BARKED AT like a person who was loitering, "In TWO MINUTES WE'RE CLOSING." I crassly said I was planing to spend a significant amount of money, but I guess that wasn't very interesting to this store! An even slightly ambitious person would happily have said to take a little time and offered help. They were like, Buh-bye! I'll look at their website and contact the designers directly.

I have bought several one of a kind pieces at Love Adorned. Yes, they are not cheap but jewelry is…read morelike art to me and it's really what you're willing to pay for it. I have been treated very kindly in the Santa Monica location (when it was open) by most all the staff (thank you Becka) so really no complaints there. I'd like to take this YELP opportunity to shout out to the woman who purchased the GOLD MERMAID CHARM WITH AQUAMARINE IN HER HANDS...if you ever want to sell it, let me know. It has a special meaning for me and I should have grabbed it when I had the chance. Sheila (sheilabmtv@yahoo.com)

If you are the type of person who really loves unique and QUALITY items, you will love this little…read moreshop. Also, if you are someone who really goes by the ENERGY of a place...the overall vibe...and if you like when you get the strong sense that everything in the establishment is very carefully selected and curated, then you too will love this place. I happened to pass by this place, yesterday, and was drawn in by the adorable exterior and the setup in the window. It appears that all or most items are made in Korea. Everything in the shop was 'just so'.... of very high quality, and very unique...particularly some of the pottery (mugs, teapots, teacups, etc.) I also saw candles, very delicate bracelets, etc. If you are looking for a present, either for yourself or for someone else who appreciates fine quality, I highly recommend this shop!

RainySundayMorning House is exactly the kind of hidden gem you love to stumble upon. This sweet…read morelittle shop is packed with Korean and Asian-inspired gifts, all carefully curated from local designers and smaller brands. They have the perfect amount of options, from beautiful jewelry and unique perfumes to lovely stationery and other thoughtful goods. The prices are really good, and what made the experience even better was the staff--they were super friendly and actually knew about nearly everything they carried. We especially loved browsing the stationery and testing the perfumes; each scent was unique and really well-crafted. It's a wonderful spot to find a special, one-of-a-kind gift or just treat yourself to something beautiful.