Beautiful local artwork that was reasonably priced. Knowledge staff that allowed us to export the art we liked on our own and was there when we were ready to learn more about the local artist and their work. Wish we had a local store like this that supported local artists like Practical Art. read more

This one was just ok for me, though I love that they support local artists! They have a large selection of unframed prints which is a great way to showcase more available art. Though the selection was small, the t-shirts were really nice. A lot of the art on the walls wasn't marked so I wasn't sure if it was for sale or not and didn't want to ask as we felt a bit uncomfortable with the person working. We had been excited about a few book titles only to be disappointed to find them blank inside and were talking about that to each other - not in a mean way just "aww darn that would be a cool book! and to be fair, other books on the table were books with content- and got a bit of a lecture on the artist and what journals are (we're meant to make the story or something like that). It felt condescending and unwelcoming. read more

Great place for locally made gifts. Inventory changes often, so every visit you'll discover new stuff. Staff is always helpful.

I've been here enough times that its time I gave one of the valley's great female entrepreneurs her due. Lisa Olson is fast becoming a towering figure among valley local businesses (and not just because she's 6 feet tall). Lisa's central Phoenix business has managed to mesh art with function all while promoting local creators in a fun, funky little store. If that wasn't enough, Lisa's business regularly gives back to local causes through special events regularly held at her store (more on that in a bit). If you've never been here before, allow me to set the scene. Look for Practical Art on the west side of Central Avenue and Medlock (just a few blocks north of Camelback). There's a tiny amount of parking in front, but you can find more in back via Pasadena Avenue (one block south of Medlock). The store has a wide variety of housewares, artwork, clothing, furniture, jewelry, as well as other trinkets and knick knacks. A rotating artwork collection is displayed on the wall near the front entrance and the store inventory changes out fairly regularly. I've shopped here myself every so often and found lots of gifts for friends and family members alike. I've bought everything from coasters to cups to a serving dish, to t-shirts, and even money clips. But if you're really looking for the ultimate experience at Practical Art, you're going to want to clear your schedule after 7pm every 4th Friday of the month. That's because every fourth Friday Lisa's sister Karen is serving up a mindblowing array of freshly baked pies for all to try. Just bring $10 ($20 if you want a chance to win your own pie from Karen) and bring your own plate to eat all the pie you can handle. And you'll need a big plate, as Karen typically cranks out at least a dozen unique individual pie creations every time. The best part? The proceeds from pie night go to a local charity. Since the Olson family began their charity pie nights in 2011, they've given more than $50k to various local charities. A more recent exciting development at the store is their partnership with other local businesses to create little pop up sections within the store. For example, Bunky Boutique (a wildly popular local clothing store in Downtown and Sky Harbor Airport) now has a section inside Practical Art. Also, Hidden Track Bottle Shop (another Downtown institution) has opened up a wine store inside Practical Art, with wine tastings at least once a week (as well as on charity pie nights). I guess what I'm saying is Practical Art is a pretty wonderful place. If you love supporting a local business selling local products from local vendors, you're in the right spot. If you've got a pie craving or want to support a local charity once a month, this is the place. Me? I'll keep coming for pie night, but I'll for sure be coming here after my next home purchase to give my new place an artful AZ centric feel. So cheers, Lisa. You've created something truly wonderful here in central Phoenix. But then I'm sure you already knew that. read more

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Not a place I would go to unreseptive I understand Covid but doors always locked other business seem to have adjusted it is bad business practice. Poor artists who put their work in there. I have friends that say they were judged when they went in their. Money was not an issue fir them but the way treated was. read more

When I was growing up, we used to go to a store called South's in Waco. You never knew what they would have but always interesting things would be on the shelves. This is how I feel about Practical Art, a little art shop that you would miss if you didn't know it was there. From baby sweaters knitted by a lady over 90, to small robots, to all kinds of ceramics, to art on the walls, Practical Art has a bit of everything. I found a candle that reminds me of the fires at the cabin at Kohl's Ranch. It is a fun shop that has a special showing by a different artist every month. The real beauty of Practical art is that everything is handmade by Arizona Artists. So if you want something really individual, you can go there. I would park in the back, though they have a few spaces on Central in front. It is much easier to get in and out. read more

Love the shop, which features local only and handmade art - paintings, graphic art, ceramics, pottery ... it goes on! Friendly and helpful staff will tell you whatever you want to know. Great social media program keeps you up-to-date with new pieces. You make a half hour apptmt to visit so it doesn't get overcrowded. Bought one thing online, and two more when I went to pick the first one up! read more

I enjoy shopping in this shop for real estate closing and other gifts. I'm not sure if this is a consignment shop, but local artists sell their products here. The products are quite unique and well displayed. And those for whom I buy really love what I give them. Since I love to buy local, I am so thankful to find so many local artists' work in one location. read more

"BUY LOCAL! SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTISTS!" How many times do you hear that? How often do you really listen and truly seek out local businesses when you are looking for the perfect birthday gift, or that one-of-a-kind memorable anniversary present for your favorite human? Admit it, don't you rush out at the last minute and buy a sweater or necklace from a big box store because you put it off until the last minute? Well, the holidays are only 5+ months away . . . and I just bet that you have several birthdays, anniversaries, wedding showers, thank you and house warming gifts that you need to find before then. Why wait? Check out PRACTICAL ARTS for a locally-made, hand-crafted perfect gift. Everything in the shop is "100% locally handmade." That perfect gift for you, your family or your friends is just sitting there waiting for you to find it and take it home. When you walk out with the perfect anniversary gift your heart will swell with pride that you supported local artisans; and your purchase will be a colorful reminder that you took the time to select just the right colorful and practical gift for that really important person in your life . . . could even be you! read more

The sisters here have it going on and offer the coolest art from the local community. Join the monthly art club and every month is like your bday! It is also a fun stop to chat and check out the constantly changing offerings. Also, do not forget their pies!!!! One of my favorite spots in AZ!!! read more

Amazing find! Such a friendly staff - they brewed a cup of tea for me and even entertained my 4 year old daughter so I could shop. I loved my new found treasures. Can't wait to back! read more

This place is a big part of why I fell head over heels for Phoenix. The store carries the work of over 125 Arizona artisans that create everything from hand-painted ceramic bowls to small tables to turquoise pens. There are also hats, soaps, jewelry and cards. Everything is so unique and it gives you an appreciation for the artistic culture of the state. The prices vary from the "spontaneous gift" point to the "investing in my personal collection." Beyond the "practical" art, there is a wall show of fine art that rotates every month and regular community events are hosted in the shop. Simply put, it's easy to become a friend of Practical Art. read more

Practical Art - Pen necklaces by an Arizona woodworker. Just one of many fabulous pieces! - Home Decor Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I adore this shop for its commitment to supporting wonderful local Artists and Makers as well as their creative ways to bring community together and help nonprofit organizations. Give me all the Charity Pie Night vegan pies ... for charity only, of course.. I like to help. read more

I ended up at Practical Art randomly a few weeks back. I love the concept of art that is somehow useful in a literal way (although figuratively useful art is also fantastic). I'm a sucker for businesses like this and wish I didn't live in a tiny guest house so that I could justify more practical art in my world. With the holiday season coming up, I'll be sure to stop in and see if I can find a unique, locally made gift for someone that I adore. The time I did purchase something was this adorable purple glass night light and every time I see it, it makes me smile. A definite stop in! read more

Usually I want to love places like this but can never find anything useful, practical, or tasteful. I don't want to collect stuff(I don't really love) for the sake of simply helping a local business. Practical Art has helped change my perception. Guaranteed you are not going to love EVERYTHING but I found more then a handful of items I actually liked(or loved). We were there looking for a wedding gift for a friend after refusing to buy into the generic Macy's gift registry list that was offered up. We ended up leaving with something for ourselves but will be back wedding gift shopping in the near future. The very friendly and helpful person working that day also told us they did gift registry if we wanted to send our friends in(ugh yeah, that might be tough). The best part of our experience is when we checked out they didn't try to shove a plastic/paper bag down our throats - in fact they didn't even have any. Awesome. read more

This little shop is practically a work of art itself! Between the multiple vendors (all local mind you), unique inventory and a complete schedule of classes, Practical Arts lives up to its name. This is the store you visit when you're hunting for a unique gift or you simply want to browse creative works of local vendors throughout Phoenix. Practical Art sells everything from unique business card holders and metal coat racks, to fireplace tools, furniture and plenty of accessories for your home or yourself. It's really hard to explain but its worth visiting and you'll most definitely find a gift for that hard-to-buy friend. Pricing wise, the pieces here range from $20 to $400 but it all depends on the artist and on the item. It's obvious that metal is going to be more expensive then wood. I even saw blown glass kitchen appliances such as serving spoons and butter knives. Everything is so unique here. It's an adorable shop and adorable inventory. read more

I love stopping in every couple months to see what new items they've gotten in. Some things are just not my style, but there is always a great assortment of wood, glass, metal, cloth, and ceramic functional art. I've purchased several sets of wine bottles turned into glasses by Refresh Glass. Everyone I've given a set to has loved them. You may have seen Ray's glasses in both Postinos locations. Some things seem over-priced, but I get it. They are local, struggling (maybe?) artists trying to make a living. And for that, I support them! read more

I think this is the BEST retail store in the state for local artists. If you are looking for something unique for someone special Practical Art should be your first stop. Are you looking for ceramic or pottery, furniture, lights, jewelry or maybe even an apron for that wonderful great aunt or grandmacita? Be practical make a bee line for Practical Art first and then splurge! I always arrive wishing I had more $ and leave wishing I had more $! read more

I am only giving 1 star due to the terrible service. There is one woman that works there in particular that is very unpleasant. No smiles. I had a return, within the given # of days, but she almost seemed personally offedned that I was returning it and was very short throughout the transaction... I love the merchandise and have purchased some great mosaic tile pots. I like the eclectic mix of items and will go back but will not expect good customer service. read more

I was searching for a unique item to give as a Thank You gift and I stopped by Practical Art over the Labor Day weekend after viewing some items on their website. I was extremely under underwhelmed by the service I received and do not plan on returning. When I arrived the young woman behind the counter was having a personal conversation with an acquaintance. Besides the employee and her conversation buddy the store was empty. I spent about ten minutes looking around and the young woman did not have the common courtesy to acknowledge me with a simple "Hello", even as I was viewing items directly in front of the counter. When I was leaving the store she did break long enough to say "Bye". I believe it is very important to support local business but I will not spend my money here. I did find several items I wanted to buy and made note of the artist. I have done the extra leg work to reach out to them to find out how to purchase their items through other channels. I do not feel they should miss a sale due to the sub par customer service at this location. read more

The first time I walked into Practical Art was around Christmas 2008, I was in a shopping mood and had great fun in picking out unique gifts for some friends and family. There are so many choices of ceramics and pottery that were absolutely beautiful! It was difficult to not buy everything in the store! Especially when the nice shop gal was so helpful and told me everything was made by locals. I've returned a few times since then to either just look or grab another perfect gift. If anything, you should go in just to take a peek and who knows.... you will probably come home with a little something for yourself or find the perfect gift! read more

How incredibly adorable!! Practical Art is just what the name implies - tons of items that are beautiful works of art that have the bonus of being able to be used in your everyday life - cooking dinner, having a glass of wine, relaxing in the living room, sending greetings to friends and so much more. Most of the items are for the home and sadly aren't the style of mine, which makes it hard to buy for myself here. However, I have a feeling this will be a potential gift spot for friends for years to come. And I just realized, people may now try to vie for my friendship or get engaged just knowing of potential gifts they will receive. The employee that was there was really nice as I aimlessly walked about, but after seeing the special offer on yelp of iced tea or tequila, I'm suddenly sad I wasn't offered any. read more

Practical Art is an awesome little shop with tons to look at. Some of the items are a bit pricey but all of them were really cool. I stopped in there recently when hubby and I happened to be in the area (he wanted to check out the comic book place next door). As we perused the store, I felt like we were at an art walk or craft fair but it was indoors (though the a/c in there was not too great). I ended up purchasing a lovely vase with hand-blown glass flowers that hold tea light candles. Talk about a one-of-a-kind centerpiece! The proprietor was very helpful in selecting the right colors for my "bouquet" and even let us in the back storeroom to check out some more options. I ended up with a really beautiful piece and it felt good supporting a local artisan. I will definitely return whenever I need a unique gift for someone special. read more

Practical Arts is probably the best place in Phoenix to find hand-crafted gift and home items. From gorgeous handled chef knives to glass plates, and everything you can't think of in-between, it's the obvious place to do your Buy Local shopping. Even the traveler or tourist will find something that speaks to them and says, "take me home". Comfortable atmosphere run by folks engaged in the local community. You will find something you like and if for someone else, they will envy your knowledge of good shopping locations. Prices range from inexpensive to hope you can afford it, but that's the beauty of art, it comes in many forms. read more

There are about 150 AZ artists and creatives hosted inside Practical Art with a variety of offerings for something special for someone special, especially yourself~ Monthly Pie Social on the 4th Friday of each month that benefits different local charities! read more

What a fun and funky store. We were offered water (in REAL breakable glasses, no less) upon entry and the salesperson was very helpful and friendly. It's effectively an artist co-op which means there is a LOT of variety and it rotates regularly. Prices are on the spendier side but not unreasonable. Reminds me of a bit of my favorite artist co-op in Jerome. If you need an interesting gift or just a little something-something, you're bound to find it here. read more

I was only in Phoenix for a short time and am so glad that I included here in my visit. There is such a rich variety of art here that anyone should be able to find something that works for them. I sent out a few postcards from here and everyone loved them. Just browsing about was an experience in itself (which I probably did for about 40 minutes), and Andrea (the lady working there when I entered) was super informative about the artists and the local scene. They were also super helpful in keeping this out-of-towner hydrated... the dry air is not something I was used to. Highly recommended! read more

Love the unique items you can find in this store! I went for a gift but it was hard because there were so many things that I wanted for myself. The ornament that I purchased as a Christmas gift literally made the person I gave it to cry, she loved it so much. If you are looking for something beautiful and unique to give to someone this is a great place to stop. read more

This store is a favorite gift shop packed with original handicrafts by local artists. I often purchase their clay mugs when I find the right handle. It is a wonderful holiday shopping spot, but stock up early because as a major holiday approaches, the inventory lessens. There are handmade jewelry items, glassware, pottery, and metal art. If you're looking for an original gift, this is your place! Lastly, please bring your recycled gift bags and paper to the store. They use it for packaging items. The pricing is quite reasonable for original art!! read more

Practical Art - Practical Art on Central - Home Decor Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Great find, not sure what took me so long to find them. I walked in with what I wanted already in my head as I had seen an image of it on their website. Not only did I receive wonderful service but my item was gift wrapped for me at no charge!!! Great local artists, not schlockey gift store crap. I will be back!!! read more

If you are like me, and honestly get seriously depressed by the seemingly endless landscape of soul-less chain stores, mega-malls and Wal-Marts that is Phoenix.... Practical Art is the antidote! My arty, indie, beauty-craving spirit comes alive again, just walking in, seeing this lovely shop filled with tasteful, quality, 100% HANDMADE arts and crafts, all made by local artists right here in Arizona! I need to take time to look at every single object here. I'm smiling as I think of the quirky items (bee shelters, anyone?) and naturally gorgeous specimens (hollowed mesquite bowls that look like they would be at home in a museum). Practical Art gives me newfound appreciation for the talented artists of Arizona. The shop is beautifully curated by proprietors who have a great eye for design, color and style. Prices range from under $10 to several hundreds. And like the name says, it's "practical art" meaning that you can use it in your home. Useful goods for your kitchen, office, or garden, wearable jewelry art and textiles. Many will last for a lifetime or even longer, if properly cared for. This shop also doubles as an art gallery, with a rotating exhibit of local artists. I was lucky to catch the last day of a beautiful show by photographer Patrick Madigan. They have art openings on First Fridays. This is a friendly place, no snooty attitude here, and no pushy salespeople. The owners are obviously passionate about supporting local artists and enjoy sharing their knowledge. They might offer you some tea or lemonade while you look around. It even smells good in here. From now on, this will be my go-to place to shop for cool, one-of-a-kind gifts for special people. Please support local artists, buy quality handmade goods, and keep money in our local economy! read more

Hip boutique full of various artsy gifts and decor. Wide range of product from kitted items, ceramics, metal work, jewelry, dishes, wood work, trinket boxes, sculpture, etc. Style ranges from bohemian to industrial to nerd culture. Something for anyone looking for a non-mass produced product. Prices can be high, but I don't mind as all products are handmade by local Arizona artisans. And some things are quite affordable. The sales person was friendly and helpful. She offered us wine or water and was very welcoming. The space is open and roomy. A pleasurable shopping experience overall. read more

This place has an awesome eclectic collection of both practical pieces and fun artistic works. Owners are awesome and service is always on point. read more

Practical Art - Home Decor Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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This holiday season, I set a goal for myself to shop local as much as possible. I just happened to stumble upon an item from this shop on my Insta and thought it would be a great holiday gift. Unfortunately, I waited a couple of days to go back to the website and purchase and when I did, the item was completely sold out. So I reached out and emailed them to see if they'd be getting any more items before Christmas. Well, let me tell you - the service level I received after that email was nothing short of phenomenal! I spoke with Lisa who took my name and contact info and promised to notify me if any more came in before the big day. Just a few days later, she reached out to let me know the artist had brought more to the store AND she was holding some back for me, just in case. When I did finally place my order, they even delivered them to me ON THE WEEKEND for no extra charge. People, THIS is why we shop local! You don't get service like this when you buy big box and their merchandise is beautiful and unique! My new go to shop for those hard to buy friends/family! read more

This place always has new creative items made right here in the valley. They feature local artists and rotate quite frequently. Many great items for the living room as well as kitchen that will make you look very hip to your friends. There is also plenty of wall items to spice up any room You should also make it a point to seek out their "special" events which occur monthly. My favorite is "pie night" where delicious home made pies are made available with proceeds going to a local charity. The pies are like none other, you'll just have to drop by. read more

Why is Practical Art 2,000 miles away from home? This place is AWESOME. I love to shop local when I am traveling, and Practical Art features pieces by local Phoenix artists in all sorts of media - ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, glass, woodworking, and even puppets! I spent a couple of hours in here, perusing all of the items, and had to talk myself down from filling my suitcase with treasures. One of the items I was having trouble putting down was a wooden robot made by Jordan Alexander with two hidden compartments (one full of springs!). I lamented that he wouldn't make it home safely with the TSA and luggage handling... and the store offered to ship him to me for a very reasonable price! He made it home just after I did. I also bought a puppet, a horned fox who I named Gek. I only bought fun, impractical things, but the name is totally right - my friend got a lovely mug, and they have lots of creative household items. There's a rotating art display, which featured some fairly creepy (but cool) dolls during my visit. Now I'm following the store on Instagram, so I can see the new art from afar! Then if I see something I want... I know they ship. I just wish I was in town for all of the cool classes and events they advertise! read more

In a city long accused of lacking any distinct persona, Central Ave. and Camelback is quickly becoming metropolitan Phoenix's cultural hub. And -- for me -- Practical Art has become a major player in the shift. The shop features local artisans who make things you can use around the house: everything from handcrafted knives and gorgeous ceramics to unusual jewelry and funky furniture. The really surprising part? Unlike some of the more pretentious offerings around town, you can actually afford the stuff that Practical Art sells. A place where you can support local artists, pick up adorable and functional items, AND keep your budget intact? That's a pretty good deal. read more

I'm really quite surprised I have never reviewed this place. In an effort to try and keep our Christmas shopping as local as possible this year, we decided to check out Practical Art and see what they had. They have quite an impressive array of "practical art" ranging from rustic pottery, fallen mesquite French Rolling Pins, glass handled silverware, knitted items, glass items, and everything in between. I fondled the rolling pins for a time that could be deemed inappropriate but they are beautiful. No trees were harmed in the process of making those beautiful babies. They also had a cute Christmas display of glass and metal ornaments at the checkout counter and we couldn't help but buy a beautiful orange glass snowflake. This is a really great store where you could probably find a unique and beautiful gift for that hard to buy for person on your list. read more

Impressive collection of local artist handcrafted work - pottery, wood, tile, glass, paper, jewelry, fiber...so many beautiful things to look at and touch. Everytime I stop in I end up finding something special, either for myself or as a gift - Knowledgeable and friendly staff - a definite yes! read more

I just sort of wandered into this place while shopping at other stores in the same neighborhood, and i am glad that i did. Its a great concept usable art. The store has a range of items to purchase from bowls and knives to night lights and journals. Everything is made by local artist and the staff was very friendly and helpful. I bought a few things and would definitely shop there again. read more