Keep money in the hands of our locals by saying goodbye to greedy corporations and mass-produced products, and shopping locally. The next time you need to purchase a gift for someone, support your neighbors while boosting the local economy with our list of unique and locally made arts, crafts, and goods.  Shopping locally is more than a cute slogan; it’s a revolution and how we survive a corporate coup.

Locavore Gift Guide

1. The Boulder Flower Farm 

Flower workshop – Longmont 

Gift someone a new skill with a fun and informative flower-arranging workshop from the Boulder Flower Farm. For over 35 years, this farm and wedding venue has been providing the community with ornamental flowers. It offers the perfect opportunity to express yourself and work with a variety of colors, flowers, and textures by creating a beautiful floral design in one of their many floral design workshops. 

This is a great gift for creative-minded people.  boulderflowerfarm.com – 4114 Oxford Rd, Longmont, CO 

2. Lishma Love 

Mushroom light catcher – Online 

If you’re looking for a truly unique gift, you’ll want to look at these adorable mushroom light catchers from Lishma Love, inspired by all things fungi. Place these dainty glass mushrooms in sunlight to create a dreamy and ethereal ambiance. The cute, pastel-colored fungi hand-blown glass ornaments are more than just a whimsical gift that looks stunning in the sunlight. Part of the proceeds from the sale is donated to provide scholarships for students seeking psychedelic therapy.  lishmalove.com/shop

3. Local Books and Music

Gift Card – Erie, Lafayette, Longmont, Boulder 

Got a bookworm in your life? A gift card to any one of the local bookstores is one of the best local gifts you can give a book lover. Located in Old Town Erie is the Briggs Street Books and Music, which stocks all books and music from all genres, as well as fun bookish gifts. 

The Read Queen, in Lafayette, offers an in-house coffee shop along with a range of new and used books, furthering the gift card experience.

Composition Shop just opened in Longmont and carries a healthy selection of bestsellers, local authors, and a variety that extends well beyond romance novels.

Finally, the Boulder Bookstore not only has an extensive collection of books for any reader to find their next pick, but also events with popular authors sharing their work.   

briggsstreetbooks.com  –  615 Briggs St Unit D, Erie 

thereadqueen.com – 129 N Harrison Ave, Lafayette

compositionshop.com – 356 Main St, Longmont

boulderbookstore.net – 1107 Pearl St, Boulder

4. The Singing Cook 

Gift Card & Gifts – Louisville 

Located in the historic downtown of Louisville is a local favorite: The Singing Cook. This store is the best place to find some unique and essential kitchen items. From cool kitchen gadgets to quality bakeware, this is the ultimate place to shop for the cook in your life. You’ll even be able to find plenty of locally-made products! singingcookstore.com  – 728 Main St., Louisville

 5. Mudslingers Pottery School 

In-store creative class – Lafayette 

Got a creative person in your life? Why not gift them with a fun, creative class at Mudslingers Pottery School? This ceramic school and creative studio was established in 1997 and has since shared the love of ceramics with all who join its classes. Learn how to use a pottery wheel and hand-build some stunning pieces. There are several classes and workshops that you can purchase a gift certificate for. mudslingerspottery.com – 414 E Simpson St. Lafayette, CO

 6. Farfel’s Farm 

Trump chew toys – Boulder 

Spoil your pooch with a fun and cheeky chew toy from Farfel’s Farm. Farfel’s Farm is a unique, creative store on Pearl Street that offers high-quality pet products and services. 

Our choice of gift? These creative Trump chew dolls are durable and well-stuffed for plenty of hours of wild fun. There are some other “politically sound” dog toy options available from this store as well. The best part about letting your dog go wild on a Trump doll? The proceeds of this chew toy are used to help Farfel’s Farm & Rescue save hundreds of dogs from high-kill shelters yearly and place them in loving foster homes.  farfels.com – 906 Pearl Street, Boulder

7. Vintrey Honest Goods 

Lafayette  

Sometimes gift shopping can be hard if you don’t have a gift idea in mind. Why not take a stroll through Vintrey Honest Goods and get inspired? This small family-owned business in Lafayette stocks a wide selection of goods from local artisans. Browse through the unique vintage merchandise and small batch goods to find the perfect gift. vintrey.com  – 107 S Public Rd, Lafayette

 8. Adorn Home & Gift Gallery

Longmont 

Support the local economy and local artisans by picking a gift that is truly unique at Adorn Home & Gift Gallery. For over 17 years, this gift shop has provided a one-stop location for unique gift shopping. Don’t know what you’re looking for? That’s okay. Browse through the collections of colorful decor, pampering products, jewelry, children’s gifts, and other knick-knacks that catch your eye and will make a special gift! Browse through products from over 160 vendors!  adornadornables.com – 5480, 661 4th Ave, Longmont

 9. Thalken 

Locally-made jewelry – Lafayette 

Thalken is a locally owned and operated jewelry and gift store. What started as a presence at pop-up events grew into a friendly store that is a staple in the local community. Husband and wife duo, William and Hana, sell a wide range of perfect gift items, including Hana’s handmade jewelry, rustic and organic pottery, cozy socks, and hand-poured soap. thalken.com  – 101 1/2 E Chester St, Lafayette

 10. Boulder Free Flight 

Paragliding experience – online 

Looking for a non-traditional and thrilling gift idea for the adventure seeker in your life? Why not buy them an unforgettable paragliding experience and let them witness the beauty of the Rockies from the sky? This experience will have you flying tandem with a professional paragliding pilot, where you will get to soak in the views of the Continental Divide to the West, Boulder’s iconic Flatirons to the South, and the Great Plains to the East. This is an amazing gravity-defying experience they’ll never forget. redtailparagliding.com/tandem-paragliding-boulder

 11. Art Parts Creative Reuse Center

Gift certificate – Boulder 

Surprise the environmentally conscious person in your life with a thoughtful and sustainable gift:  a gift voucher to the Arts Parts Creative Reuse Center. Arty people, crafters, and DIY enthusiasts will enjoy browsing through the abundance of colorful art supplies from shelves brimming with colorful beads, ribbons, yarn, paints, and one-of-a-kind objects waiting to be transformed into something creative. This non-profit reuse center repurposes unused art and craft supplies to keep them out of landfills. A gift voucher for this eco-friendly store is a great way to spark creativity while supporting a meaningful mission.   artpartsboulder.org – 3080 Valmont Road, Boulder

 12. Piece, Love & Chocolate    

Chocolate making class – Boulder 

Give the chocolate lover in your life a truly unique gift: learning how to make chocolate! Piece, Love & Chocolate is a local chocolatier that has been around since 2011, and it is where all your sugary dreams come true. The classes include learning how to make handcrafted truffles, classic macarons, and baking decadent lava cakes. This is a great gift and a fun way to pick up some new skills. pieceloveandchocolate.com –  805 Pearl Street, Boulder

 13. Highland Honey

Jar of creamed honey – online 

Enjoy a spoonful of creamed honey made from local Boulder County apiaries in your cup of warm tea or in your favorite baking recipes. This creamy and rich honey is raw and unheated, so you don’t have to worry about it crystallizing. Located in the foothills and mountains of Boulder County, you can taste the complex flavors of wildflowers. This is the perfect locally-made gift for someone sweet in your life.  highlandbees.com

 14. Flatiron Pepper Co

Super hot spice set – online 

Gift the foodie in your life with a feisty spice set from locally-owned Flatiron Pepper Co. These chiles and peppers from all around the world are mixed together to create a unique blend, from mild and flavorful to rich and spicy, each with its own character. The super hot set comes with three rich and smoky flavors to enjoy on foods like pizza, pasta, steak, and any other dish you can think of. Not only is this a fantastic food lover’s gift, but it also supports a passionate local business with a bold taste.  flatironpepper.com/products/dark-smoky-2

 15. Local Coffee Producers  

Bag of coffee – Online & Local

We cannot think of a better gift for coffee lovers than a bag or two of aromatic coffee from some of Boulder’s best local producers.  Peak State’s aromatic coffee, founded by an outdoor athlete and coffee lover, harnesses the natural powers of mushrooms without compromising on flavor. 

Pauls Coffee is a Louisville and Superior favorite, Pauls Coffee is all about small-batch roasting and the kind of consistency locals swear by. Their beans are smooth, balanced, and deeply reliable — the kind of everyday coffee gift that feels both local and personal. In Louisville and now open in Superior.

Ozo Coffee long a Boulder staple with locations through Boulder and one in Longmont, has a devoted following, Ozo Coffee has built its reputation on ethically sourced beans, meticulous roasting, and a community-minded approach. Their single-origin options and seasonal blends make thoughtful, well-crafted gifts for any coffee lover.

Ampersand Coffee is another great option. Not only is their organic coffee delicious, but the Boulder business also focuses on women’s empowerment by partnering with the International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA).  

Another coffee producer worth checking out is Silver Canyon Coffee. Established in 1985, they are the first small-batch, specialty roasters in Boulder. Coffee lovers will appreciate the curated selection of microlot and single-origin coffees.  

peakstatecoffee.com/collections/coffee-with-benefits 

paulscoffeeandtea.com

ozocoffee.com

ampersand-coffee.com 

silvercanyoncoffee.com

 16. Colorado Aromatics 

Bag O’ Balms – Longmont, CO 

Boulder County is home to some amazing skincare businesses, and Colorado Aromatics is a great place to do your gift shopping. Our pick is the Bag O’ Balms. This gift set comes with a knuckle balm made from calendula, myrrh, and plantain to soothe the skin. There is also a creamy foot butter made from mint, comfrey, and calendula, and a soothing lip balm made with jojoba oil and lemon. This is the perfect gift for those hot and dry Summer months in Boulder. coloradoaromatics.com/products/bag-o-balms

 17. Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary & Supply 

Therapeutics teas and tinctures – Boulder Got a tea lover in your life? We can’t think of a better gift than tea from Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary. The store stocks a wide range of botanical teas made from real plants and simple ingredients. Choose from sweet and light floral teas to powerful herbal teas for when you’re feeling under the weather. The range of teapots and infusers also makes for some lovely gift ideas! rebeccasherbs.com  – 1227 Spruce St, Boulder

 18. Boulder Ghost Boulder Tour 

Tickets to the haunted pub tour – Boulder 

Do something different for a gift and purchase tickets to the frighteningly exciting Boulder haunted pub tour. Visit some of Boulder’s most historic and allegedly haunted sites and learn the ghostly stories and historical background. This tour visits some of Boulder’s most haunted pubs, where you’ll get to enjoy a drink while the guides share tales of local history, myths, and legends. Bring your camera along for a night of fun, fright, and history if you dare!  boulderghosttours.com

 19. Beyond Boulder Bike Adventures 

Bike-N-Brew CruiseExplore the local breweries and disservices on a bicycle with this fun Bike-N-Brew cruise. This is the ultimate gift for someone who has always wanted to explore the iconic Flatirons and wildlife of Boulder, fueled by tastings of locally made gin, whisky, vodka, mead, or beer from each stop. This tour will take participants along a flat, paved creekside bike path for an easy ride between stops. This 3-4 hour ride is packed with fun, fitness, and fabulous spirits.  beyondboulderadventures.com – Boulder 

 20. Planks & Paint   

Crafty workshops – Broomfield  

Gift your loved one the experience of making something from scratch while learning a new skill. Planks & Paint offers a wide selection of fun and social workshops where you can learn to make crushed-glass art, signs and decor, resin art, and burn hats and decorate with wood flowers. planksandpaint.com  – 12716 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield

 21. Brewhop Trolley  

Brewery Tour

Longmont is home to some amazing brewing companies, and the Brewhop Trolley is a great way to try them all. In 2016, the Brewhop Trolley launched with a Hop-on + Hop-off loop that takes visitors to Longmont’s best tasting rooms. On this tour, visitors will get to explore the offerings from taprooms like Pumphouse Brewery, 300 Suns Brewing, Left Hand Brewing Company, and more. This is the ultimate gift experience for beer lovers!  brewhoptrolley.com – Longmont

Local Markets and Stores to Find Unique Gifts 

Although these places don’t have a specific gift item on our list, they’re a great place to discover unique and locally-made gifts that you may not have thought of before.  

 22. Old Friends 

This local Louisville gift store was opened in 2009 as a way to bring a little joy and laughter to the local community through fun cards and gifts. Fast forward 15 years and Old Friends is now a popular spot to find a unique gift. Browse through shelves of funky socks with Rocky Mountain-themed designs, fashionable jewelry, and plenty of other unique gift ideas with an emphasis on bringing joy.  oldfriendslouisville.com – 706 Front St, Louisville

 23. Boulder County Farmers Market

One of the best places to shop for local gifts is at the Boulder County Farmers Market. Twice a week, on Saturdays and Wednesdays, this market hosts a wide variety of local vendors and Colorado producers. This is the best place to visit if you’re looking for a foodies gift. Take a stroll through the market and browse through vendors selling products like fresh flowers, plants, cheese, and meat from the local farms. Your gift options are endless, with ideas like artisanal chocolate, locally-made honey, authentic pasta, decadent French cookies, and zesty pickles. bcfm.org/markets – 13th Street between Arapahoe Ave & Canyon Boulevard, Boulder 

 24. The Lafayette Flea

Thrift shopping is a great way to find a truly unique gift that matches the recipient’s personality and style. The Lafayette Flea in Lafayette is an exciting multi-dealer market that sells vintage, repurposed, and local goods inside what used to be a 60s bowling alley before being transformed into a flea market in the 1990s. Browse through an eclectic mix of clothing, funky jewelry, furniture, and other odds and ends you won’t find at a mass-produced commercial chain, which is why Lafayette Flea is a must-visit place for gift shopping.  thelafayetteflea.com – 130 East Spaulding Street, Lafayette

 25. Longmont Farmers Market 

Do some gift shopping at Longmont Farmer’s Market, which offers a fantastic farm-to-table experience. As a growers-only market, you’ll be able to purchase the freshest local produce, including freshly baked goods, Colorado meat, coffee beans, cheeses, spices, jewelry, and wine. You’ve got plenty of gift choices at this bustling market. bcfm.org/markets/longmont-farmers-market – 9595 Nelson Rd, Longmont

 BONUS! Niwot Market 

Do your gift shopping at one of the few locally-owned grocery stores in Colorado. The Niwot Market is a family-owned and operated store that is an integral part of the Niwot community. Stocking high-quality, healthy, and local products, there are plenty of great gifts waiting to be bought. There’s a wide variety of baked desserts that foodies will appreciate, natural beauty products, and handmade jewelry. Explore the tables of knick-knacks with gift ideas like candles and ceramics. niwotmarket.com – 7980 Niwot Rd, Niwot

Retailers Picks

by Yellow Scene staff

 1. Alpaca Connection

1334 Pearl St, Boulder • 303-447-2047 • alpacaConnection.us

The Pick: Handmade alpaca baby hats made by owner Lidia Holl. Price: $39.99. A luxurious alpaca wool coat with intricate embroidery, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern style.

Who It’s For: Fashion-forward and ethically conscious consumers.

Other Services: Alpaca clothing, boutique favorites, unique gifts, accessories, menswear.

 2. Boulder Philharmonic

boulderphil.org • 303-449-1343 • boulderphil.org

The Pick: Winter Wind’erland with Boulder Phil Woodwind Quintet.
Join us at charming Niwot Hall on December 10 at 6 PM for some of the season’s best merry-making: live holiday music, hands-on crafts, and cozy treats to warm your spirit!

Who It’s For: All members of the family.

Other Services: The Boulder Philharmonic offers a full season of concerts that bring our community together and keep the music alive. Student/children tickets are only $10 for most performances. Tickets at BoulderPhil.org • (303) 449-1343 • info@boulderphil.org

 3. Bricks Retail

512 4th Ave #103, Longmont • 720-680-0555 • bricksretail.com

The Pick: Sip and Shop!
Toast to holiday cheer while finding the perfect presents – because shopping for joy should be as delightful as giving it. Explore Bricks to find various gift options perfect for anyone on your list! Local shop with souvenirs, hats, shirts, candles, jewelry, toys/games and so much more. Open daily at 10am.

Who It’s For: Ideal for the holiday enthusiast who believes that every successful shopping spree deserves a celebratory cocktail!

Other Services: Gift wrapping, holiday events, gift baskets. Full food and bar at Miss Krissy’s.

 4. Energy Arts

1602 9th Ave, Longmont • 303-990-8990 • energyarts.com

The Pick: Taoist Breathing for Tai Chi and Meditation
A journey to EMBODY the Dao. Existing for more than 2,000 years, now in 250 languages, the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) is a timeless classic. Ten years in the making and from a true insider’s perspective, passed to current lineage holder Bruce K. Frantzis by Liu Hung Chieh in the original oral tradition: “These are the words… this is what they mean… this is how to do what is proposed.” – Liu Hung Chieh, Daoist Sage.

Who It’s For: For those seeking wisdom: the Way and the Power, the philosopher in the family, and everyone you know with a spiritual bent.

Other Services: Qigong, Tai Chi, meditation, Ba Gua, Hsing-i, and Dao Yoga live classes, online programs, books, and DVDs.

 5. Frequent Flyers Aerial Dance Studio

3022 Sterling Cir Suite 150, Boulder • 303-245-8272 • frequentflyers.org

The Pick: Arts and Aerial Dance
Create and promote the magic of aerial dance through performance and education.

Who It’s For: Those who want to fly!

Other Services: Youth, teen and adult classes, performances, Aerial Dance Festival.

6. Groundworks Lab

3750 Canfield Street, Boulder • 720-379-6033 • groundworksmartlab.org

The Pick: The Annual Holiday Art Market, Dec. 13–14 from 10–5.
Come support local artists and stuff your stockings with handmade gifts for everyone on your list (throw in a lil’ something for yourself too, you deserve it).

Who It’s For: With many local artists participating, there’s sure to be something for everyone!

Other Services: Classes in wood, glass, print, clay and metal.

 7. Jax Outdoor Gear

900 South Highway 287, Lafayette • 720-266-6160 • jaxgoods.com

The Pick: Local Artisan Products
A collection of unique items crafted by local artisans, from bespoke outdoor gear to handcrafted farm and ranch supplies.

Who It’s For: Local explorer – for those appreciating the quality and authenticity of locally made products.

Other Services: Gear rentals, classes for outdoor adventures, top brand products, coffee bars, ice cream, and activities for kids.

 8. Larkridge Shopping Center

16542 Washington Street, Thornton • 303-595-9919 • shoplarkridge.com

The Pick: Your destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and everyday services with more than 45 retailers. Here’s to a safe, healthy and happy holiday season!

 9. Longmont Downtown Development Association (LDDA)

320 Main St, Longmont • 303-651-8484 • downtownlongmont.com

The Pick: Downtown Longmont Gift Card
Downtown Longmont Gift Cards are the perfect gift! Send your loved ones on a choose-your-own-adventure of food, drink, shopping, personal services, and more in downtown Longmont!

Who It’s For: Downtown Longmont Gift Cards are the perfect gift for everyone! With more than 70 participating businesses, everyone on your list will find something they love.

 10. Longmont Museum

400 Quail Rd, Longmont • 303-651-8374 • longmontcolorado.gov/museum

The Pick: Cultural Center & Gift Shop
Discover everything the Longmont Museum has to offer, from world-class exhibitions to engaging events, programs and a local’s favorite gift shop.

Who It’s For: The curious, families, history buffs.

Other Services: Museum exhibits, retail gift shop. You can support the Longmont Museum by becoming a member, joining the giving club, making a donation, volunteering, or buying gift certificates.

 11. Longmont Theatre

513 Main St, Longmont • 303-772-5200 • longmonttheatre.org

The Pick: Local theatre company and performing arts center since 1957
Dedicated to enhancing our quality of life and fostering vibrant, active community engagement through all forms of the performing arts and live shared experiences.

Who It’s For: The theater or arts lover; local entertainment.

Other Services: Season passes, ticket sales, academy and venue rental.

 12. Motus Theater

P.O. Box 6080, Boulder • 720-432-2004 • motustheater.org

Storytelling is at the heart of what makes us human. We focus on bringing silenced histories and marginalized voices to the stage:

• Multimedia performances exploring U.S. history through the lens of race and class that expose what has been pushed to the margins of historical narratives.

• Autobiographical monologue performance projects with those whose voices have been marginalized and live on the frontlines of violence in our country.

By creating performances that illuminate foundational patterns of exploitation in U.S. history, and sharing autobiographical stories that disrupt false and dehumanizing narratives used to justify inhumane and exploitative policies, Motus supports cultural and policy shifts that uplift our shared humanity.

Tickets to a show make a great gift and we always appreciate donations.

13. Boulder Drum Shop

3070 28th Street, Ste. D, Boulder • 303-402-0122 • boulderdrumshop.com

The Pick: Yamaha Drums
Yamaha drums from Boulder Drum Shop, known for exceptional quality and durability, perfect for any genre.

Who It’s For: Rhythm maestro – for drummers seeking precision and versatility in their beats.

Other Services: Array of drums and ethnic percussion instruments, lessons, wide range of brands including Sonor, Pacific, Pearl, Ludwig.

 14. School of Rock Broomfield

West 120th Avenue Unit A & B, Broomfield • 303-325-3772 • schoolofrock.com/locations/broomfield

Drum • Guitar • Bass • Keyboard • Singing lessons

The gift of music can come in many forms, but at School of Rock Broomfield, it comes with stage performances. Our music programs for kids in Broomfield are designed to get students on stage performing, with the goal of building strong musical proficiency.

Valar-Aesthetics, Erie CO

 15. Valar Aesthetics

671 Mitchell Way Suite 210, Erie • 720-740-8980 • valarmedspa.com

The Glam Fam is our new and exciting loyalty program with TONS of great perks!
Dr. Bauer is certified in two Aesthetic Medicine Boards as well as Board Certified in Family Medicine. He has been practicing for more than a decade and brings all of his medical and aesthetic expertise to every encounter.

 16. Yellow Scene Magazine

Serving Boulder  County & the North Metro Region • yellowscene.com

The Pick: Independent local news magazine for Boulder County & the North Metro.
Give and Get Democracy – #newsCO needs.

Who It’s For: Those who care about truth and democracy.

Give & Get: When you support Yellow Scene, you strengthen democracy, keep truth accessible, and receive the magazine delivered to your home. Help us reach our goal of $5,000 — just 52 new sustaining supporters.
$8/month = $96 – fully matched during the campaign = $192.

Your contribution today ensures local journalism stays free, fearless, and people-powered. Give today and double your impact for independent news.

Other Services: Graphic design, advertising, online and event marketing, marketing consultations, SuperKids Expo event.

Restaurants

Busaba

133 S. McCaslin Blvd., Louisville
303-665-0330 • busabaco.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Taj Mahal III

1075 E. S. Boulder Rd., #145, Louisville
303-926-0999 • tajmahal3.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Jaipur Indian Restaurant

1800 Broadway Street, #160, Boulder
303-442-0999 • jaipurindianrestaurant.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Paul’s Coffee & Tea

956 W Cherry St #101, Louisville
720-259-1723 • paulscoffeeandtea.com

Gift Certificates, Gifts, Roasted Coffees and Teas

Ras Kassas

802 South Public Road, Lafayette
303-447-2919 • raskassas.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

Colorado Mountain Kava

615 Ken Pratt Blvd., Longmont
720-833-6864 • instagram.com/mountainkava
Sober bar serving Kratom, Kava and other specialties.
Sober environment for parties, gift certificates, sober drinks.

The Sink

1165 13th St., Boulder
303-444-7465 • thesink.com
Gift Certificates, Holiday Parties, Catering

The ones who dared to fight City Hall.

When Boulder denied public access to police body-cam footage, we took it to court. Our fight for transparency is now before the Colorado Supreme Court — because accountability doesn’t stop at the city line.

Through December 31, every gift to Yellow Scene will be matched — dollar for dollar — through the Colorado Media Project’s Matching Grant.Give & Get Democracy this Holiday Season. Your $8 recurring monthly support not only gets you YS delivered to your house, but it’s matched for the entire year, bringing that $8/month to $192. 

Because Independent journalism isn’t just about telling stories. It’s about protecting your right to know, holding power accountable, and keeping democracy in the light. This is #newsCOneeds Becoming a sustaining supporter today for $8 a month! 

The post Locavore Gift Guide: How To Never Shop Corporate Again appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Thrifting: The environmentally-conscious choice

The negative impact of fashion consumption and mass-produced goods from stores like SHEIN, Zara, and H&M can’t be overstated. The most recent data from the Environmental Protection Agency reports that 11.3 million tons of textile waste — mainly discarded clothing — ended up in landfills in 2018.

Crucially, buying goods from fast fashion retailers is supporting unethical labor. The fast fashion industry employs approximately 75 million workers worldwide, according to FashionUnited. Less than 2% of these workers earn a living wage, as reported by The Lowest Wage Challenge.

“Thrifting cuts down on current consumption and fast fashion, which is a growing problem — the statistics are mind-blowing,” said Victoria Sofias, owner of Heck Yes Vintage. “If I can go to the thrift store a few times a week and bring home two big bags full of stuff, that’s contributing significantly to that problem.”

Courtesy: Victoria Sofias

Recognizing the value of thrift shopping over supporting Big Box retailers by default can lead to a mindset shift, thrifting enthusiast Sarah Howlett said. Rather than viewing thrifting as an alternative, it’s a go-to for her and many other shoppers in the area.

“[Thrifting] has become something I see more as a first option than a last option,” Howlett said. “If you do it enough, your brain starts to shift, and you start thinking, ‘Oh, I need a new colander, I’ll just go to the Tru Hospice Thrift Shop and see if I can find one there.’”

Over the past several years, thrift shopping has experienced a surge in popularity, emerging as a sustainable and prudent choice for consumers. According to OfferUp’s 2022 Recommerce Report, 82% (272 million) of Americans now buy or sell secondhand items. The report also predicts that the secondhand market will grow five times faster than the overall retail market by 2027.

Shoppers in the Boulder County and North Metro region are no exception to the growing thrifting trend, with thrift shopping appealing to locals in the area for a variety of reasons — environmental, ethical, and financial.

“I try to devote my time to [thrifting] because the prices are so much lower, especially with things people tend to overbuy, like clothes. It’s become a passion of mine to keep them out of a landfill and give them a second, third, even fourth life,” Howlett said. “It’s important for me to teach these values to my kids and, hopefully, influence others to see how many perfectly good items are already out there.”

Courtesy: Sarah Howlett

Supporting charities and those in need

Many of Boulder and the North Metro region’s best thrifting spots have the added appeal of supporting worthy causes. HOPE’s Storehouse in Longmont is a perfect example.

Owned by HELP International, HOPE’s Storehouse is a non-profit thrift store with everything you could want or need — clothes, antiques, kitchenware, furniture, toys. Proceeds from the store fund two schools in Uganda as well as provide aid for countries like Haiti and Ukraine.

HOPE’s Storehouse does plenty to help the local community as well. The thrift store has a no-questions-asked food pantry full of essentials for anyone in need.

“We wake up every day and know we’re going to help someone or make them smile, whether it’s getting them a pair of shoes for their feet or a free cup of coffee at the thrift store,” said CeCe Winbigler, manager at HOPE’s Storehouse. “That’s just what we’re out to do — we’re out to spread love.”

Winbigler said the thrift store has experienced a rise in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic, showing no signs of slowing down. Her clientele includes people from virtually every walk of life whose appreciation of thrift stores brings them together.

“I have people who resell stuff, single moms shopping for their kids, people with no money at all who need shoes on their feet, people from women’s shelters who are trying to get out of a tough situation, and I have people who come from Windsor wearing diamonds bigger than my head — it’s so across the board,” Winbigler said. “I think everybody just loves a good deal.”

Courtesy: CeCe Winbigler

Celebrating the timeless appeal of vintage

Sofias said she’s noticed a resurgence of vintage fashion, furniture, and decor, especially from eras like the 1960s, 1970s, and 1990s. Some of her favorite thrifted finds are a pair of wide-leg, mod-print bellbottoms from the 1960s and a vintage magenta silk jumpsuit.

“A lot of what’s popular right now are things that were really trendy in the past,” Sofias said.

Much of the appeal of thrifted vintage clothing is their craftsmanship and durability. The quality of vintage goods is especially alluring to younger generations who grew up during the rise of fast fashion, Sofias said.

“I love seeing how garments were constructed, not only in terms of their style but in the quality of the materials that were used — 60 and even 20 years ago, everything was made to last versus now if you buy something trendy, you have to replace it within a year,” Sofias said. “It’s really cool to find those staple closet pieces someone had 30 years ago that still have another 30 years of life in it.”

Furniture and decor were created with more artistry and care in generations past, compared to items from big-box retailers today, said Jeannine Erlhoff, owner of Noble Treasures Antiques in Lafayette.

“People studied furniture making back in the day, and they made things to last, not to fall apart,” Erlhoff said. “They put much more time and skill into making things.”

Courtesy: CeCe Winbigler

Adding a touch of uniqueness

Something many thrifters cherish is the ability to wear garments that feel unique and special, Sofias said.

“I think a big part of it is being able to say, ‘Oh, thanks for the compliment, it’s vintage!’” Sofias said. “No one else can just go out and get the exact same thing.”

Vintage and thrifted goods enhance individuality not just in fashion but in home decor as well, Howlett said. She sources plenty of home decor and furniture both for herself and her friends from thrift stores all over Boulder.

“When you incorporate secondhand and vintage stuff, your home ends up looking unique and not like a page from a catalog,” Howlett said. “They make an interior space look eclectic, intentional, and more interesting.”

People looking to renovate or remodel should consider browsing places like Resource Central in Boulder before purchasing expensive materials, Howlett said.

“Sometimes they’ll have entire kitchen cabinet sets, coffee tables, electrical components, even pieces of tile they resell for very cheap, diverted from landfills,” Howlett said.

Courtesy: Sarah Howlett

Exploring new interests

Thrift shopping serves as a gateway to affordable exploration of different brands and hobbies, Winbigler said.

“When you visit a thrift store, you can usually find brands that you wouldn’t normally be able to afford, which is a huge plus,” Winbigler said.

Secondhand art supply stores like Art Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder encourage creativity and personal growth by lowering the barrier to trying new things, said executive director Megan Moriarty.

The store is full of donated creative materials like paints and paint brushes, fabric and sewing machines, woodworking tools, and crayons and markers for kids. The wide range of inventory at low price points make it easy for someone to start a new art project or hobby, Moriarty said.

“There are some hobbies that are super expensive to try, like weaving,” Moriarty said. “We get looms and yarn all the time that are completely affordable, so folks can get started and try it out. Before making a huge purchase or investing in really expensive supplies, you can stick your toe in and see if it’s the right fit.”

Courtesy: Megan Moriarty

Thrifting in Boulder

There are a few reasons why Boulder is one of the best places to thrift in Colorado, Howlett said. The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, meaning more people donate and buy thrifted items. Furthermore, many people in Boulder have the resources to purchase high-quality items and donate them later on, which contributes to the excellent inventory in many shops all over town.

“A lot of people here spend their money on nice items — like clothes and gear from Patagonia — that can last and last and last and be repaired and reused,” Howlett said. “When those nice, high-quality items trickle down into secondhand shops, there’s still tons of life left in them.”

Some of Howlett’s favorite shops to frequent in Boulder are Pig + Pearl Secondhand, Tru Hospice Thrift Shop, Salvation Army, Rags Consignments, and Greenwood Wildlife Thrift Shop and Consignment Gallery. She’s also an advocate for Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and estate sales.

Courtesy: Megan Moriarty

Getting into thrifting

For those new to the thrifting game, Sofias recommends prioritizing closet staples.

“Start with basics — there’s such a good amount of high-quality, secondhand, and vintage pieces like simple black cardigans, jeans, and t-shirts that were made to last,” Sofias said. “Start simple, then find those fun statement pieces that really jump out to you on the rack.”

Thrift shopping — especially at stores with massive inventory — can be intimidating. Howlett suggests maintaining an open mind throughout the hunt.

“You can take a list of things you’re looking for or just go with an open, creative mind,” Howlett said. “Look on the lower shelves, behind rows of things like picture frames — you never know what you might find by going a little bit deeper.”

Howlett urges thrifters not to be discouraged if an item found at a thrift store isn’t in mint condition. Many items Howlett has thrifted — bikes, toys for her kids, winter coats — just need a little TLC before they’re good to go.

“I love seeing the potential in things that just need a stitch, a stain removed, or a scrub down. Things don’t need to be discarded just because they’re not perfect.”

The post Good as New: Embracing Boulder’s Thrifting Culture appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

(All photos by Zoe Jennings unless stated otherwise.)

’Tis the season for frantically buying your loved ones Amazon gifts. But what if your hard-earned money went back into the community and not toward a wealthy CEO’s second yacht? We’ve curated a shopping guide for the perfect holiday gifts from our favorite local brands. Our guide features gift ideas found on the shelves of locally owned shops in Boulder County or on the websites of local businesses. We hope you enjoy what the many makers of Colorado have to offer, but the real joy will be in purchasing a gift that you know will positively impact the community around you. From sustainability to LGBTQIA+ rights to bringing joy, each business in our guide has their own noble reasons for putting their craft out into the community. Each store owner had a wonderful story to share and was proud to point out their locally sourced merchandise.

Angie of Angie Star Jewelry poses in her Pearl Street store next to her jewelry.

Cozmo the bird hangs out in Angie Star Jewelry.

Angie Star Jewelry was just one of many stops I made to local stores, with Cozmo the bird, Penny the dog, and Angie the human greeting me as I walked in. Angie Star Jewelry, nestled within the many shops on Pearl Street in Boulder, sells silver handmade jewelry made with ethically sourced materials. Both sturdy and beautiful, the jewelry is displayed alongside delightful decorations like sand dollars, sea shells, and wonderful brass display vessels. Angie has a welcoming energy and told me that she’s lucky that she and her mom, a retired nurse, are so close. Together they run the Pearl Street store and an additional store in Fort Collins. Angie is glad that her mom can work with her and slow down from her busy days as a nurse.

Housegoods

Mugs from Longs Peak Ceramics, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Made by hand in Longmont, these unique mugs and bowls from Longs Peak Ceramics are microwave and dishwasher safe. Longs Peak Ceramics is honest about the fact that their pieces are not flawless but are all one of a kind and not mass produced.

Grizzly Bear Mercantile cozy blanket. Photo courtesy of Lynn Starkman.

Grizzly Bear Mercantile adult and baby blankets can take tough love and are made with soft, minky fabric and attention to detail. Blankets come in various sizes, with premade options.

A bird feeder from Beyond Nature Co. Photo courtesy of Kayla Eggemeyer.

Personal Care Products

Rooted with Ali 3-in-1 spray, dry shampoo, magnesium butter, magnesium spray, sugar scrubs, lotion bars, and lip balms sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Rooted with Ali is a women-owned business in Loveland creating conscious skincare products. Products are made with natural, organic, and wildcrafted ingredients and packaged sustainably. These products are safe for those with skin conditions, with therapeutic-grade essential oils and scents derived from wildcrafted herbs.

Bars of soap from Muddy Mint Soap Co., sold at Maker General in Longmont.

Soaps from Muddy Mint are handmade in Longmont using palm oil-free, all-natural ingredients.

Colorado Aromatics soap, lip balm, and face & body mist, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

Derived from ingredients grown on a Longmont farm, Colorado Aromatics skincare products are made to serve the skincare needs of people living in the Colorado climate. With antioxidant-rich herbs, these products help heal the damaging effects from the sun.

Bee-Och Organics body oil, body butter, sugar scrub, sun sticks, and deodorant, sold at Local Goods Colorado.

Headquartered in Fort Lupton, Bee-Och Organics is a woman-owned business specializing in small batch-crafted, cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan products. There are zero-waste and refillable options for products at their main store.

Yarrow Field and Farm bars of soap, sold at Local Goods Colorado.

Yarrow Field and Farm encourages a soft lifestyle with small batch, natural, botanical skincare products, crafts, and vintage finds.

Magic Fairy Candles bath bombs. Photo taken at Canova Home in Boulder.

With their main store in Longmont, Magic Fairy Candles has a fun, witchy vibe. Selling all-natural soy candles and body products, they sell small batch goods crafted with the intention of unifying love for the journey of every human experience.

Candles

Candelaria candles at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

These handmade candles are crafted in the Santa Fe District of Denver. Candelaria’s owner has worked in the candle industry for 15 years and shares that knowledge through educational experiences offered at their store.

Fleetwood Candle Co. candles at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Fleetwood Candle Co. of Denver is a relatively new business started by a former special education teacher who used art as an outlet when teaching went remote during the pandemic. The candles are bright, fun, and inspired by nature.

Spruced Hen candles, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Spruced Hen Candle Co. draws inspiration from the owner’s Longmont farm. The hand-poured candles and melts are 100 percent soy wax, additive-free, phthalate-free fragrances, and have cotton wicks.

Light Provisions candles, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Inspired by a deep appreciation of cocktails and earthy scents, Light Provisions specializes in artisanal candles to set a peaceful tone in your house. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, the candles are hand poured into reusable vessels.

Clothing

Moore shirts, sweat shirts, and bags, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Inspired by the Colorado landscape, Moore is a family-owned business selling high-quality clothing with hand-drawn designs.

Topo Designs beanies, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Topo Designs began in a Fort Collins basement and has grown into a well-known company creating well-made gear for outdoor adventures.

Food and Drinks

Backyard Bev Co cocktail syrups, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods.

Backyard Bev Co offers a natural, handcrafted option for your cocktails. With Colorado-sourced, full-spectrum CBD, this mixer may actually help you feel refreshed the next day.

Conscious Coffees whole coffee beans, sold at Vintrey Honest Goods.

Based in Boulder, Conscious Coffees lives up to its name by paying above fair trade prices to support farmer cooperatives.

Fatworks premium cooking oil, ghee clarified butter, and chicken fat organic cooking oil, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Out of Longmont, Fatworks is tackling the narrative that fat is bad for you. Made from pasture-raised, non-GMO animals without antibiotics or hormones, Fatworks’ cooking fats are designed to help create a healthy, balanced diet.

Yummy Lotus blackberry serrano lime jam, strawberry grapefruit jam, kiwi poblano jam, strawberry ghost pepper jam, mango habanero jam, and blueberry reaper jam, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Headquartered in Denver, Yummy Lotus offers locally crafted vegan and gluten-free jams made with fresh ingredients in small batches.

Green Belly Foods yellow, red, and green hot sauces, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Inspired by his mom’s traditional Guatemalan hot sauces, Green Belly Foods’ Juan Ignacio Stewart went from selling hot sauces from a tent at the local market to a larger-scale operation.

Whole bean coffees from Traction Coffee Roasters, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

The founders of Traction Coffee Roasters thought up the idea for their coffee roasting company after a mountain bike ride. Their main goal is to make real, authentic coffee.

Venus Spice Co. za’atar premium spice blend, hawaij warming spice blend, shawarma seasoning and rub, sold by Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Noga, the name of the planet Venus in Hebrew, and partner, Kyle, created Venus Spice Co., a Boulder-based spice company specializing in the Middle Eastern flavors of Noga’s family’s recipes and traditions.

Bee Grateful Farm salted honey caramels and lavender honey caramels, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Bee Grateful Farm caramels are handcrafted at a natural vegetable farm in Steamboat Springs.

Stores selling local goods

Vintrey Honest Goods in Lafayette.

Vintrey Honest Goods is inspired by travel and socially conscious consumerism. Through strategic partnership, they aim to abolish human trafficking and uplift oppressed people. The store sells consciously curated household, fashion, and jewelry options. They sell several Colorado brands.

Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Owned by best friends, Wolf & Wren Press combines the traditional art of letterpressing to meet your modern design and printing needs. A portion of their profits goes toward supporting organizations that are creating positive change for the environment.

Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Shop over 100 Colorado brands at Bricks Local Gift Shop for gifts, souvenirs, food, home goods, and more.

Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Local Goods Colorado sells all local merchandise and aims to build relationships with all makers while also promoting community with customers.

Canova Home in Boulder.

Working with local artists and international fair trade groups to bring unique pieces, Canova Home brings unique home, art, jewelry, and more to Pearl Street.

Lula Faye Fiber in Boulder.

Fighting against the fast-moving cycle of fast fashion, Lula Faye Fiber offers handmade textiles that makers can use and then will be returned back to the earth. The store sells locally produced textiles.

Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Created in 1993, Two Hands Paperie is a family-owned business selling journals, paper, notebooks, books, cards, art supplies, decorations, and more. The store makes products in house and sells local brands.

Maker General in Longmont.

Maker General is intended to be a “general store” for creatives and makers who work with textiles and fibers. They sell gifts and supplies and offer a variety of maker workshops and classes meant to encourage the creative spirit in the community.

Art

Daniele Gold of Mountainside Acrylics holding one of her psychedelic watercolor paintings. Photo courtesy of Daniele Gold.

Daniele Gold of Denver-based Mountainside Acrylics is an acrylic and graphic artist specializing in feminine, psychedelic, and traveling-inspired art. Selling prints, paintings, and custom designs, each piece combines abstract concepts with the beauty of nature.

Uptripping art, sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Located in Winter Park, Uptripping reflects the global and adventurous lifestyle of its creators.

Chalkboard painting by Grey Grimm, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Specializing in oil, charcoal, watercolor chalkboard design, digital illustration, and murals, Grey Grimm sells art and is available for commissions.

Stickers and prints from Geranium Studio Shop, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

Created by two friends hoping to bring joy to others, Geranium Studio Shop sells watercolor art inspired by Colorado landscapes.

Engraved decorative sign by Vicki Riedel, who has three businesses: Green Hen Designs, Rock N Creations, and Riedel Enterprises. Photo courtesy of Vicki Riedel.

Green Hen Designs, Rock-N-Creations, and Riedel Enterprises, operating out of Erie, provide engraving needs for both commercial and personal purposes.

Nisha Fine Art painting. Photo courtesy of Nisha Ghela.

Landscape paintings, both small and large, along with little printed notecards from Nisha Fine Art turn Colorado’s natural beauty into art, perfect for gift giving.

Bird house made by Peter Buwalda of Buwalda Fine Art Studio. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Buwalda.

Art Supplies

Art supplies sold at the Art Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder.

The Art Parts Creative Reuse Center in Boulder was founded to help reduce waste. Art Parts has helped keep over 188,000 pounds of creative materials out of landfills. With any art supplies you might need, you can make a local gift at a cheap price without adding more waste to the world.

Paper Cuts Press pencils, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Upcycling and repurposing is the motto at Papercuts Press, which makes fun gifts out of repurposed material.

Coy Ink Studio water coloring and postcards kits, sold at Maker General in Longmont.

Longmont artist Amanda Maldonado of Coy Ink Studio is not only passionate about community and accessibility to art but sells handcrafted pen, ink, and watercolor art.

Wools from High Country Wool, sold at Lula Faye Fiber in Boulder.

Dedicated to connecting people to the land, High Country Wool dyes and handles the wool in a way that makes the wool light, airy, and full of life.

Nanci Hill Feeney Roll-up Caddy, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Nanci Hill Feeney’s roll-up caddies hold pencils, pens, and brushes in fun roll-up containers. For online orders, email nancihillfeeney@gmail.com. Nanci doesn’t have a dedicated website, but can receive order requests through email.

Handmade paper sold and made at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Two Hands Paperie makes paper from recycled t-shirts for your stationery needs.

Cards and Stickers

Sweet & Snarky Greetings cards, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Want a sweet card, a snarky card, or maybe both? Longmont-based, eco-friendly greeting card company has you covered. Sweet & Snarky Greetings creates the fun content and art on their cards.

New parents and gender confirmation cards from Ladyfingers Letterpress, sold at Maker General on Longmont.

Lady Fingers Letterpress is a queer, trans-owned and operated business selling stationery, cards, and gifts out of Colorado Springs. Award winning, Lady Fingers uses their platform to support and create cards promoting women’s, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and immigrant rights.

Customizable cards at Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Wolf & Wren Press designs holiday cards in house at their Longmont shop.

Stickers made and sold by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Shop the many fun and colorful stickers made by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont. The stickers are designed in the shop.

Holiday cards made and sold by Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Holiday cards sold and made at Wolf & Wren Press in Longmont.

Decorations

arubymoon wood block print prayer flags, sold at Two Hands Paperie in Boulder.

Inspired by Tibetan prayer flags, arubymoon makes gratitude and grief flags, cards, and prints with the intention to inspire people to connect, create, and honor life.

Decorative banners, made and sold at Two Hands Paperie.

Made from upcycled saris, tassel banners sold and made at Two Hands Paperie can be strung up, worn, and adored.

Plants

Plants sold at Green Pony Houseplants & Vintage in Louisville.

Furniture

Custom-made table and chairs built in Dancing Grains Woodworks in Boulder.

Dancing Grains Woodworks handcrafts custom-made products out of high-quality wood. The store features already made products and slabs of wood that can be chosen for custom pieces.

Vanier Contour chair. Photo courtesy of Blake Vanier.

A locally run startup, Vanier Contour chairs are handbuilt. The floating slat provides a perfectly contouring sitting experience no matter what position.

Jewelry

Fleetwood Candle Co. earrings, sold at Local Goods Colorado in Lafayette.

Born out of the dark times of Covid, Fleetwood Candle Co. makes fun and colorful earrings too.

Turquoise and silver jewelry sold at Angie Star Jewelry in Boulder.

Jewelry at Angie Star Jewelry includes both silver jewelry and beaded jewelry and malas.

Earrings from Ammonite Swirls, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop.

The husband and wife duo of Ammonite Swirls sell their handmade jewelry to pay for rent, car payments, and food for their cats. They run their ecologically friendly business in addition to their jobs working as a musician and conservationist.

Rubarb Jewelry earrings, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Friends Ruth and Barb became friends and quickly started making jewelry together. Rubarb Jewelry handmakes simple but elegant jewelry.

Pets

Winnie Lou the Canine Co. Berry Boost Bones and Carrot Doggie Treat, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Winnie Lou started as a food truck and now brings dog products made from Colorado farms to fur families all over the state. Only real, whole foods are used in their products.

Suzie’s CBD Treats Original, Apple, and Pumpkin Bites, sold at Bricks Local Gift Shop in Longmont.

Does your dog deserve to chill out? Suzie’s CBD Treats offers many yummy products for your animals containing CBD grown on their Fort Collins farm.

Local Shops Online

Holiday Markets & Fundraisers

Memberships to Makerspaces

The artists and makers in your life may appreciate memberships to local makerspaces as gifts.

Tools and warehouse space are available to members of The Gizmo Dojo makerspace in Northglenn.

The Gizmo Dojo: A makerspace located in Northglenn. Memberships start at hobbyist level at $50 a month for those looking to do personal projects enthusiast level at $100 for those who will be more involved at the dojo, and small business level for $250 for those wanting to sell products out of the dojo. All levels include 24/7 access to the building.

TinkerMill warehouse for makers is open 24/7 to members.

TinkerMill: Located in Longmont, members get full access to the workshop space, discounted classes, 24/7 access, voting rights, and reservations. Memberships available for $30 dollars a month for people with limited income, $60 for individuals, $90 for a bundle good for five people, and $120 for a corporate bundle of five employees.

Small businesses donate 250 percent more than large business counterparts to community causes. Over $9.3 billion would be returned to our economy if every U.S. family spent just $10 a month at a local business. Maybe this year our holiday season can mean more than convenience. Purchases from local businesses can pay for the lives of those around you and go toward causes that make our community better.

The post Community over CEOs: Local Retail Guide 2022 appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.

Antoine de Saint-Exupery wrote: “Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away.” 

Distilling the act of creation into its most fundamental elements is an interest of both artists featured in the exhibit “Line & Weight.” By focusing exclusively on their respective processes and media, we are rewarded as viewers with works that draw us into their meditative results.

Courtney Giblin writes about her work that it “explores how everything is made of the same energetic matter. Further, how all interactions are simply exchanges of said energy. The work asks how outside factors shape our energetic experiences, how our energetic experiences shape who we are as people, and how we shape the world around us.” The result is a series of compositions balancing form with gesture: black holes that contain multitudes and an intuitive, pointed use of color.

Clark Valentine explores the phenomenological experience of mark making. He writes: “In my drawings, each mark becomes a unique repetition of the mark before it. Over time, the disruptions of the hand change the marks and the drawing takes itself in new directions. These variations of the marks become key compositional features. The process of drawing then becomes a balance between an active meditation of the mind and a passive response of the hand. In the making process, I seek to find moments of stillness where it feels as though my hand is moving on its own, responding to the needs of the drawing.”

Animal cruelty and neglect takes many forms, from animals near extinction, to rats just looking for respect.  Teen artists in the Studio Project Program respond to the issue through printmaking, and other art forms.

Studio Project is a program that provides purposeful engagement for high school aged youth. This program is targeted to serve youth with opportunities to create dialogue about art, art making, and social issues as they affect young people. Participants create art with local artists, partner with nonprofits active in the local community, and plan fun and engaging events to share the artwork they created during the program. Studio Project is an in-depth and meaningful experience for each of the teen participants, and the program cultivates the next generation of artists and art appreciators, some of whom go on to study at institutions such as the Pratt Institute, the Art Institute of Chicago, and more.

Studio Project is generously supported by the Georgie Fund, Anita Sayed, Luff Family Foundation, Studio B Architects, FirstBank, Catherine Allegra & James Tanner, Laurie & Reid Klion, Karen & Jeffrey Moore, Shears Giving Fund, Chris & Thomas Stanko, and Art Parts Creative Reuse Center.

The post New Exhibits at the Firehouse in May and a New Mural appeared first on Yellow Scene Magazine.