There’s nothing like Memphis in May, the time for warmer weather, sunnier days, festivals and farmers’ markets. It’s the perfect season to hit the pavement and shop local, and nothing says “I love Memphis” like supporting Memphis’ local makers. And you’re in luck, because the Memphis makers’ scene is thriving. From art, pottery and food, to clothing, skin care and jewelry, there is surely an artisan FIND perfect for you or your loved one! Here’s our roundup of 14 FINDS from Memphis makers!
ART
Abstract exploration
This original ink, acrylic and latex painting on 8.5-by-11.5-inch watercolor paper is part of the third collection in EBW Artwork artist Beth Winterburn’s series entitled How You to Me, which explores relationships visually and psychologically with colorful, weighted lines and shapes. The piece can be found for $105 at ebw-artwork.com.
Learning the ABCs
The “Floral ABCs” is local artist Dorothy Collier’s bestseller. The 16-by-25-inch giclee on canvas is relaxing with its subdued, neutral colors, perfect for a child’s nursery. Find it for $175 at Bingham and Broad alongside her newest original shadowbox series.
Chloe York inaugural collection
With her brilliant, signature approach to abstract painting, Chloe York is launching her first ever spring/summer collection. The stunning collection will launch on Friday, May 19 and last through August 1, 2017, and features limited-edition prints, wallpaper, fabric and original paintings. Find your must-have masterpiece, ranging from $15 to $750, at chloe-york.com.
Mounted print
“Never Had Everything, but Always Had Something” is a beautiful, gold-and-black depiction of an evening river scene. It is an archival print mounted on a wood plaque and coated with a protective varnish. This print can be found for $30 at artist Michelle Duckworth’s Etsy shop.
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Invitations and stationery
These invitations and stationery by Original Ink feature original watercolor artwork by Kathryn Miller. Each piece is elegant, unique and perfect for your special event or handwritten note. Find Original Ink products, ranging in price depending upon design, at The Stovall Collection.
POTTERY
“Crazy Daisy” mugs
Specializing in functional pieces for the home and garden, potter Mary Bartholomew crafted this line of “Crazy Daisy” 12-ounce stoneware mugs to be versatile yet beautiful with their vibrant colors and raised daisies. Bartholomew regularly sells her work at various Memphis area arts and crafts shows. Find these microwave-safe “Crazy Daisy” mugs for $26 each at marybpottery.com.
Customizable stoneware cups
These handmade utilitarian stoneware pieces are food-safe, dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe, making them perfect for everyday use. These cups come in two sizes, and the glaze color and stamps are completely customizable. They can be found for $20 to $25 each at Erica Bodine’s booth at the Memphis Farmers’ Market.
FOOD
Guilt-free decadence
Who doesn’t need a rich, decadent chocolate pick-me-up? If you’re walking the health line, these avocado brownies fit the bill since they’re gluten-free, grain-free, refined-sugar-free, dairy-free, soy-free and only 52 calories per brownie. Avocados are a super fruit boasting more potassium than bananas, and paired with dark chocolate, these brownies provide plenty of antioxidants that are sure to bring a smile to your face. They can be found for $3 each at Guilt Free Pastries.
Eye-catching, palate-pleasing chocolates
Chocolatier Phillip Ashley’s spring/summer 2017 collection is filled with intricately painted pinks, reds and greens in unique, palate-surprising flavors such as Crown & Coke and Sriracha Caramel Lime Salt. This collection is the perfect combination of culinary simplicity and exotic artistry. Find this delicious collection of luxury chocolates for $49 at Phillip Ashley Chocolates.
JEWELRY
Avocado studs
If you can put avocado on your toast, why not wear the superfruit in your ears? Sculpted from polymer clay and made with surgical steel posts by sculptor of tiny food items “Funlola Coker,” these earrings are safe for those with skin sensitivities, and they are a guaranteed conversation starter. They can be found for $22 at Five in One Social Club or on Funlola Coker’s Etsy shop.
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Essential necklace
“Radiance” is an essential oil diffuser necklace that radiates a sky blue 24-petal flower over a soft, ivory background and is accented by a hand-knotted Greek leather cord. This necklace-and-essential-oil-diffuser-in-one can be found for $25 to $28 at Delta Groove Yoga, Champalou Spa, Southern Whimsy or on Nautilus Pottery’s Etsy shop.
Elegant earrings
These long, beaded earrings are handmade by Valerie Shaver. The soft blue beads paired with the silver design are a perfect spring and summer staple. These earrings can be found for $7 on Valerie Shaver’s Etsy shop.
SUNDRY ITEMS
Spring serum
This Skin Elixir Firming Radiance Concentrate is perfect for the spring and summer seasons. Containing baobab oil, hibiscus, evening primrose oil and AHA, this serum is rich in omega-3, omega-6, sterols, antioxidants and vitamins A, E, D, F and C. It’s the perfect product to help soothe, tighten and reduce inflammation on the skin with the added bonus that it won’t clog pores. This serum can be found for $22 at Naturelle Skin Care.
Leggings for every occasion
“The Love Frequency” leggings are a vibrant, colorful addition to any wardrobe. They are designed in Memphis by Sarah Dalesandro from her original watercolor paintings, then produced in Canada, sweatshop-free. These leggings fit all body types with their ultra-stretch fabric, compression fit and high waistline. They can be found for $55 on Sarah Dalesandro’s Etsy shop.
Now grab your wallet, and support these fabulous Memphis makers!
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