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Art Star
Categories: Shopping Arts & Crafts Shopping Fashion Women's Clothing Shopping Jewelry Arts & Crafts, Women's Clothing, Jewelry [Edit]
623 N 2nd StPhiladelphia, PA 19123
Neighborhoods: Spring Garden, Northern Liberties
(215) 238-1557
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 11 am - 7 pm
Sun 12 pm - 6 pm
- Price Range:
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$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Expert watch and jewelry repair. We sell diamonds gold and custom made items pre owned Rolex, Breitling, Panerai, Omega, Cartier and more. We… read more »
32 reviews for Art Star
Review Highlights
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"...but you can sleep easy know you're supporting local artists." In 4 reviews -
"And their handmade goods are amazing." In 10 reviews -
"Great GREAT place for shopping for fun or unique gift." In 3 reviews
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32 reviews in English
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Review from Donna H.
4/19/2012
I loved everything about this store/gallery!! I was reintroduced to Kurt Halsey! Haven't seen his stuff for a long time. Also, totally in love with "In which the lotus bloom captures everyone's attention" by Noferin. Look it up. Adorbs!!!!
Cutesy, art, jewelry, and apparel! They recently revamped their online store and it isn't too shabby either. We came by because Toast's sister wanted to check it out. Prices aren't too bad for prints and they have a huge sale section. Some stuff is pricier.. The gallery/store is vibrant and spacious, and one of the jewelry makers was hanging out at the store eating lunch. Pretty awesome!
Now to get me that Noferin print... i less than 3 it!!!!!!! -
Review from Natalee F.
Philadelphia, PA
2/22/2012 1 photo
I love Kurt Halsey's art, and Art Star always carries his work. The rest of their stuff is cute too. I've bought items here a few times, but most of the time, I just stop in to look and walk around to become inspired. Some of their things can be a bit pricey but they oftentimes have sales and deals (such as Groupon) so if you can wait, it won't be so much.
The store is spacious yet cozy and the staff is nice and friendly. Sometimes they have first Friday art opens with food and drinks. Also they have a craft fair at least once per year on Penn's Landing.
If you are looking for something unique and artsy - anything from clothes, jewelry, cards, or housewares - this is the place to go. -
Review from EricaLynn J.
Oaklyn, NJ
1/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
I immediately felt right at home when I walked into Art Star. Even though it was my first time there, I was greeted as if I was a member of a close-knit family. That's a wonderful feeling and such a rarity these days, even from independent boutiques, galleries, and the like.
While I did not purchase anything, I was intrigued by the selection, and what a broad spectrum of goods were available. I walked away with quite a large shopping list in my head for the future (as in, this is a place worth my putting some money aside to come back and spend spend spend). On the top of that list would definitely have to be some prints. Talk about cute and funky! I always admire the prints my friend has in her house, and I found them all right there in Art Star. Next on the list would have to be some knitted items (an owl hat caught my eye). I know where I am going to purchase many gifts for friends and family now. Art Star has made my life so much easier. Kudos to Art Star for being unique but affordable, cute but not annoyingly so. Hip but not hipster. Love. -
Review from C P.
Cherry Hill, NJ
4/21/2012
This is one of my top choices for shopping for gifts. Accessories from Red Prairie Press, a big variety of products from local artists, and (really) friendly service.
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Review from Catherine L.
Philadelphia, PA
11/18/2011
Art Star is one of the primary outfits responsible for re-invigorating the Philadelphia homemade artisan goods scene. They've brought up their annual Spring Bazaars to Penn's Landing bringing in all sorts of talents both local and nationwide and they are invested in this city and the neighborhood in which they started (first at Liberties Walk, and now on 2nd near Green in that lovely open white space that also functions as a gallery in the back). Art Star is very much Etsy come alive, a Philly-centric Etsy mortar and brick store.
Perfect destination for unique and memorable gifts, and it's my number one destination for baby gifts. They carry the cutest knit wear and silk screened shirts and onesies, all of which I think are always more thoughtful and unique compared to what you could ever get at Babies R Us. That being said, the price tag here is a bit heftier than what you would find at your run of the mill big box stores, but I'm often willing to throw down a few extra dollars for something special than something generic.
Lovely selection of handmade jewelry, stationery, clothing, pottery and adorable knick-knacks, you really can't go wrong with anything purchased from here, and you can be certain that the gift-ee won't have anything already like it. They also carry unique seasonal stuff for the holidays too which is always fun.
Art Star also supports different local artists almost every month if not every other month, and features their art for purchase. I've gotten some great affordable pieces here that now hang on my walls at home and make me happy.
The ladies at Art Star are also super nice, informed, and they even keep a frequent customer card on file for your purchases - talk about incentives! Worth the visit, even just to browse! Birthday and holiday unique gift options abound!Listed in: Northern Liberties Livin', Gifting
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Review from Dana B.
2/27/2012
A great spot for local artists to showcase and sell their wares! I stopped in while getting the lay of the land in NoLibs since it had been quite some time since I was last able to explore the neighborhood. After I wandered over to the sale table in the back of the store, a drawstring bag imprinted with an apple and two change purses in different sizes adorned with balloon dogs caught my eye, but I ended up walking out with a copy of Keri Smith's "Non-Planner Datebook" and I was quite satisfied with my purchase. Will definitely make it a point to stop in again on my next journey through Northern Liberties!
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Review from Vinny P.
2/20/2011
I was never a customer of Art Star. I want to let you know that before you read any further.
I was doing research when I entered. I knew my ambition was in the artistic realm and I wanted to survey people who work in this space and bounce ideas off them to determine the practicality of my idea. This was the resource that I was seeking.
The lovely girl at the counter listened to my haywire idea and was able to point me to the right place to get it accomplished. Any place with employees that take the time to listen and answer questions to someone with a design concept shows that they are there because they care, not for their bottom line.
The space is a good size with all kinds of very quirky but stylish pieces. I'm not much of a decorator but I know that I will come back here. It might be the spot to find that one of a kind piece.
At the very least, the are personable and will listen to you. That's enough for a visit in my book. -
Review from Katherine R.
Philadelphia, PA
12/21/2010
While searching on Yelp for a place to get a gift for my mom for Christmas, I ran across Art Star (although it wasn't hard to miss considering the stellar reviews).
I ventured there last Friday morning and was taken aback by how adorable this place is. Their selection is eclectic and fun, yet still very simple, which is exactly what I look for when buying things for decorating. I was having a hard time remembering I was there for my mom, not for me.
Eventually I ended up purchasing a vase by Robert Siegel and Stephanie Kao that had this amazing "lace" detailing at the top. Megan, one of the owners was so helpful and had a card for the piece to put with the gift. Considering I always get carried away with gift giving, I also purchased a bird ornament from Hoosier Magnolia, which is based in Boston for my boyfriend's mom.
I was so pleased to find such wonderful gifts that just feel special. -
Review from Kurt I.
1/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
I really liked the idea of this store more than the store itself. It had a nice collection of local wares, art and clothing. Most of it fell on the cutesy side of art. Some if it I could stand but it became almost overkill. I will be back when I need a wedding gift.
Shop local! -
Review from Kate C.
Westtown, PA
6/29/2008
I am not lying when I say that Art Star is my favorite shopping destination in Philadelphia. I seriously can't go in there without walking out with at least one item...bad for my wallet, but good for Art Star (yesterday, it was a handmade mug imprinted with the words "I love you more than zombies love brains." It's an anniversary gift for my husband. Don't tell him, I want it to be a surprise!)
For those not familiar with the store, it sells handmade indie goods made by artists from Philadelphia and all over the country -- necklaces, baby clothing, wallets, stationery, shadow puppets, keyrings, skirts, clutches, cufflinks, tea towels, rubber stamps, stuffed toys, embroidery kits, and much much more. If you have ever poked around on http://etsy.com and thought "I wish I could try that necklace on so I could see how it really looks on me," then Art Star is your place. The owners have great taste and they frequently add new artists to their roster. In addition, they have a gallery space with rotating exhibitions, so you can go and check out some art while you're debating about whether you really need that cute t-shirt with the octopus on it (psst...you should get it! you'll get lots of compliments!)
Art Star used to be located on Liberties Walk, which was a good enough space but very cramped. A few months ago, they moved south on Second Street into a fantastic new space near Spring Garden. The new store is bright, high-ceilinged and airy, and allows for an expanded exhibition area. I love it and the owners do too.
I should add that Art Star is the organizer of the fabled Art Star Craft Bazaar, which runs for one weekend each May. It's an open air craft extravaganza, not to be missed. I do my summer gift shopping at the craft bazaar and my christmas shopping at the store. -
Review from Meg C.
Philadelphia, PA
12/10/2008
Cuuuuuute!
Art Star is adorable! I wanted everything, but settled on a card I'm going to frame and pretend is a piece of art. It should be relatively easy to find a gift here for a young adult. Prints are reasonably priced, even the originals are not exorbitantly expensive. From the jewelry to the foodstuffs crafted from felt, everything looks lovingly handmade. Also, they have a wonderful selection of holiday cards and ornaments this time of year. -
Review from Bill M.
8/20/2008 3 Check-ins Here
Now this is indeed a fun Art Star. I didn't go into it too much when it was in Liberties Walk. But since it's moved a few blocks away I'm pretty sure that it has gotten even bigger and has bought in a whole lot more cool stuff.
when I walked in I was instantly welcomed by a cool arts chick. I feel that every good establishment needs to have one (not saying that as an off putting thing, I'm just a fan) So I loved that they had one there. and when I walked around I saw all kinds of cool things. There was a lot more screen printed things than I would have liked to have seen. But The awesome Art Star Crafts Bazaar that they hosted awhile back had me prepared for it. and hot damn where were the original artworks smoking. Let's just say that when I'm rich I may just buy out the store. I definitely recommend going here when you're looking to kill some time, or when you're blooking to buy a unique gift for a friend.Listed in: Born to Shop, Art Galleries, Thrifty Pants Style
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Review from Zoe P.
11/18/2009
Wow. The hype is true - Art Star is fantastic! This boutique/gallery that's in the Northern Liberties is too cute for words, as are all the items inside! They have fun, funky, cool designs for all the items they offer, from jewelry to men's, women's and even baby's clothing, home goods, and of course ART!
They have these adorable donut-plushies that I saw in Kid Robot in NYC and keep wanting to buy just so that I can look at them, smile, squeeze and giggle at their novelty. And I had to restrain myself from buying several of the baby t-shirts with awesome graphics - I don't have a child, and I don't want to freak my bf out. And the ART!!! The gallery they have in back features some great local artists' work, but they also have a ton of prints you can buy in small, more personal sizes. I fell in love with this one artist's series based off of fairy tales and would LOVE to purchase them all! Most of the prints are super affordable too, so you can deck out your home easily with original art!
If only I didn't live so far away!!!! I need to go back SOON! -
Review from Beth M.
6/20/2007
EDIT - June 2008: I just participated in the Art Star Craft Bazaar again, and it was even better this year! Yay!
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I love Art Star! I just participated in their ArtStar Craft Bazaar, and it was an amazing outdoor indie craft extravaganza Yeah!
The store itself is great-- lots of adorable tees and altered clothing, beautiful ceramics, great prints, fun jewelry, and all kinds of other awesome handmade trinkets and things...it made me wish I was Christmas shopping because I found so much great stuff!
If I lived in Philly I'd come here all the time-- the Liberties Walk area where it's located is so cute, and seems very up and coming...the owners definitely picked a great spot for their awesome shop! -
Review from Alyssa M.
Longview, TX
10/19/2010
There's always something I'd like to buy at Art Star. It's a fun place to go with a friend, ooh and ahh, and get at least one thing- there's plenty of little doodads that don't cost much near the registers.
Everything is unique and homemade by various artists. Jewelry, dishes, clothing, purses, wall art, postcards, etc. There's also an art gallery in the back. Too cute! You'll be proud to tell someone, "I got it at Art Star!" -
Review from Kim W.
6/9/2008
You know why I LOVE Art Star so much?
Because my favorite artist, Kurt Halsey, does an expo there almost EVERY year. (His art is there until July 13th, so feel free to swing by and check it out).
They are so friendly and inviting inside. Seriously. Love them. And their handmade goods are amazing. A bit pricey but amazing none the less. -
Review from Susan L.
Chicago, IL
2/12/2007
If you're looking for a weird hand-made piece of art/ wallet/ stuffed animal, Art Star is your place.
Admittedly, maybe I'm not "hip" enough, but I think these pieces are a little off the scale for even the trendiest/cutting edge yuppie who wants to support local artisans.
edit: I've been back a couple more times and they've either toned down the weirdness into kitchy-cool, or I've become more hip. I suspect it's probably a little of both-oh yeah -
Review from liza c.
Philadelphia, PA
3/22/2010
I've been meaning to visit Art Star for some time. I have browsed their website so much that it just seemed strange that I hadn't yet been to the shop/gallery. I enjoyed looking at all of the items and definitely found at least 1400 little toyish plinks that I wanted to buy and leave laying around my house for people to grope and question when they come over. I decided instead that I would just browse on this visit, since I would just have to lug said items via bike sans messenger bag.
At any rate, I am going back. I found several prints that are very reasonably priced that I really want for my house. All in all, I'm pretty impressed with the amount of work that is avaibable and (yay) reasonably priced!
Thank you Art Star for your stuffed animal shrimp and your overzealous use of a Badge-A-Minit. -
Review from Nick F.
Washington, DC
10/31/2009
If I were writing a textbook about small DIY businesses, Art Star would be the basis for the chapter on retail.
I've been coming to Art Star since they first opened up shop a few blocks away from their present location. Erin and Megan have always been passionate about putting great art in the hands of art lovers, whether it's a $10 pin or a $1,000 painting. It feels more like a studio rather than a staid gallery or packed-to-the-rafters craft shop.
The shop itself is great for browsing, with lots of very well arranged arts, crafts and clothing leading up to a well lit gallery in back. Openings and events are always great fun and awesome people-watching.
The staff are also super fun! They set out candy at halloween, hoping that kids would drop in! It's definitely worth a visit, you'll be hard pressed to leave without something quirky and cool. -
Review from Julia N.
Philadelphia, PA
11/24/2009
If you know what's good for you, get off the computer and go immediately to Art Star for your upcoming holiday shopping. Seriously- I dare you to go and NOT buy anything (feel free to contact me if you had the resolve to resist; we're so on).
They have something for everyone in your life (provided your grandma appreciated plush toast and donuts with eyes). Wondering what to buy work acquaintances and family members about whom you feel ambivalent? Graphic pins and fridge magnets all around! Have kids? Turn them into wee hipsters with locally crafted onesies and mobiles.
Be sure to check out Kathleen Lolley's enchanting prints reminiscent of children's book illustrations (a la Where the Wild Things Are) as well as Fernworks intricate jewelry (paintings and/or natural substances encapsulated in resin).
I pretty much redecorated my entire home with charming little prints by Lisa Hurwitz, and my husband love love loves Art Star's original sweatshirts.
It may be pricey, but you can sleep easy know you're supporting local artists. -
Review from Carrie E.
Philadelphia, PA
2/5/2008
Art Star makes me happy. Located on Liberties Walk, it's a beautiful space filled with handmade things that are super unique and full of good energy. This is the perfect place to come if you want to get a gift for someone who appreciates the specialness of a handcrafted item. Lots of cool art, jewelry, clothes and home accessories that are super cool and showcase the work of some amazing local artists. We need more stores like Art Star!!!
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Review from kathleen t.
Bowling Green, KY
1/9/2009
i love that they are helping out the little guy, the handmaker, cool kid sitting at home dreaming up art. those are all wonderful things, right??
now, if only the folks who worked there had a bit less attitude, they'd be perfect. until that day, though, i'll be ordering directly from the artists themselves, or going to omoi. -
Review from Marisa D.
Philadelphia, PA
7/17/2008
Whenever I'm in Northern Liberties, I always make it a point to check out Art Star. Without fail, I get a good laugh or smile out of it and usually walk away with a a wonderful handmade item. This place has a great vibe, friendly staff, unique items - and best of all, by buying something from them, you support the local art scene. Don't miss out on the Art Star Craft Bazaar - it's huge and full of crazy, beautiful, fun arts & crafts. Remember to bring lots of cash because you'll need it!
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Review from Ellen O.
Philadelphia, PA
2/27/2008
This is one fine gallery owned and operated by two lovely ladies! Art Star is a fellow DIY-er's dream because it sells handmade goods by some fabulous artists. Some of the artists are local while others are not. Some are up-and-coming while others are already established. The variety is what makes Art Star a fun place to shop! Also, it's one of my favorite places to shop for jewelry. Check out a gallery opening, too, if you get the chance! They're always a good time --- full of live music, food, drinks, and good people.
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Review from Mike G.
Philadelphia, PA
12/21/2009
Though they probably don't need it, Art Star is a great gallery and shop. The owners are the friendliest and their selection is not found anywhere else. Great GREAT place for shopping for fun or unique gift.
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Review from Joseph R.
Cambridge, MA
5/18/2009
I love this store. I used to go to their Liberties Walk location every single time I needed to buy someone a gift, and I always saw stuff that I made mental notes to come back and buy when I had some money to spend on myself. Moving to a bigger store on 2nd street was great for them, I think the exposure people passing by 2nd & Fairmount is invaluable. They've just got stuff I've never seen anywhere else. A really unique place, you have to check it out.
Listed in: Places you need to go to in…
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Review from cherie c.
6/11/2006
Terrific selection of art and crafty items for the hipster in your life. The prices aren't bad, either. Find a one-of-a-kind wallet, shirt, necklace, or set of dishes for a friend or for yourself. Interesting art on the wall for sale as well.
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Review from Kandy K.
Philadelphia, PA
9/6/2008
I totally love Art Star. Not only are the owners the nicest gals you'll ever meet, they have a great eye for interesting things. Everything in the shop is handmade or produced in small quantities by artists, so it's full of things you won't find anywhere else. The new space is fantastic - much bigger than the space on Liberties Walk. It's a great place for gifts, and I love to know I'm supporting an independent local business who is in turn supporting artists. Yay for Art Star!
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Review from Hollyann S.
Schenectady, NY
9/20/2009
I went here for the first time a couple of days ago and I was very impressed! I loved the shop it was so clean and had so much natural light. Everything was organized and on top of that the staff are incredible nice and helpful. If you ever want to go to a really cool shop offering stuff from smaller artists go here. I think the prices are just fine as well. I see the price range is rated high but really for art work this place is cheap.
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Review from Janet l.
Ellicott City, MD
10/12/2008
art star is such a lovely place! it has great art (the gallery recently showed art by camilla engman, who is one of my favorite artists), a great store full of interesting art and other knicknacks, and friendly staff! five star for art star!
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Review from Nathan D.
Portland, OR
12/23/2008
Art Star single-handedly turned around my friend's opinion of the Northern Liberties. She had an image of the Northern Liberties in her mind of an expanse of dreadful, dead urban decay with no redeeming qualities. Upon stepping off of the el train, though, I encouraged her to walk up 2nd St with me and navigated toward Art Star. She absolutely fell in love with the place which made her want to explore the neighborhood more and she now actually finds the area enjoyable. Strange but true. Anyone who sets foot inside would agree with me that it's not hard to see why someone would be all grins while walking through here. It's impossibly cute and refreshing. From the fluffy 'plush animal' food items (I especially liked the plush steak meat character), screen printed shirts and dresses, artsy plates and bowls, handmade greeting cards, and endless handmade crafts, it is endlessly entertaining to browse. This is a must-see location if you're in the neighborhood.
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Review from v v.
Philadelphia, PA
12/25/2008
I did a good bit of my christmas shopping at this place, some porcelain and baby cloths. Everything seemed kind of expensive, but I guess that's art. There's definitely lots of things with animals, skulls, and things best described as "cute."
