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Artist-Xchange - CLOSED
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Art Galleries Shopping Art Galleries Shopping Jewelry Art Galleries, Jewelry [Edit]
3169 16th St(at Albion St)
San Francisco, CA 94103
Neighborhood: Mission
(415) 864-1490
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
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$$
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
About This Business:
RedStart specializes in sculptural and fluid jewelry for the discerning customer. In addition to producing jewelry lines, RedStart collaborates with… read more »
37 reviews for Artist-Xchange
Review Highlights
37 reviews in English
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Review from Em L.
9/17/2008
Spectacular art! There has always been a stand out artist that makes me say, "Yah, I want that in my house, " or "Yah, I want to MAKE that!" Half the stuff I do. not. like. But that's why you guys shop there too! "Different strokes, bum ba dum, for different folks. " It is unpretentious. The quality is good and goes full throttle, hence my serious dislike of some the art. But what's up with some of the lame blah stuff?
You guys see the photographs of words that were mounted like a photo collection? It'd be photos of different places and different words, mounted visually to read something like, " Eat Out or Put Out, " The words were photos of different signs so, red neon "eat," in and out's "out," or was half of an oregon bumper sticker, etc. Very cool. -
Review from illyanna M.
San Francisco, CA
5/25/2011
Well, I'm really going to miss this place. Artist-Xchange gave me one of my very first art shows back in 2004 and it's possible I may have sold my first piece ever here. I made some great friends amongst the exhibiting artists and made some great connections. More importantly, made a rock of stability out of its presence in the neighborhood. As long as AX was there, I knew my neighborhood hadn't changed that much.
Now the reality is really setting in. This is the second business of friends that has closed down in the last few months.
However, Scott told me I could show here again several months ago. No wonder he said yes. Haha. -
Review from Vittorio L.
Oakland, CA
1/5/2011
Great selection of matted prints, artwork, photographs, and handmade jewelry. Ran in to grab a birthday gift and came out with much more. I bought two prints and a pair of earrings. All beautiful, however, i just wish the person behind the counter would have perhaps told me more about each artist or have asked if I was looking for anything in particular.
I would like to say that they have some unique and interesting things to put up on your walls; prints/art nicely sized for most urban walls. Most definitely on my list next time I need to fill a spot on my wall with unique art. -
Review from Bobbin W.
7/27/2010
I'm really happy with the earrings I bought at Artist-Xchange. Both of them are by Kalyle Origami. The pair I bought for my sister comprises a red and green paisley pattern folded into the shape of regal birds, one for each ear; upon reflection, I think they might be cranes. Poised royally, the birds dangle at a nice length, separate tail feathers jutting dramatically to add even more height. Red and green beads add interest at the ear lobe.
My white pair contrasts nicely with my dark brown hair. Pink beads sit up top, leading to Pegasus origami formations. They are huge and dramatic and wonderful. I've already received a lot of compliments and enjoy telling people in Atlanta, "Why thank you! I got them in San Francisco." -
Review from Ed U.
9/23/2006
If Holly Golightly gave up being a call girl and opened an art gallery, it would look something like Artists X-Change.
This is one cool place, and I barely noticed it except that my friend made us stop in after we overstuffed ourselves at the Pork Store Cafe a few doors down. There is a variety of works by an even greater variety of local artists. Some are bizarre like these hanging wall vases that look slightly deflated condoms...not that I would know what those would look like.
Lots of paintings...one my friend loved was a cat sprawled like a Wilhelmina model after a rough night at Studio 54. One artist took Polaroids of words on various outdoor signs and spelled out sayings in linear montage photo frames. My favorite saying? "I...love...the...hole...and...the...pole."
There was even a listening station to spotlight CDs of local musicians which you can buy there. Of course, a lot of the art was pricey, but what price art? Definitely check it out.Listed in: Tired of Matchy-Match? Find…
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Review from Seong P.
1/22/2009
They have interesting art and accessories from a variety of artists in one space. The displays are nice and well spaced so even though there was a lot in there, it was not overwhelming.
I saw some bracelets and hair clips from an artist who was at Feria Urbana before Christmas. I'm glad I made my purchases from him directly because it was significantly less expensive. But for people who don't frequent those kind of things, it's great there is a place like this for artists to display and sell their work. -
Review from NirvAnna M.
San Francisco, CA
2/11/2007
I really dig this store, I think of it as an artistic candy shop with lots of really cool original art work and jewelry pieces all made by local artists and reasonably and affordably priced. I find myself gleefully coming in here each time I'm on the 16th street drag strip.
This is definitely one of my favorite places to find some cool original jewelry pieces. I have one necklace made by a local artist of which I get a lot of compliments on. So it goes without saying that you don't have to fork over big bucks for great jewelry or art, you just have to know where to go! -
Review from Christine G.
San Francisco, CA
3/12/2008
Whenever I come here, it takes every single ounce of my strength and discipline not to buy a gazillion items. They carry paintings, jewelry, home decor, bags, belts, wallets, etc. from local artists. It's all unique and well made. If you're not in the market to buy something for yourself, you're guaranteed to find a great gift for someone else.
Okay, so I admit, on my last visit here, I did end up buying two of Niana Liu's SF neighborhood postcards. Someday, I'll upgrade to the actual watercolor paintings. -
Review from Dorothy S.
San Francisco, CA
7/29/2006
Are you an emerging artist? Well, Artist-Xchange might just be the place for you. My first visit to this gallery was with a fellow artist friend and we both agreed that it was a nice little dig.
It's off of Valencia street, which is an eclectic amalgamation of nifty bookstores, coolness, nice sprinkling of popular bars and restaurants. The space is pretty amazing considering that it is a place for obscure to well known local artists. The staff is gregarious and helpful.
Best of all? You can afford the art. From originals to giclee prints, you can invest in some art that you can actually appreciate over time. Another commendable element of this art gallery is the diverse types (representational to abstract). Definitely worth a visit while you're strolling on Valencia! -
Review from Randy F.
San Francisco, CA
3/26/2009
Smart business model gets a lot of art on the walls and the rend paid. Also, you get to see what real artists are making. These are artists who work for a living, and make art for life. It's just my speed---I love emerging art.
The space is small. The gallery is set up more like a store than a gallery. It's really an art emporium. Such, there is a lot to see, and all of it is competing for your attention when you enter. You determine whether that's good or bad; for me, I like it because the gallery is as creatively done as the artwork it houses. It's all affordable, so this is the commoner's place for art. There's just not enough exhibition space in this town for emergents. Artists Exchange is a welcome dot on the map!Listed in: My Favorite Art Spots
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Review from Todd B.
San Francisco, CA
3/30/2008
I've bought art here and I've sold art here. I've also enjoyed just looking around at lots of clever and beautiful art.
Scott and Catherine are sincerely good people. Month after month they curate an interesting selection of art that is also very affordable.
This is where you should do your gift shopping. There's something for everyone and you will be supporting local artists - and keeping the money in San Francisco. -
Review from Ems K.
San Francisco, CA
5/10/2010
Great space with nice variety of pieces and disciplines.
Just purchased a print by Ursula Xanthe Young; it caught our attention a month ago and decided $50 was too much at the time. However, we couldn't stop thinking about it thus, returned to purchase.
Service can be better (the curator seems pretty snooty) thus, minus one star. But don't let that deter you from checking out the gallery's offering. -
Review from Jessie S.
San Francisco, CA
3/10/2009
Every time I have gone into this gallery I have come out with a beautiful piece of individual art from a local artist. That's all I need to give a 4 star recommendation.
I don't give five stars only because I wish there were a bit more frequent turnover of new pieces/artists. -
Review from Lijia X.
Berkeley, CA
6/15/2005
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Review from frisco j.
San Francisco, CA
9/7/2006
let's get one thing clear. i have no artistic talent. can't draw. can't paint. can't sculpt. blah, blah blah... ergo, my severe lack of talent compels me appreciate art that much more, especially if it's affordable art. hence in my layman's opinion, me think artist xchange is one of the better places in san francisco to buy affordable art from emerging artists. who knows? perhaps one of the emerging artists will hit big time and you can brag to all your friends that you have his/her early works in your living room. i'm just saying... ...it could happen.
* btw, when i say "affordable" art, it's anything from $300 to $2000. -
Review from Claire C.
San Francisco, CA
5/27/2005
This place has affordable art by local artists including jewelry. I have bought gifts here for many people and they have always been pleased. The jewelry is reasonably priced and similar to that in boutique stores but much MUCH less expensive. The owner is really personable and often hands out drinks at night when the gallery is open. Great place!
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Review from Gina K.
1/22/2008
If the girl I'm subletting from didn't leave her own weird art all over the walls, I would totally consider investing in a piece from artist xchange. It's a good place to get starter art for those on a budget, and I really like the work they carry there. Plus, they have beautiful jewelry for $50-$100. The only things I've been able to purchase, unfortunately, are a magnet and a postcard.
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Review from dana c.
San Francisco, CA
7/12/2007
I love this spot, their art is wonderful and they have all sorts of artists.. visually it is eye candy and they always have stuff that is more price accessible. the jewelery is super cute too. the people that work there though are oddly shy.
Listed in: my hood
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Review from Ben A.
San Francisco, CA
7/17/2008
I was out in the mission, although i try to avoid it and saw some really great hangings on the wall. There also seemed to be a buzz in the place, so I jumped in. I Met my current crush (and my introducer to yelp) here on one of the first Fridays of each month that have an artist opening. She had her eye on the painting that made me come in and we chatted about the artist, who was also there. It's local and cool, and I like that the owners know so much about each artist they represent in the store. Well done.
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Review from Nosniv X.
San Francisco, CA
6/1/2006
A great local gallery to check out emerging artists. They have an excellent online gallery, and if you are interested in seeing a particular piece in person you can arrange to have the artist leave the piece at this gallery for you to view.
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Review from Vivien W.
San Francisco, CA
1/31/2008
I can honestly say that I think I liked or loved everything in this store. It had unique art of all types that left me seriously contemplating planning a long-term budget and regular returns. I love that the artists are local. My friend and I found that we were wishing we owned homes so that we could decorate with all the wonderful items here! I left with the wonderful typewriter keys bracelet that is mentioned below, and I can't wait to re-visit again.
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Review from Stephanie J.
San Francisco, CA
12/9/2008
A wonderful selection of art, wall decor and jewelry. I've picked up a few things for my home and I've been pleasantly pleased with the quality of the work and integrity of the artists they present. Though some pieces seem a bit overpriced, I won't deny that there is some great talent here. The service was completely professional and accommodating and the space inviting. I will def keep an eye out for new things and pop in every now and then!
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Review from gabriel c.
San Francisco, CA
2/25/2009
Great space that promotes local and emerging artists. I have seen some amazing pieces move through this venue, and wish money was never an object. Along with their standard art objects they also carry a large selection of jewelry; including some incredible recycled pieces made of old watch parts, typewriters keys, and such made by The Brown Banana.
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Review from Angela P.
12/6/2008
An exciting place. New ideas and work.
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Review from Lisa N.
10/26/2009
You couldn't ask for a more unpretentious art gallery. This place rocks! I love browsing the unique and locally made artwork. It's also great that they constantly have new featured artists. It's a small space, but it does the job! Thanks for continuing to make art cool, interesting and for all.
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Review from Monika M.
San Francisco, CA
7/28/2008
What a beautiful art store, and with such reasonable prices! There are lots of great prints of San Francisco things thrown in with he rest of the awesome art. There are postcards and such for those who just want a little print. Totally laid back, no pressure store, too.
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Review from Andrew K.
San Francisco, CA
11/8/2008
I ventured into here one sunny Mission afternoon, on my way to an exhibition at another local gallery. What I loved immediately about Artist-Xchange was its whimsy, and it's jubilant, well-honed collection of quality art. My favorites were all the local art depicting familiar San Francisco scenes and neighborhoods. Most city art like this is tacky and better fit for a t-shirt, but A-X has curated some stand-out pieces that I'd be proud to hang on my wall and that reaffirmed my love for this city. If I ever remember names of the artists, I'll update.
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Review from Haz O.
Oceano, CA
2/10/2010
Very clever art. Prices are a bit high, but some of these are worth it. Check it out!
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Review from Emily R.
San Francisco, CA
5/5/2009
This is one of my favorite spots in the Mission. I love stopping in to browse through the local art, and I have found some awesome stuff to fill my walls! I think it's very reasonably priced for the most part. ( I did ask for a discount on two paintings last time and after checking with the artist, I saved a little $). They also have a fantastic selection of simple and beautiful jewelry. I don't make it in very often so it works for me, but I don't think the inventory changes that often.
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Review from Dahlia C.
Daly City, CA
1/31/2010
I loved this place the moment I stepped in. The person at the front greeted me as soon as I entered. As I took time to look around, I was amazed at all the beautiful displays of jewelry, wall paintings, ceramics, and sculptures. I especially liked the hand sculptures, pretty cool! It's wonderful that there are places like this that support local artists. I saw a few things I wished I had the money to buy, otherwise I would of came out of this place with an armload art pieces enough to decorate my house and a collection of beautiful jewelry.
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Review from zz z.
Bay Area
Updated - 9/30/2009
This is an awesome gallery and they treat artists really well. Check out the locally-made art, paintings, photography, jewelry, cards etc.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/24/2008
This is a fun gallery with great art and "affordable" jewelry from local artists. The staff is also… Read more »
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Review from paul r.
San Francisco, CA
12/16/2006
Schizophrenic is how I would rate this place. There is some great stuff, some hokey stuff and some well... But I always keep coming back - I check it at least twice a month (it's close to my house). I have two pieces hanging in my apt that I bought here, as well as two gifts (crafts) that I have given.
I think it is important that places like this exist (I also love city arts cooperative on Valencia). I just with the staff was a bit more engaging (or just friendly)... -
Review from violentbloom x.
Los Altos, CA
9/5/2008
I've gotten some very lovely art here at affordable prices. They're not pushy and you can browse to your heart's content.
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Review from Kirsten F.
Chicago, IL
11/24/2006
i have very mixed feelings about artist x-change. i was on a quest for two very important birthday presents in one afternoon. i had ideas in mind for both but feared that i would hoof it all over the mission and come up empty handed. my first stop was artist x-change. 25 minutes later, i had both gifts in the bag, as well as a little something for myself. both gifts were a huge success. both were extremely reasonably priced and had been created by local artists. love that.
however, my gift for myself was a print from a local artist that i had spotted literally six months or more ago on a previous visit. i had mulled it over at the time and decided that i really reeeeeally wanted it. so i went back in, only to find that they had sold out of that particular print. the salesperson offered to call the artist and see if she could bring another print over. he called me back later that day to say that it was all arranged but that he would need my credit card and would take half of the price to hold the piece for me. no problem, i understand. however, before he started taking the number, he realized that he had the price wrong or something and needed to figure it out. he said he'd call back. he did, but didn't leave a message when i missed his call. i called back the next day and didn't reach anyone. i NEVER HEARD FROM HIM AGAIN. you'd think he'd want to make the sale enough to make a return call. or that he would be familiar with the system of voicemail and could have left me instructions or even the actual price. it was weird. he wasn't nice at the beginning of our interaction, and i found the whole thing to be lacking in the customer service to be expected from a small business person.
luckily, when i went back in, they had the print in question in stock, so i was able to snatch it up without a single telephone interaction. the guy still wasn't all that friendly. but they have great merchandise and i love supporting local artists. so overall, thumbs up. -
Review from .q q.
San Francisco, CA
9/9/2007
This was one of the first places I ever showed art. Scott was really nice and even tried to cheer me up when I sold next to nothing (only the other artists bought). This place is the love child of some people with money who want to bring a bit of hope to SF artists. He didn't make me feel like I was begging when he let me show there... Most places are downright degrading when they select people. The feeling here is if you care enough to put it out there, they care enough to show it.
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Review from paul p.
San Francisco, CA
9/30/2010
Despite having a decent collection from local artists, the staff isn't very friendly. The guy (who I assume is the owner) never says hello to anyone and always looks put out if you have a question. I'm all for not hassling customers, but you also don't have to look like your mom made you watch the store.
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Review from David R.
San Francisco, CA
2/16/2007
Pretty cool spot. Some great photography!! I didn't like all of the local artist's work that was on display but with that said there was some real promising work too. Some real visionaries!! check it out.
