Shop Local: Whitney Winkler Art Studio + Gift Shop

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering her work for the first time, Whitney’s story (and the space she’s created) offers a refreshing reminder of the beauty that comes from following your creative dreams.

How long has Whitney Winkler Art Studio and Gift Shop been open/in business? :

We will celebrate the 4 year anniversary of the brick and mortar shop this August!

Why Midtown near Broad Avenue Arts District for this location?:

I am a Midtown-er at heart, so I knew the shop had to be close to home. I chose the Broad Avenue Arts District because of my belief in both the current and future vibrancy of this area, my existing relationships with business owners here, and its easy accessibility from all parts of Memphis via Sam Cooper.

What inspired the concept of Whitney Winkler Art Studio and Gift Shop?

I have been a full time artist since 2017, and used to only sell online and at art markets. Over time as I began to create more products, the brick and mortar shop felt like a natural progression for me to have both my art studio and show my work all in one physical space.

What do you feel sets Whitney Winkler Art Studio and Gift Shop apart from other local gift shops? 

The shop has evolved from initially being primarily my art and textiles, to now being a mix of my art, handmade pieces from mostly women-owned local and regional artisans, and curated vintage items. Having my working studio in the back of the store keeps the creativity closely-knit to the retail side of things. Our goal is that your experience in the shop feels like a magical treasure hunt, and that you feel connected and a part of a creative experience. Many of my original works are available in the shop, as well as the ability to commission custom work in store.

I believe what sets us apart is the desire that almost all items in the shop be one of a kind, ethically sourced, and sustainable gift options. This means we value that, rather than sellingmass-produced factory items, our artisans be paid fairly for their craftsmanship. It also means that we seek to bring new life to existing vintage items with the goal of less retail waste, and that we regularly create and offer re-imagined pieces from salvaged articles. We believe the art of thoughtful gifting is alive and well, and remains one of the most marked parts of the human experience. With that, we feel the privilege to be able to provide a vibrant, collected, and thoughtful space where Memphians can be confident that their gifting dollars are going to far more than just another retail machine-- to art, to quality craftsmanship, and to sustainable retail practices.

What’s your favorite part of owning Whitney Winkler Art Studio and Gift Shop? 

If you would have told me years ago that my grown up job would be to fill 500 square feet with all of my favorite things in a sunlit room in a city I love, I would have said, "pinch me". Owning and operating the shop still feels every bit the dream it started out as, and probably moreso now, because I don't hold back. The space has truly become what it was meant to be all along in my mind's eye, and I enjoy tinkering more and more with that vision day by day. My favorite part as of late has been our vintage apparel line. Our tiny team is taking salvaged vintage fabrics and creating, embroidering, and embellishing the most beautiful articles of clothing and accessories.

Any fun upcoming events or programming we should know about?

Come visit us for our shop's 4th birthday weekend August 7th -9th! We will have discounts, treats, and popups all weekend long!

How can people shop with you/keep up with what’s happening with Whitney Winkler Art Studio and Gift Shop?

The best way to keep up with us is on Instagram at @whitneywinkler_art, Facebook at Whitney Winkler Art, or to visit us online and join our email newsletter at www.whitneywinkler.com.

Whitney Winkler Art
503 N Hollywood St
Memphis, TN 38112

Hours:
Thursday-Saturday: 11am-5pm
Sunday-Wednesday: Closed

Links:
https://whitneywinkler.com/
https://www.instagram.com/whitneywinkler_art
https://www.facebook.com/whitneywinklerart/