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Art mart a fine start
From our weekly issue dated September 10, 2008
(Photo by Michelle Binker Illinois Valley News)
For the many skilled and gifted artists who call this part of Southwestern Oregon home, having access to the right tools and material is crucial.
Jeanine Renee bought Grants Pass Art Supply a little more than a year ago to ensure that whether a student or serious artist, the necessary items could be found close at hand. While she wouldn’t call herself an artist, she likes to watercolor, and says that since owning the store she’s learned a lot.
“I’m probably on par with some of the art students,” she said with a laugh.
Her intention is to continue to make certain that fine art products and tools are available to local artists.
“I know how hard it is to have to drive to Medford,” Renee said. The store is brimming with watercolors, acrylic and oil paints; brushes; prepared canvases in a multitude of sizes; drawing supplies (pencils, markers, pens); and adjustable models.
Plus, there are fun items like modeling clay, calligraphy pens, and origami papers.
Renee stocks a broad selection of acrylic paints in a wide price range. For the student or “street artist,” Renee carries a line of Louvre acrylics and oils which come in larger quantities at a reasonable price. These dye-based acrylics are suitable for murals and the like, she said.
She also carries pigment-based acrylics for painters who would like the ability to blend color with good results. Grants Pass Art Supply recently has expanded to accommodate its wide selection of canvases, which are currently offered for 30 percent off the regular price.
Renee said that she soon will carry some high-end supplies – “for serious artists” – including figures and models.
Many of her customers come in to fill supply lists for high school or college art classes, private instructors or home schooling groups. A discount is offered to students purchasing supplies.
There is a seasonality to the sales of art supplies, Renee noted. “In the spring,” she said, “there was a rush on supplies for plein air painting, as everyone wanted to get outside. Later in the summer as people go on vacation, they might pick up tiny, travel-sized watercolor sets, papers and the like.”
A visit to Grants Pass Art Supply can kindle the creative fire. Customers can enter to win a $25 gift certificate until Oct. 4. The store is situated in the heart of Downtown Grants Pass at 227 N.W. Fifth St. between E and F streets, not far from the Saturday Grower’s Market. The store is open Tuesdays through Fridays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m..
The telephone number is 471-6192.
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