by Eavin Moore
This story starts as so many do, with instructions from my beautiful bride.
“You have to find a flask for the daughter’s boyfriend,” she tells me.
Apparently he has been hanging around a sufficient amount of time to merit a Christmas gift. I’m not sure what to make of the fact that a flask is on his list for Santa, but he’s over 21, so who am I to judge? As I recall, I occasionally used to smuggle a wine skin into Missouri Western games back in the day. (For medicinal purposes of course).
Anyway, here I am walking down Francis toward the Kirkpatrick Café for lunch, when what do I spy in a shop window, but the elusive flask itself. I’m a few minutes early for my lunch meeting so I pop in.
The establishment of course is An Artful Life on the corner of 7th and Francis. I am embarrassed to report that this was my first visit. As they are a regular advertiser in The Regular Joe, you would think I would have stopped in earlier, but regretfully I had not.
Perhaps I had the wrong impression. In my mind, I heard art in the title and assumed pretentious and overpriced. My mistake. What I found instead was a charming space filled with unique objects d’art, contemporary furniture, jewelry and gifts.
I introduced myself to Alexandria, the lovely young woman behind the counter, who proceeded to show me around.
There is so much visual stimuli in every direction, it is hard to know where to start, so let’s go top to bottom. The high ceilings allow for an excellent display of large original paintings. A variety of mediums, techniques and styles should offer something to accent almost any décor. There are a few places in town where you can get a nice framed print, but fewer indeed where you can get a signed original. I was impressed with the selection and surprised that this kind of quality was available locally.
Closer to eye level as I make my way around the showroom are a myriad of clever displays offering unique gift items. Gourmet candies, hand printed silk neckties and a line of hilarious greeting cards, are among the many items that take advantage of the beautiful built-in display units designed for the original occupant, the Kirkpatrick Jewelry Company. The woodwork and beveled glass is incredible and unmatched by any retail establishment in town.
Speaking of jewelry, this is another specialty of An Artful Life. The attractive display cases are filled with colorful rings, necklaces and bracelets from talented designers around the world. Their buyers know the clientele and have built up an impressive list of regulars who come specifically to see each new shipment. The store prides itself on carrying items not found anywhere else in the area.
Resting on the floor itself are the largest pieces on display, the furniture and architectural pieces. There are several contemporary sofas and sectionals that would look right at home in any loft apartment. There are rugs and lamps, coffee and end tables, and complete dining sets as well. I was particularly impressed with some beautiful antique fireplace surrounds. I could absolutely see someone new to town, completely outfitting their living space top to bottom with chic items from An Artful Life and at prices well below what you would expect for this kind of quality.
But then again, maybe this is not the place for you. Perhaps you prefer the “Genuine Naugahyde” or “Fun Fur Pit Groups” sold at K.C. warehouse retailers. It’s quite possible that Elvis on black velvet or the dogs playing poker is the height of your decorating aspirations. If so, perhaps they won’t have anything for you at An Artful Life.
On the other hand, if you are someone who appreciates the finer things at reasonable prices that you won’t find anywhere in the region, then no doubt this establishment has something for you. I encourage you to stop in and browse. They are open Tuesday through Friday 10am to 5pm and Saturdays 10am to 3pm. I’m sure any of the lovely ladies there will tell you, “Come Look At My Stuff!” and please, don’t forget to tell them “Joe” sent you.