BY BRITT COLLETT
It can be challenging to find unique clothing, jewelry and trinkets that don’t cost a fortune. Purchasing art for your home can be next to impossible when you’re on a budget. ShopColumbia is Columbia College Chicago’s very own store that offers original designs created and inspired by Columbia student artists. Since the shop opened, Columbia artists have earned over $155,000 from the sale of their work.
The best part for shoppers? You’ll find plenty of different art options without breaking the bank.
ShopColumbia features both student and alumni artwork, offering budding artists the opportunity to gain hands-on experience outside the classroom. I was most impressed by the quality of the art: it’s just as professional as the art you might find anywhere else.
The mini shop stocks impressive photographs, stationary, stylish purses and eclectic fashion accessories. You’ll find plenty of out-there items for your home, like shower curtains decorated with Russian vocabulary and SAT math concepts. Wall art runs the gamut from local photography to elaborate wood carvings with quippy sayings. Prices are reasonable, like T-shirts for $5.00 T-shirts and handmade jewelry for $40.00.
ShopColumbia has grown immensely since its opening in October 2008, including the recent launch of an e-commerce site to give patrons easier access to shopping the variety of student wares. SHOP Columbia is hosting its annual market event on December 6-8. At the event, shoppers can meet and mingle with artist and designers and enjoy holiday treats as they check off everyone on their gift list.
ShopColumbia, 623 South Wabash. For more information call 312-369-8616, visit the new online store at shop.colum.edu or follow on Facebook or Twitter.
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