Austin is a city known for its vibrant arts scene, with local artists, street murals and independent galleries filling many corners of the city. Whether you're looking for an eye-catching piece for your apartment or want to support the city's new and emerging talent, there are plenty of places to find and buy original art in Austin.
Why Austin is a hub for art
Austin has long been a magnet for creatives, with its rich culture, live music scene and independent spirit fueling an environment where artists thrive.
The city is home to numerous art festivals, such as the Austin Studio Tour and SXSW Art Program, which celebrate local talent and bring national attention to the community. And, with an abundance of public art installations, murals and grassroots initiatives supporting the arts, Austin fosters a dynamic and ever-expanding creative scene that makes it one of the most exciting places to buy original art.
Here’s where to start your search!
7 places to buy local art in Austin
Canopy Austin
Canopy Austin is a dynamic creative space in East Austin that houses a variety of artists, galleries and studios. Home to Big Medium, an organization that supports local artists, Canopy offers an ever-changing selection of paintings, photography and mixed-media pieces that change with the artists who call the space home. The monthly open studio events provide a chance to meet these artists and purchase work directly from them in the very studios where they were made!
Art for the People Gallery
This eclectic gallery on South First Street features work exclusively from Austin-based artists. Art for the People showcases everything from paintings and sculptures to handcrafted jewelry and home décor — it’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting Austin’s local creative community.
The Austin Art Garage
The Austin Art Garage was founded to make local art both accessible and affordable.
Located on South Lamar, this gallery focuses on up-and-coming artists and offers original paintings, prints and mixed-media pieces at a range of price points that fit anyone’s style and taste. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or buying your first piece, this is a great spot to discover Austin talent!
The Cathedral
The Cathedral is a women-owned gallery and event space in a refurbished 1930s church that exclusively features work by atxGALS, a collective of female artists in Austin. The unique space hosts frequent art shows and community events, making it an inspiring and memorable place to browse and buy original art in a remarkable location.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
A seasonal favorite, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar is an annual holiday art market showcasing over 200 local Austin artists! The event features a wide variety of original artwork that include paintings, ceramics, textiles and pretty much anything else an Austinite could imagine. If you’re in Austin during the holiday season or have visitors looking for things to do, this is the perfect opportunity to shop directly from local creatives and get unique pieces or Austin art.
Yard Dog Art Gallery
Yard Dog specializes in contemporary folk and outsider art from Austin and beyond.
Located in the South Congress neighborhood, this quirky gallery features bold, unconventional pieces on a variety of mediums, including works on wood, metal and canvas. If you’re looking for art with personality, this is the place to explore.
East Austin Studio Tour
Organized by Big Medium, the East Austin Studio Tour (EAST) is an annual, free event that allows art lovers to visit local studios, meet artists and purchase artwork directly from the creators. It’s one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Austin’s thriving art community while discovering new artists and original works!
Austin’s art scene is diverse and ever-evolving, making it easy to find original pieces that match your style. Whether you visit a gallery, browse an art market or attend an open studio tour, there are countless opportunities to support local artists and bring a unique touch to your Austin apartment space. Be sure to check out these spots next time you’re browning for décor, and you’re sure to find something that catches your eye!
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Featured photo by Ari He on Unsplash
Second photo by Ilia Zolas on Unsplash
Colleen Ford is a South African who now lives on Oahu in Hawai'i. She loves to travel, camp, spearfish and hike. She's also part of a super cool canoe club and is pretty decent at it. Colleen enjoys Star Wars and also not being cold ever.
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