Feel-Good Goods, Colorfully Curated | Fun Finds, Art & Local Love

Welcome to Artisans & agency, your go-to spot for the best in American-made, locally-inspired artwork and design. Whether you’re chopping veggies on a beautiful wooden cutting board, sipping coffee from a perfectly made mug, or wearing a pair of handmade earrings, we’ve got the perfect pieces to make every day a little more special. From clever cards to original paintings, we’ve got something for everyone!

Artisans has been a downtown Santa Cruz gem since 1976, originally an artists' cooperative. The coop was forced to disband in the aftermath of the 1989 earthquake. Enter John and Juleen Lisher, who restructured the coop into a retail business, local heroes determined to keep the spirit of Artisans alive. As the city rebuilt, so did the gallery, growing to feature artists from all over North America.

In 1993, the Lishers hired 16-year-old Linnaea Holgers as holiday help. Fast-forward to 2009, when Linnaea celebrated her 16-year employment anniversary by buying the business. In 2015, Linnaea and her husband Peter took Artisans to the next level by adding agency to the name and curating contemporary home goods and lifestyle accessories. And in 2021, they introduced Christiania Bikes from Denmark to the U.S. Look for these iconic bikes around town—or hanging out in front of the store, ready to make deliveries!

Artisans & agency is located in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, with Abbott Square and the Museum of Art and History just past our rainbow wall out back. Come and enjoy!