About Us

"For many of us, the Artisan Center holds a notable presence in our pasts and our presents. Throughout decades, trends and changes, the Artisan Center has acted as a rock , a cornerstone of familiarity and comfort, and as a haven from the outside world and likewise, from personal tribulations. Each of us who, day after day enter through the infamous half-door, has memorized by heart the architectural structure, and has grown to love the ever-changing juxtaposition of its' cornucopia of treasures. There is a special magic that awaits each person who crosses over the threshold of the outside world into the Artisan Center- a magic that allows each person to momentarily free themselves of the crosses that they bear, and to, for as long as they remain inside these walls, be at peace. While the physical structure of the Artisan Center is ingrained with and founded upon this good energy, we who love this place and dwell within it, act as the keepers and perpetuators of this peace. With each greeting, each smile, each act of kindness and attentiveness, we carry forward the vision and greatness of the Artisan Center. With each compliment we give, each demonstration of genuine interest or concern, and each display of personal connection, we are prolonging the Artisan Centers' good name; and what is more, by all of these acts, we are not only making someone else's day, we are making our own as well."

Written by Alexandra Morris, Staff Member 2003-2009, Artisan Center

 

"Over the past 29 years in the same location the Artisan Center is a Denver landmark and community gathering place and through architectural default ensures that people meet, talk, help and come together in the marketplace spirit of community. Under the visage of its single owner, Ellen Seale Durst, the Artisan Center has been able to transcend retail from the common to the extraordinary by implementing and manifesting Ellen's vision:

"of creating a naturally magical experience that offers as unique collection of contemporary crafts in a safe and joyful gathering place for community/staff; to provide a venue for artisans; and, to offer legendary service."

Once a drugstore, our loyal and emerging customer base comes to "their favorite place" to be reminded of the beauty and hopefulness of creativity. Our customers consistently recognize the Artisan Center uniqueness by repeatedly awarding it "BEST RETAIL ESTABLISHMENT" over the years. Our employees understand the challenge of being the keepers of the Artisan Center experience flame and refine our commitment to the community and connections with an employee longevity range extending from three to 24 years. In doing what we do the Artisan Center is able to daily "live its mission".

Written by Shadi Letson, Manager 1998-2006, Artisan Center