As gathered by Janine Vangool of Uppercase Gallery

Art Central

Art Central is a must-see destination when visiting Calgary. It is centrally located, just a block from the Calgary Tower. Three levels offer over 40 galleries, shops, and artist studios as well as an excellent restaurant (The Siding Cafe) and DeVille Luxury Coffee and Pastries. It is easy to get to by public transit: the C-Train stops right outside on 7th Avenue. There is plenty of parking in the nearby Telus Convention Centre.

Art Central is has been my home-away-from home for nearly four years: UPPERCASE is located on the upper level. I've highlighted some of my favourite shops, but there is a lot more information on Art Central's website. The First Thursday of the month is a great evening to visit since everyone is open late and there is entertainment, openings and refreshments.

Corner of 7th Ave and Centre Street, downtown
artcentral.ca


La Fleur

On Art Central's main level you'll find La Fleur, a floral gallery. Their window displays are often outstanding and the flowers and lushness extends into the hall. A large bird cage houses a family of birds and at Easter, they had cute little chicks. You can register for floral design workshops.

Main Level, Art Central
corner of 7th Ave & Centre Street SW
www.artcentral.ca/tenants/47-la-fleur


Nation Toys & Tees

Calgary's source for vinyl toys, street-inspired art and Threadless Tees.

Lower Level, Art Central
corner of 7th Ave SW & Centre Street
thisisnation.com

Studio Todorovic

Studio Todorovic might be the smaller art supply store you will ever see, but it is very well-stocked! Owner/artist Ljubica has a fondness for rabbits, so you'll likely see plenty of her bunny drawings and paintings. (If you ask nicely, she might draw a bunny on a business card for you.)

Main Level, Art Central
Corner of 7th Ave SW & Centre Street
www.studiotodorovic.com


Shisomiso

Shisomiso is an excellent store where you'll find unique clothing by Canadian designers. They also feature art and photography by local artists. The clothing is arranged by colour and texture, which is a really great way of visualizing your future favourite outfit!

Main Level, Art Central
Corner of 7th ave & Centre Street SW
www.shisomiso.com


UPPERCASE gallery, books & papergoods

Of course, my favourite shop happens to be my own! We have the best selection of graphic design and illustration books in town, greeting cards that you won't find anywhere else, and a hand-picked selection of paper products. Many products are designed and handmade right here in UPPERCASE. The gallery display changes every few months with themed shows and solo exhibitions.

Upper Level, Art Central
corner of 7th ave SW & Centre Street
www.uppercasegallery.ca

Stephen Avenue

One block south of Art Central is a pedestrian promenade called Stephen Avenue. This four block stretch features boutiques, restaurants and shopping malls, many in Calgary's historic sandstone buildings. Look for Twig flower and gift shop, Kismet clothing, Arnod Churgin Shoes, and the requisite western outfitters.

www.downtowncalgary.com/index.html


As gathered by Janine Vangool of Uppercase Gallery, Calgary, Alberta.