Discover the Works of Local Artisans

ST. CROIX

Crucian Gold is a family-owned fine jewelry emporium that has been creating one-of-a-kind pieces for over 50 years. Located on Strand Street, the butter-yellow shop is the headquarters for expertly crafted jewelry that reflects St. Croix’s culture and heritage. The Bishop family designs jewelry in gold, silver, copper, and local materials like coral and shells. Step into the store and you’ll immediately be captivated by rows of glistening bracelets, rings, necklaces, earrings and pendants. The shop sells Crucian knot jewelry that features delicately intertwined strands representing unity. Chaney jewelry — featuring colorful bits of china that date back to the island’s colonial days — is one of the family’s specialties. You’ll also find pieces incorporating local sights like sugar mills and moko jumbie stilt walkers.

In the heart of downtown Christiansted, Mitchell Larsen Studio has attracted global acclaim for its intricate, handmade art glass. Owners Jan Mitchell-Larsen and Steffen Larsen design colorful pieces beloved by locals and visitors alike. The charm of the gallery’s art is evident in its unique details and creativity. Shimmering glass plates, goblets and ornaments are emblazoned with hibiscus flowers, sea turtles and coconut palms. Nightlights, cutting boards and clocks are functional pieces of art. The gallery offers hundreds of designs to choose from, or you can opt for a custom piece. Jan Mitchell-Larsen’s work is featured in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian, and her sculptures are dotted around the island.

Walk into the shady courtyard of the Apothocary Hall Museum in downtown Christiansted and you’ll find Barbara Art Studio, a charming combination gallery, studio and classroom. Artist Barbara Gelardi paints vivid acrylic works that highlight island life, including tropical flowers, marine animals, beach scenes, sea birds and sunsets. She also hosts art classes for adults and children, as well as weekly paint-and-sip events. In addition, Barbara paints murals for businesses around the island, so you’ll undoubtedly spot her vibrant works in area hotels and along the streets.

Cane Roots Art Gallery is filled with cozy chairs and benches, as well as thought-provoking artworks. The gallery also serves as a cultural center for the local community, and is an art education hub for students. The breezy, sky-blue building hosts exhibits that focus on the art, culture and history of the Caribbean and Americas. Themes include emancipation, the Crucian Christmas Festival, and the interplay of light and shadows. The art showcased here includes paintings, photography, sculpture and mixed media. The gallery hosts weekly talks with artists and special events like Art Over Bush Tea.

ST. JOHN

The stone walls of the St. John Experience Gallery are lined with glowing images of the island’s iconic landscapes. Turquoise waves, lush trees and mountains pop with energy. The gallery showcases St. John photography that’s printed on canvas and metal for a life-like effect. Traditional beach photos are displayed from fresh angles and viewpoints, making viewers feel like they are surrounded by the beauty of St. John.

Stepping into the light-filled space of Caravan Gallery is like visiting another world. From every corner of the eclectic shop, artifacts, carvings and jewelry sourced from all over the globe peek out. Shelves filled with laughing Buddha statues and carved dragons from Thailand, lapis and coral necklaces from Turkey, ceramic tea sets from Japan and rosewood chess sets from India are just a few of the items on display. The gallery is noted for its affordable and unique gifts, with everything from raw crystal obelisks and spheres to elaborate hand-carved masks.

Perched on the serene shores of Frank Bay, Coconut Coast Studios offers art among a backdrop of sea breezes and lapping waves. Artist Elaine Estern creates original watercolors inspired by the lovely vistas of St. John. Noted for fascinating paintings that include both above and below water perspectives in one piece, Elaine uses vivid colors to illustrate the island’s beauty in a singular way. Her work reveals scenes like swimming fish and turtles with green mountains pictured above. She also depicts St. John‘s distinctive architecture, including ruins, sugar mills and landmark buildings. Elaine’s unique designs are also featured on prints, tiles, notecards, calendars and puzzles that make for great souvenirs.

ST. THOMAS

For over 30 years, Mango Tango Art Gallery has graced St. Thomas with fine art exhibits and community gatherings. Owner Jane Coombs showcases artists from USVI and the mainland, with unique angles and techniques. Monthly events include group shows displaying a range of media, including abstract paintings and ceramics. There are also solo shows that focus on artists’ selected themes. The gallery sells pieces with familiar island scenes like seascapes and gardens, as well as experimental works.

Founded in 2008, Seven Minus Seven acts as an alternative arts alliance and nonprofit, providing a cooperative working studio and gallery for local artists. As an art collective, the organization hosts workshops and youth outreach services on St. Thomas. Group art shows feature paintings, mixed media and photography. A recent solo show showcased elaborate oil-on-wood portraits of local unhoused residents by St. Thomas artist Steve Counselman. Proceeds from the show benefited the Clean and Clear project, which provides services for Charlotte Amalie residents experiencing homelessness.

Discover more shops and galleries featuring local artisan works.