Artbeat featured local fan fave Practical Art a few years ago and we are happy to report that they are still offering a fantastic array of functional goods made in Arizona at their uptown central Phoenix location, steps from the Light Rail. Handmade gifts for every occasion are in store just north of Camelback Road on Central Ave, Wednesday-Sunday 12-6pm. Monday and Tuesday by appointment.

Along with an ever-changing art gallery inside the store, Practical Art has yoga, trunk shows and classes galore for anyone looking to increase the creativity in their lives as well as a self-help library with titles and graphics you will find nowhere else. New arrivals on the regular and be sure to get on their e-newsletter so you don’t miss a thing, like Charity Pie Night, a delicious way to socialize Friday nights and benefit a new cause each week. Generous in thought and action, Practical Art puts the multi-artistic experience in your hands in so many ways. Stop by soon to enjoy the 16th Anniversary Group Show. Free shipping in the metro area. Have a question? Give them a call at (602) 264-1414.

Pip Coffee + Clay

Get caffeinated (or tipsy) while your get your hands messy learning from trained professionals how to throw a pot, coffee mug or flower vase on a spinning wheel in a comfortable indoor setting. Ideal for beginners, this Phoenix studio mixes it up with group or private classes, class packs, ‘hand builds’ and e-cards 7 days-a-week. Nosh at their in-house cafe’ and shop for something nobody else has in their very creative gift store.

It’s not just lattes and espressos, either. Would you rather have a beer, wine or cocktails? Pip Coffee + Clay sounds like one of the most artistic parties in town! Call (480) 616-0004 or info@pipcoffeeclay.com for details on any of their programs. 2617 N. 24th Street, just south of Virginia. Check website for holiday hours.

Art for Fun! Studio & Gallery

What better motivation is there than doing something for amusement of it? Quoted as saying, “You don’t have to be an artist to be an artist,” the cheerful folks at Art4Fun provide everything necessary for your artistic success.

They keep their classes small, so all students receive personal attention. Make a ceramic mug, glass mosaic or paint a silk scarf for yourself or a special person in your life. It’s guaranteed to be a piece to cherish forever. They also do birthdays, baby and bridal showers, team building events and more. Open Tuesday-Sunday in Phoenix. Call or email to schedule your class or party today at (602) 274-6441 or art4funstudio@gmail.com.