Picture this offers an array of frames in various sizes, designs and colors, neatly hung on the wall for customers to see. Large and small painting and photographs are on display throughout the gallery, most depicting a seascape or beach theme. Antique maps of the local area dated to the 1870s are sold here, one of the store's most popular items. A small collection of books and other trinkets add diversity to the store, and rack after rack of greeting cards are available for every occasion.
For those looking for decor and gifts from another era, look no further than Mystic Scrimshanders. Proudly proclaiming itself to be "two hundred years behind the times," Scrimshanders houses a selection of scrimshaw (intricate bone carvings), Nantucket baskets, jewelry and other nautical-themed products. Among its more unique products is a selection of mammoth ivory art pieces.
Scrimshanders also offers appraisal and repair for scrimshaw and ivory items, and repair of gold and silver jewelry. Layaway is also available.
This small create-your-own pottery and ceramics shop caters to everyone -- from kids looking to escape the boredom of a rainy weekend to bridal parties looking to make something special for the bride-to-be. Unpainted pottery and ceramics line the store's shelves, just waiting to be customized, while tables at the center give artists the space to let their creative (and potentially messy) spirit take flight. Weirdgirl also offers art classes, workshops and private lessons. Drop-ins are allowed, but large parties should call ahead.
Artists' Exchange is a vital part of Cranston's cultural scene. A nonprofit arts collaborative, it houses The Black Box Theatre, art studios, gallery space, a boutique and cafe.
Located in the center of Rolfe Square, Artists' Exchange is always bustling, with art classes, summer camps, birthday parties and events during the day and music, theatre, art and performances at night.
Located on Aquidneck Avenue in Middletown, Beach Studios is the working studio of local artists, Judy Chaves, Anne Winthrop Cordin, Nanette Dunn, Kendra Ferreira, Helen Hadley, Kim Kirby, Kathy Morton, Sandy O'Brien and Felicia Touhey. The artists work in a variety of mediums and offer fine arts classes and workshops. Call Beach Studios during regular business hours for viewing and program registration information.