Business Overview

Old Town Artisans is located in the El Presidio District of Downtown Tucson. There are seven distinctive shops and galleries in the 150 year old building, which feature fine art and craft from local, regional, and national artists. We encourage you to spend some time in the Courtyard and enjoy some refreshing food and beverage from La Cocina.

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More About Us

MORE ABOUT US

Old Town Artisans is situated on the site of El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson, the fort constructed by the Spanish in 1775 to stake claim to the northern frontier of New Spain. Our block was the stables area, and our north wall is the location of the fort's north wall from which Apache attacks were repelled. Construction of the adobe buildings was begun in the 1850's.

The 1882 Tucson Directory lists a variety of early residents, including assayers, clerks, a ladies' nurse and a grocery store. In 1888 Julius Goldbaum, a liquor merchant, bought the property for use as a distillery and his family's home. Wander through the shops and you will see unique, original ceilings made of saguaro cactus ribs, packing crates, and whiskey barrel staves with remnants of imported wallpaper and gold-leaf mouldings.

The Old Town Pot Shop has one of the largest collections of ceramic pots in town. The gallery has a widespread collection of regionally hand-crafted pottery, glass, home furnishings, metal work, photography, paintings and prints.

The Tucson Presidio Trust for Historic Preservation and Tucson City Parks and Recreation invite you to step into Tucson’s history at the recreated Spanish fort that was early Tucson. With indoor and outdoor museum exhibits and a gift shop full of unique and regional items, the Presidio offers the visitor a chance to absorb Tucson’s interesting and diverse cultures. Living History programs are offered October through April and docents are always available to answer questions. To learn more, click here.

Here at La Cocina, there is something for everyone. Enjoy a tasty meal in our beautiful courtyard, belly up to the bar and have a creative cocktail, take a listen to live music under the stars, or have the time of your life dancing until the wee hours. We care intensely for our community and strive to offer a gathering place for all. Our Cantina pours local beer, Tucson musicians take the stage most days of the week, and we support our local farmers and ranchers. Learn more about us by clicking here.

You will truly be inspired when you walk into Shelago’s Artwerks USA! The jewelry featured in this shop is all completely handmade and designed with rare and unique stones. Each piece is handcrafted onsite and custom orders are encouraged. If you’re looking for a exclusive, one of a kind gift for someone special, or even a little something special for yourself, stop on in. It’s not all about jewelry though! Shelago's Artwerks USA is a true art gallery as well, with artists’ works from all over the USA displayed and for sale. Most of the artists who display in the gallery have won more than one first place or best of show awards at fine art shows around the USA. Exquisite wood bowls, delightful gourd work, woven baskets and glass items are just a few of the items produced my artists from around the country and displayed in our store. Beautiful paintings, floral arrangements and photography grace the walls of Shelago's Artwerks USA. Open 7 days per week, except on major holidays. Let our friendly staff of professional artists help with your next art purchase.

Featured Artists

• James Shelago, Custom Lapidary and Silversmithing
• Mimi Shelago, Fine Oil Painting
• Paul Hopman, Fine Scratchboard Artist
• Hank Richter, Fine Western Artist
• Pam Caskey, Fine Basket Weaving
• Alan Moritz, Fine Wood Vessels
• Michele Barnhart, Fine Framed Flower Artist
• Danny O’Driscoll, Fine Wildlife Artist
• Brian Horan, Black & White Photography
• Daryl Cohen & Kevin Frank, Judaica Glass
• Maggie Leduc, Fine Gourds and Weavings
• Mitzi Ciesielski, Copper Whirley Gigs
• Jim Lee, Oil Paintings
• Chris Andrews, Modern Western Airbrush
• Kathy & Craig Rose, Southwestern Flower Artists
• Eric Jabwner, Acrlic Artist
• Randy Keeda, Fine Indian Oil Artist

Upon entering Tolteca Tlacuilo you will discover an array of treasures from artists of the Americas and the world. You will find unique, contemporary, and traditional hand crafted gifts for our home and friends. Discover in-town convenience with Old World Charm. To learn more, click here.

We encourage you to stop on down and visit us today! There is always something for everyone at the Old Town Artisans!