Buy Your Valentine Some Art!

Let’s talk about love … and art. Let’s find the perfect gift for that charming special star in your life. I’ve roamed the city and found some lovely forms of art that will top the list of blissful art buying.

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” Charles M. Schultz got it right. For the culinary individual, I recommend Stock Culinary Goods. Store associate Victoria Young educated me on E.H. Chocolatier, artisan chocolates. They carry these delicate works of art that will have you eager to savor all the varieties. On February 2, Black Dinah Chocolatiers will demonstrate in the store accompanied by a wine pairing. Such a wonderful way to begin your confection art collection! The shop truly is culinary art-friendly. 756 Hope St, PVD, 401-521-0101, stockculinarygoods.com

Want to continue your confectionary gatherings? Popette of Pendulum are amazing lollipops created and founded by Brenda Swift. She offers one-of-a-kind collector’s candy that evoke a contemporary flair. The flavors range from espresso to pomegranate and so much more.  The designs are truly unique, and gluten-free and vegan choices are available. 560 Mineral Spring Ave #203, Pawtucket, 401-808-0651, popetteofpendulum.com

What a better way to say, ‘I love you’ than with collectable petite heart amulets? These handmade items can be found at Frog & Toad, and the distinctive red hearts will surely match anyone’s character. Frog & Toad also carries their very own greeting card line with clever sayings and styles that will align with any voguish personality. Go for it! 795 Hope St, PVD, 401-831-3434, frogandtoadstore.com

Looking for some Downcity art? Craftland carries over 120 artists’ work, 80% of which are local. For Valentine’s Day, they will host a trunk show from Saturday, February 11 until Monday, February 13.  Stop in an experience some fine talent and chat with the locals. 212 Westminster St, PVD, 401-272-4285, craftlandshop.com

Next door are two sister boutiques, Queen of Hearts and Modern Love. Theses shops are connected and carry local fine art.  The artwork varies in mediums from contemporary with hints of Rhode Island themes to abstract.  Fabulous! A must-have if you want to go for the urban downcity décor. 220 & 222 Westminster St, PVD, 401-421-1471, queenofheartsprovidence.com

Ted DiLuca is a contemporary artist with a Renaissance burst. His canvases speak from the seasoned masters but with an urban twist.  He has some special 21^st century St. Valentine’s Day paintings just for the occasion and takes on commission work by request. teddilucia.blogspot.com

Jewelry?  Ah yes, who doesn’t like the bling? The Attic Project, founded by Kacey Silvia, is so hip and whimsical that you need to begin your collection now! With her exclusive brass and organic styles mixed with crystals, I’m in love at first sight. She creates awe-inspiring pod and statement necklaces, rings, cuffs and earrings. Pawtucket, theatticproject@hotmail.com, squareup.com/store/theatticproject

Green River Silver Co. just released a one-of-a-kind heart necklace with matching earrings. Ruth Doran, the designer from northern Israel, crafted this set exclusively for Valentine’s Day. The craftsmanship is impeccable — so sophisticated and light. Visit any one of their three RI locations to collect your own personal set. 297 Hope St, Bristol, 401-253-5005, 735 Hope St, PVD, 401-621-9092, 83 Brown St, Wickford, 401-295-0086, greenriversilver.com

Talulah Cooper is a sophisticated jewelry boutique that carries brilliant jewelry and statement pieces. Haylee, the proprietor, is passionate about her collection and specializes in custom-made pieces for the right personality fit. Her collection carries many ‘love’-ly pieces for Valentine’s Day. 5 Traverse St, PVD, 401-273-4324, talulahcooperboutique.com

Let’s create some art together. Keep it Simple Grown Up Coloring Books and More by local artist Patty Martucci keeps one hand in the crayon box. Her coloring books are for designed for adults. Patty offers adult coloring night events with beverages and light snacks. Create your own work of art while relaxing and socializing in a pleasant setting. Check her Facebook page for upcoming events and Etsy for purchasing her coloring books. Find her on Etsy under: PJCollect and Facebook: Keep it Simple Grown Up Coloring Books and More, en-gb.facebook.com/groups/KeepItSimple15/permalink/1109238622486798/?comment_id=1109378409139486&comment_tracking=%7B%22tn%22%3A%22R%22%7D

Try your talent with a paintbrush and make art! Muse Paintbar has a whole host of events for the month of February. On the 14, you and your cupid can paint and sip beverages at one of their events. It’s fun and who knows — maybe you’ll be back for more. They also have couple’s weekend events and private parties upon request. 117 N. Main St, PVD, 401-764-3600, musepaintbar.com

And let’s not forget about the little cherubs. Henry Bear’s Park children’s store in Providence carries playful art supplies and creative works for that little Pooh Bear in your life. Storybooks and holiday kits are wonderful to add to the occasion. 736 Hope St, PVD, 401-351-5718, henrybear.com