Freehand is for Aritst

I took my first trip into Fishtown this week since moving to Philadelphia a little under a

year ago. I took the 23 bus from Germantown to Northern Liberties and then the G1 the rest of

the way. When I got to the G stop, I realized that I had never noticed how different that area of

Philadelphia felt. Lots of open space and three lane roads; I couldn't help but compare it to a

beachtown. The rest of my ride was short, but so full of life. Lots of small family owned

restaurants lined the streets, and people were out talking to each other while enjoying the

sunshine.

Before I knew it I was in Fishtown, and it didn't take long for me to notice that I had

stumbled upon a lovely hub of small businesses. I explored an independent bookstore with

thought provoking finds, a coffee shop littered with plants and vintage record sheets plastered to

the walls, a thrift store with fish art and handmade Phillies sweaters, a fiber arts store with

materials hand dyed with plant fibers, a beautiful plant store with disco ball pots, and a

montessori school wedged between it all. All of the street lamps were littered with stickers, art,

and posters of events past and happening soon.

Located on 308 E Girard Ave was my favorite store of the day: Freehand Art Supply.

When I opened the door I was greeted by the sound of lovely shop bells and Harvest Moon by

Neil Young playing over their speakers. The atmosphere was calming with light pink and green

painted walls. I was greeted by one of the owners Kim Quinn and she told me that the store had

opened just three months ago. Even with their short time being open, I could tell that a lot of

thought and effort had gone into the curation of this shop.

There were zines to my left, most made by local creators as well as coloring books, and

stories of famous artists. I found myself smiling and looking through mini notebooks that

encouraged the users to explore and make believe, puzzles, paint by number, and books teaching

you how to recreate simple 15 minute drawings.

Not only do they offer supplies for seasoned artists, but they also had an area for young

artists to enjoy which included childrens aprons, cardboard construction sets, and bath crayons.

They had an impressive selection of painting supplies including brushes, rolled canvas, acrylic,

gouache, and most excitingly, handmade watercolor. There was a section for block printing with

different colored inks, pads, and carving tools.

Towards the back of the store there was a table to test out some of their supplies before

buying them right next to a mini gallery showcasing works by local talent for sale. Anyone

interested in submitting their work can head to their website and fill out a submission form to be

considered.

Upon speaking to the owner, she told me that her business partner Russel Edling and

herself are very centered around community building and making art accessible to all which

became clear in their reasonable price points. “Meeting people has been the most fun,” said Kim.

Freehand will soon be offering art classes and they currently host an art club each Thursday that

offers light refreshments in a space where people can bring their own crafts to work on and meet

other creatives. The store also offers a supply exchange where customers can bring in supplies

they no longer use and trade for items donated by others.

After leaving Freehand Art Supply, I found myself already thinking about my next visit. I

would personally recommend this shop to anyone in the area looking to add to their collection or

browse the lovely selection of items they offer. This store is tiny but mighty and has lots of

exciting things to come; I would urge anyone interested in art to keep an eye on their Instagram

@freehand.supply for any updates from the owners of any new and upcoming items or events.