Art in Russian Hill

Art and jewelry gallery, Velvet Da Vinci has been open since 1991. About five years ago, the shop migrated from Hayes Valley to Polk St. Owner Elizabeth Shypertt prides herself on acquiring one of a kind pieces from artists.

Shypertt has been an art enthusiast ever since high school. Although she used to design jewelry she now focuses on managing the store and choosing what pieces she likes and thinks will sell.

“Our pieces come from all over the world. We have some pieces from local artists, some from national artists and some from international artists,” says Shypertt.

You can’t find anything at Velvet Da Vinci that is massed produced. Shypertt says this has helped business because it attracts a crowd that wants something unique.

“We have a relationship with every artist that we sell. They know what we like and what can sell and we work with them to get the mix we want,” Shyperrt explains.

Shyperrt says she enjoys working with individual artists because she likes supporting individuals instead of big companies. She says she can find more unique pieces from individual artists. She explains that having a large network of artists to choose from is a key to her success.

“There is a very specific style to the jewelry and not everyone likes it. However, the people who get it really get it,” says Shypertt.

The people who do get it are willing to spend $50 to $5,000 on a single piece of art or jewelry. “Every piece is unique and there are some limited edition pieces,” says Shypertt.

Shyperrt says the store is doing very well even though the economy isn’t. She just signed a lease to keep Velvet Da Vinci open for another five years. “We will be open for at least five more years,” says Shypertt.
Velvet Da Vinci
2015 Polk St.
415-441-0109
www.VelvetDaVinci.com
Hours: Monday - Saturday: 11 - 6
Sunday: 11 - 5