Originalities

I was actually disappointed by Originalities on my visit yesterday.
I had been in the store previously (two or three years ago) and had remembered it having adorable art and gift items.
When we walked in yesterday we found everything in stock was hand made to the point of looking raggedy. I’m not a huge fan of «country» décor and didn’t expect to find it in the middle of Hyde Park square but that is exactly what seems to define Originalities.
One of the major displays was embroidered tea towels (Are you serious? I thought these only existed in Amish country).
There was also a display of 5×8 drawings of local landmarks and buildings, which were interesting, but not spectacular.
We walked out empty handed but I’m almost positive they rotate the artists they bring in so I may be back in a few months to check the store out again.

Originalities is such a cute little store in Hyde Park Square. One could spend an eternity in this store just trying to look at everything they have. It’s just packed! The store is an artists storefront featuring works from many local artists. Each artist has a section of the store where their wares are displayed. Similar in set up to vendor’s antique stores.
There are several collections by several different artists that are water color paintings of buildings. Most of them are local landmarks and churches. Some are foreign scenes and landmarks. The artists also take commissioned works, for example painting a portrait of your home or your local church.
Everything in this store is handmade. The selection really is endless. Some of the highlights are some cute hand painted gift pots you can fill with stuff or plants, tons of gorgeous handmade jewelry, purses (there were some made from old records and even kool-​aid pouches), housewares, children’s toys, and stuffed animals.
Originalities is really the perfect place to find a gift for someone, there is so much to choose from AND you will be supporting local artists!