Best new indie shops: Best for locally produced goods

Artisans from the five boroughs showcase their handiwork.

By Brianna Fay Mon Apr 11 2011

Best new indie shops 2011

  • Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

    Gesamtkunstwerk ("Werk")

    Gesamtkunstwerk ("Werk")

  • Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

    Werk founders Lucia Vera and Alexandra Kuzyk

    Werk founders Lucia Vera and Alexandra Kuzyk

  • Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

    Trashmour trash-bag necklaces, $60--$90, at Gesamtkunstwerk

    Trashmour trash-bag necklaces, $60--$90, at Gesamtkunstwerk

  • Creators' Co-Op

    Creators' Co-Op

  • Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

    RouDesigns salt and pepper shakers, two for $34, at Creators' Co-Op

    RouDesigns salt and pepper shakers, two for $34, at Creators' Co-Op

  • Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

    NixeNitz silver cut-shell pendant, $180, at Creators' Co-Op

    NixeNitz silver cut-shell pendant, $180, at Creators' Co-Op

Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

Gesamtkunstwerk ("Werk")

Gesamtkunstwerk ("Werk")

Winner: Gesamtkunstwerk (aka "Werk")
You may not be able to pronounce the name (it's "guess-amt--koonst-verk," which is German for "complete artwork"), but that won't stop you from marveling at the cutting-edge wares at this gallery. Cooper Union grads Alexandra Kuzyk and Lucia Vera debuted the store last year as a means to show off their conversationworthy jewelry, as well as projects from other local artisans. The friends cull everything from the practical—Marie Turnor's embossed leather card-holders ($60)—to the unexpected, including Vera's own line of plastic trash-bag necklaces ($60-$90). 9 Clinton St between E Houston and Stanton Sts (646-476-9100, cantspellit.com). Mention TONY at checkout to receive 15 percent off all purchases through May 1.

Runner-up: Creators' Co-Op
Owner and independent artist Kazuki Kozuru-Salifoska's shop nearly overflows with handmade curiosities by New York City and Connecticut designers. The artisan roster changes frequently, but typical offerings include greeting cards by Yoriko Shiraishi ($5 each), sterling silver jewelry by Caitlin Nitz (earrings $25, cuff bracelets $375) and pottery by RouDesigns ($20--$120). To get an even better idea of where the merch comes from, sign up for one of the regular, rotating arts-and-crafts workshops led by member artists (the fee vary from $8 per person drawing workshops to $250 for a five-session draping and sewing class)—a perk you definitely won't get with that item slapped with a made in china sticker. 26-16 23rd Ave between 26th and 27th Sts, Astoria, Queens (646-470-4728, creators-coop.com). Mention TONY to receive 15 percent off all purchases through May 1.

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