Art + Soul

Debbie Klein has a certain knack for discovering all things beautiful. Whether it’s creating a custom jewelry piece for clients or sourcing hand-dyed fiber from all over the world, she has always wanted to create spaces for art.

Debbie moved to Boulder in 1993 and began working for art galleries in the area. She quickly realized that there was a gap in the market for contemporary art. 

“In 2000, I decided to open a gallery with a contemporary edge. At the time, we represented primarily local artists, as well as a small selection of crafty jewelry,” said Debbie. “But we just kept evolving. I picked up a designer in Toronto who specialized in alternative bridal nontraditional engagement and wedding rings. From there, we really took off.”

Art + Soul still sells contemporary art pieces, but the store has shifted its focus to primarily handcrafted jewelry and alternative bridal rings. One of Art + Soul’s unique offerings is resetting stones into more updated pieces of jewelry. “We facilitate bringing in the designer to connect with the client and create something special.” 

For Debbie, the store has always grown with her. “Every day I fall more in love with sparkly things. This business has really developed into my personal passion.”

Debbie’s passions have prompted her most recent expansion of Art + Soul to carry hand-dyed and painted fiber. “I’m a pretty avid knitter, and I noticed there weren’t any yarn shops in Boulder. So I started working with designers - a women’s cooperative in Uruguay and South Africa, a family business in Peru - and have since brought gorgeous specialized yarn to the city. It’s amazing to be able to provide inspiration for people to be their own artists.”

In 2018, Art + Soul moved storefronts but remained on the East End. “I love downtown because it is the heart of the city. There is a vibrancy and energy to the space, and we have a great mix of loyal local customers and travelers from all over the world. It’s a really unique customer base.”

Debbie emphasizes the importance of shopping local to retain a vibrant community. “People should shop local as much as they possibly can because the tax money goes back into the local community. Supporting small businesses truly supports all of downtown Boulder.”

Along with shopping local, Debbie encourages individuals to positively engage with Art + Soul on social media (@artandsoulboulder) and stop by for trunk shows. “We host trunk shows almost every month, which is an amazing opportunity to meet creative people and artists.”

Some people are gifted with an eye for design and beauty, but anyone can be an artist. Stop by Art + Soul to see a wide range of art, jewelry and hand-dyed yarn, carefully selected by Debbie herself. And be sure to come by more than once because chances are, the store has evolved since you last visited.