Retail Art Store Altamira Workshop To Open On 6th Avenue

Longtime friends and artists Philip Sachs and Amy Fierro are opening a new retail art store called Altamira Workshop on Saturday, November 15 at 217 6th Avenue, near the corner of Union Street.

Sachs tells us they chose the space, which will showcase not just their own art but also handmade items such as ceramics, jewelry, stationery, art, and home goods, because he feels a connection to and understanding of the area. He’s lived in South Slope for the past eight years, while Amy lives in Greenpoint.

“It really seems like the neighborhood to support us,” Sachs says. “This neighborhood supports artistic endeavors without being pigeonholed as a traditionally artistic enclave. I think the style of items and ideas we have are a good fit for the residents here.”

After several years selling at markets and online — the pair have worked on textile designs for CB2, sold art at the Brooklyn Flea, and held printmaking classes in Brooklyn, among other things — they’ll be opening the brick and mortar space to help develop new ideas and meet with new clients and neighbors.

In addition to selling art that they and others — many from Brooklyn — have made, they’ll also be available to advise individuals and businesses interested in creating unique, hand-printed items, offering design and print consultation at their on-site print shop.

“We really wanted a place where we could introduce printmaking and other art forms to our neighbors who had an interest, but not necessarily the access to supplies and proper guidance,” Sachs says.

They’re still working on the space but will open next weekend, with plenty of shopping time before the holidays. They’re still deciding on hours, but they are planning on being open 11am-7pm through December, closed Mondays.