A Reimagined Home for Handmade Art
Founded by Carmen Smith Barkett, ArtsiPhartsi originally opened in 1991 and became a vibrant destination for fine, fun, and funky handcrafted art. After closing in 2007 to focus on family and community service, it triumphantly reopened in 2023 in a beautifully renovated 102-year-old bungalow at 4002 S MacDill Ave in South Tampa.
Inside, you’ll find a delightful collection of mosaics, ceramics, glass, jewelry, metals, furniture, and wall art—each piece radiating the energy and creativity of its maker.
Carmen curates with a heartfelt philosophy: she only selects pieces she’d want in her own home, ensuring every item is special—even if it’s not the most profitable approach.
Local Recognition: Tampa Bay Times “Best of the Best” Awards
ArtsiPhartsi has earned high praise in the Tampa Bay Times Best of the Best awards:
- 2023: Won in four categories — Best Gift Shop, Best Jewelry Store, Best Art Gallery, and Best Homegoods Boutique.
- 2024: Repeated that achievement, clinching the same four categories.
- 2025: Climbed even higher, capturing five awards — Best Gift Shop, Best Jewelry Store, Best Art Gallery, Best Homegoods Boutique, and Best Furniture.
These accolades are a testament to the gallery’s commitment to artistic quality and its beloved place in the local community.
Why ArtsiPhartsi Stands Out
- Handmade with Heart: Carpets, ceramics, mosaics, and furnishings that tell stories of creativity and craftsmanship.
- Curated by Passion: Carmen’s deeply personal approach to selecting every item brings authenticity and joy to the gallery.
- Rebirth and Revival: The beautifully restored space adds character and invites discovery—“you feel surrounded by friends” as one visitor put it.
- Consistent Community Acclaim: Earning “Best of the Best” back-to-back for multiple years—and expanding its honors—highlights the gallery’s evolving excellence.
