Favorite Accessories To Buy From Walker Shop

Art museums are one of my favorite places to shop for form meets function. While gift shops sell items relevant to current exhibits, there are a host of items ranging from books to toys and office stationery to handbags with huge gift potential.

Here is my pick list of accessories based on a recent visit to Walker Shop, nestled within the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis.

Proceeds from sales go towards the museum's artistic and educational programs.

Walker Art Center Shop

1750 Hennepin Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11 am–6 pm (Thursdays until 9pm)
Directory Listing

Tote bag, $128 -- This woven cotton bag is lightweight while feeling tough enough for a full load. The design including the 3-dimensional flowers brings a distinctive design quality that is a step up from a printed design. Feel pretty and practical with this leather-free piece.

Dopp Kit, $36 -- I'm not sure what caught my eye first - the generous size, the bold colors or the Cyrillic letters. Whatever the case, most men will appreciate a spacious dopp kit to hold the essential grooming items and protect everything else he packed. Added bonus: the vintage spirit of the design makes for a great conversation piece.

Blank Notebook, $9.95 -- Featuring the Pantone® color of the year, this notebook is perfect for the trend-sensitive creative type and/or self-appointed design geek. And in case you are wondering, I want one! This is a great way to add a pop of color to your night stand, home office or bring color to any meeting.

Folding Umbrella, $29.99 -- Lighten up a dreary day with a colorful umbrella that will stand out amongst all the black. Auto-open will make it easier when stepping into the rain and the folding style will fit in a bag. In my opinion, the more umbrellas the merrier to keep you from getting caught in a downpour of bad weather.

Compact Mirror, $9.95 -- With a design inspired by the Walker's expansion, the exclusive design on this lightweight aluminum compact is a piece of art. It has two mirrors inside, one slightly magnified and comes with a snug carrying case. "Walker Art Center" is engraved on the back. The price on this makes it a great one-for-me and one-for-you gift candidate.

Do you ever buy gifts or everyday items at gift shops? If so which ones?