New Art Supply Store to Open in Asheville

News Summary

Following the closure of Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff, local business Philip DeAngelo Studio will take over the Asheville location to open Asheville Art Supply. The store aims to support local artists and preserve the spirit of the local arts community. Although some products may differ, the existing staff and community-focused atmosphere will remain. The new store is set to open by July 4, creating optimism amidst recent challenges faced by the local arts scene.

Asheville – Following the recent closure of Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff, a long-standing art supply store that served as Asheville’s only dedicated supplier, local business Philip DeAngelo Studio is set to take over the Asheville location. The new store will operate under the name Asheville Art Supply and aims to keep the vibrant spirit of the local art community alive.

Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff, which announced its closure on March 21, 2025, attributed its decision to ongoing economic challenges within the arts industry. The store, which had three locations, succumbed to financial strain after 40 years of service, affecting local artists who relied on it for their supplies. With the closure of this beloved institution, many community members expressed concern about the future of the local arts scene.

In an effort to mitigate the impact of the closure, Philip and Tina DeAngelo, who have been integral members of the River Arts District for nearly two decades, have stepped in to acquire the Asheville location. The DeAngelos’ decision was driven by their passion for art and commitment to the local community. They aim to foster the same welcoming environment that patrons enjoyed at Cheap Joe’s, while ensuring that essential art supplies continue to be accessible to local artists.

A video posted by the DeAngelos on social media announced the transition, reassuring community members that although the store will undergo a name change, the existing staff and community-focused atmosphere will remain intact. This continuity is intended to uphold the connection between the store and its customers, who have become accustomed to the personalized service offered at Cheap Joe’s.

As Asheville Art Supply prepares to open its doors, the DeAngelos have indicated that some unique brands previously offered by Cheap Joe’s may not be available. As a result, customers are encouraged to stock up on supplies before the transition is complete, ensuring they have access to the materials they need for their projects. The DeAngelos plan to officially open Asheville Art Supply by July 4, 2025, ushering in a new chapter in the city’s vibrant art supply industry.

Impact on the Local Arts Community

The closure of Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff has sent ripples through Asheville’s arts community, known for its creativity and rich artistic culture. Local artists and art enthusiasts expressed concern about losing a beloved resource that has fueled their creativity and provided essential supplies for many years. The DeAngelos’ commitment to continuing art supply services is seen as a hopeful sign for the community.

A Brief History of Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff

Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff started as a modest corner in a drugstore and expanded over the decades to become a significant player in the art supplies market. Its 40-year legacy handcrafted the identity of local artists, offering a wide selection of materials that supported both amateur and professional creatives. With its closure, the local arts community has faced challenges, especially following other significant retail closures in the sector.

Looking Forward

As the DeAngelos prepare for the opening of Asheville Art Supply, they envision a store tailored to the needs of local artists while fostering creativity and collaboration in the community. The couple’s hands-on approach, coupled with their intimate understanding of the local art scene, positions them well to revitalize the Asheville art supply experience. By continuing to offer critical supplies and support local talent, Asheville Art Supply aims to become a new cornerstone for the city’s artistic endeavors.

In a time of transition for local art resources, the establishment of Asheville Art Supply offers a glimmer of optimism amid the recent economic turbulence within the industry.

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Additional Resources

• WLOS: Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff Going Out of Business
• Charlotte Observer: Development Updates
• WCNC: Cheap Joe’s Closing News
• Hyperallergic: Hurricane Helene Damage
• Google Search: Asheville Art Supply