Meet A Proprietor: Nancy Markoe of Nancy Markoe Gallery

For over 26 years, Nancy Markoe has been a firm supporter of the "American creative economy."

At the Nancy Markoe Fine American Crafts Gallery in St. Pete Beach, Markoe is proud of the limited number of artists in her shop. She keeps it to a few hundred, with each one from the United States.

That may sound like a lot, but with each item handcrafted and distinctive, it makes for a unique collection of beautiful and functional art. Exceptional pieces, including glasswork, wood, pottery and jewelry fill the walls at her gallery on Pass-A-Grille Way, which sits in the shadow of the Don Cesar hotel.

She limits the artists she carries to only those with an artisan's degree, as well as a few other factors.

"There are three qualities I look for," says Markoe. "Beauty, quality and a reasonable price."

Why price? Markoe believes that everybody should have the chance to enjoy art for him or herself. That is why she carries artwork for every price range, from a few dollars on up.

"What I carry is created as art, and is used for living," she says. ""You can become a collector with a coffee cup."

As you walk around the gallery, you can see so much more than simply coffee cups. There is an excellent selection of intricate, decorative and functional paper, wood products and pottery. The emphasis on pottery is no surprise, since Markoe was a professional potter for 12 years.

"I understand what it takes," she says. "Two potters I know have recently closed shop. They have been hit hard. It's been sad."

The economy has been "challenging" artists in the United States. However, Markoe believes that tough times make it even more crucial to support domestic creativity. She bristles at the notion of lower-quality items from overseas.

"My belief is that you can find anything at any price in America," she says. "For the best quality, it is important to spend money in America."

"People still make things in America," Markoe added.

Markoe is exploring e-commerce through her website, saying it will be active soon. Until then, you can visit her large selection of beautifully functional art at 3112 Pass-A-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach.

The gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

More information about the Nancy Markoe Gallery can also found through either www.nancymarkoegallery.com, on Facebook or by calling (727) 360-0729.