Matthew Johnson is the new director of The Walker Shop for the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, MN. The Walker Shop offers a unique assortment of award-winning contemporary home and office accessories; artisan jewelry; books about multidisciplinary contemporary art, design, and culture; creative toys; and exclusive Walker products. He has been a privately commissioned painter for various clients and was a featured pet portraitist in Boston Magazine’s “Ultimate Guide to Pampering your Pets.” From 2005-2010, he was the Director of risd |works, an innovative hybrid in the form of a retail store, gallery and design showroom that features an annual collection and changing exhibitions of work by Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) renowned alumni and faculty in a variety of media.
In September, my dog Bernie and I moved back home to the Midwest. I actually teared up as I drove through the flatter parts of Ohio. By the time I reached Illinois, the smells made me think of my childhood, my family and all that is dear to me. When I reached Minnesota, I felt I was home. Don’t get me wrong, I loved living on the East Coast for the past ten years. I loved my job, my friends and all of the opportunities given to me while working for RISD. But there’s no place like home and I feel grateful to be back in the Midwest to start my new career at the Walker Art Center. I was honored when asked to be a guest curator for Etsy and immediately knew I wanted to assemble a collection of Minnesotan Etsians.
This stunning Illustration by quantumbill reminds me of my recent journey — bridging my past with my future. The Irene Hixon Whitney Bridge by Siah Armajani is an iconic part of the Minneapolis Sculpture garden, a collaboration between the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board. I can see the real thing from the front door of my new apartment.
These small tumblers by utilemud are unapologetically simple and honest. They are perfect for all of the hot beverages I’ll need during my first Minnesota winter. Also, I will be happy as a yeti if our winter is as beautiful as Tree Line Study by robergliden.
Repurposing is my favorite form of recycling and this Illinois vintage puzzle pin by MichelleAndHerDog honors my home state. I also love how Maverickjune has referenced one of my favorite phrases on this recycled felt applique pillow.
Reflecting Frida’s private obsessions as boldly as she did, dwitt75′s skill captured my attention at first glance. The Victorian inspired Rabbit Girl and Wolf Boy cuff by uniqueartpendants is similarly bold and beautiful, mixed with a playful nostalgia.
Please allow me to be as straightforward as I can on this print on canvas by Locality: I love typography!
Block Bot by williamdohman makes me very happy. Isn’t it amazing how so much emotion is created from blocks of wood, rope, two blue circles and a blue line? The embroidered pendant necklace by septemberhouse makes me want to make things. It’s intimate, precious, and a keepsake.
I want to thank lilfishstudios for creating this type of artwork. We currently carry these little fungi terrariums in the Walker Shop. Your cabinet of curiosities needs one!
The Golden Bent Ring by willaburk (left) reminds me of my favorite minimalist sculptor, Richard Serra. It’s so architectural that I want to crawl inside. I also love the living jewelry created by AdornJewelry. It looks just like the the grass circles imbedded in the concrete walkways in front of the Walker Art Center.
I am in love with the idea of a souvenir — a keepsake to bring home for the memories associated with it. These mini Polaroid magnets by paintedfishstudio remind me to hold on to the things I love and remember all of the wonderful experiences I’ve had.
120 comments
Sign in to add your ownColettesboutique says:
Wow! so many great picks. I love the wool terrarium... they are just too cute!
1 year ago
CountryChicCottage says:
Wow!! What a collection!! Love that terrarium!!
1 year ago
sewnewthings says:
That vintage puzzle is DIVINE!!!
1 year ago
CatherinetteRings says:
Awesome !
1 year ago
ikabags says:
Formidable ! Thanks !
1 year ago
myvintagecrush says:
That grass ring is too cool!
1 year ago
TwinkleStarCrafts says:
Incredible! Thank you.
1 year ago
Pinkpjs says:
The terrarium is fantastic!
1 year ago
BelieveJewelrySupply says:
As an Etsy member from Minneapolis myself, I appreciate your article!! You have an amazing job working at the Walker! I love your Etsy picks, very unique!!
1 year ago
VivaGailBeads says:
wonderful article! thanks.
1 year ago
SGArtandFashion says:
Such interesting picks...and the grass ring is utterly intriguing! Thanks for sharing all!
1 year ago
MargauxStudio says:
I loved these features! Great to see someone with such a fantastic eye! bravo all the way!
1 year ago
jesseBYAH says:
Give it up for Minnesota! I need to visit the Walker soon. It has been too long. Thanks for this story, makes me proud to be a Minnesotan! Even though it's cold and disgusting out today, lol!
1 year ago
lauraprentice says:
Hooray for Minnesota!!! I recently returned home to Minneapolis and am appreciating home all over again. Welcome back! Ooffda, Youbetcha!
1 year ago
NutfieldWeaver says:
The Walker is one of many treasures in Minneapolis. Makes me want to go back & visit one of my many former homes. :)
1 year ago
shopdomestica says:
This is probably the best curated treasury this year - loved everything for it's simple and thoughtful elegance - great job! Love MN peeps!
1 year ago
AZCreativeStudio says:
Beautiful picks!!!
1 year ago
Krystyna81 says:
I like your selections and your references to some incredible Artists. I'd love to see the fabulous 2D Art on Etsy celebrated in it's wonderous diversity.
1 year ago
minouette says:
Wonderful selection! Several were on my favorites - thanks for introducing the others to me.
1 year ago
yaelfran says:
Terrific taste!!!
1 year ago
JulieMeyer says:
My husband and I had our first date at the Walker, and we got married next to the big glass fish in the sculpture garden 13 years ago. It was a lovely day and fun to take pics amongst all the great sculptures!
1 year ago
Mclovebuddy says:
love this! walker is one of my all time favorite contemporary museums.
1 year ago
Crafterall says:
A delicious cut of gorgeous Minnesota work, including many of my own faves: dwitt75, utilemud, and AdornJewelry to name few. Welcome to MN, Matthew!
1 year ago
KettleConfections says:
Just checked out the website of the walker shop: http://shop.walkerart.org/ Really like the selection of neat & interesting items there- bookmarking on my browser for future gift purchases!
1 year ago
polkadotmagpie says:
Love this Museum! It's where "Birds in Art" is exhibited every year. Great print.
1 year ago
dkalvarez says:
so many great and unique ideas in the featured listings.
1 year ago
maggiemaevintage says:
wonderful!
1 year ago
rarebeasts says:
Looks like a great place. That terrarium is cool.
1 year ago
jamieribisi says:
Wonderful picks from a wonderful museum!
1 year ago
VintageValleyGirl says:
Great picks from the land of ten thousand lakes and talents!
1 year ago
jewelrybyjackie says:
Awesome finds from Matthew! Thanks!
1 year ago
studioku says:
I would definitely go check out there when I go to Minneapolis next time!
1 year ago
choisette says:
the golden bent ring is almost too gorgeous to wear.
1 year ago
MarvelousMelissa says:
As a Duluthian, it is great to see the Minnesota creative community featured on Etsy.
1 year ago
theroyal says:
i like the mushrooms and the polaroids, cause they are cute.
1 year ago
Earleyimages says:
This is great.
1 year ago
mikelange3 says:
very nice form mn like to see the art center when I go fishing in walker next spring
1 year ago
CositasSeriasVintage says:
LOVE this article!
1 year ago
CositasSeriasVintage says:
LOVE this article!
1 year ago
decembermoondesign says:
Mr Johnson..The photo of the Walker building coupled with your impressive resume' had me expecting something different...you totally fooled me. I absolutely love this article Matt..let Bernie know his master rocks!
1 year ago
pickleberries says:
Waving from the Bryn Mawr neighborhood on the other side of 394. Welcome to MPLS!
1 year ago
ArgyleSt says:
I'm so impressed that Etsy is getting people like this to be part of the Etsy experience. Thanks!
1 year ago
breadandroses2 says:
The Midwest is a very cool place to live. Glad you've gotten back to your roots! Congrats.
1 year ago
lilfishstudios says:
What an absolute pleasure to be included in your round-up, Matthew. I'm a transplanted Illinoisan myself, but I now proudly call MN my home. (though I was calling it other things with this morning's snow....) Thank you, and the best to you in your new position at the Walker.
1 year ago
hans1247 says:
I am an even more proud Walker member and citizen of Minneapolis and Etsy. Great work! Come to Minneapolis, everyone!
1 year ago
ARTLUX says:
Thank you for the great article! I receive so much inspiration from the etsy experience...
1 year ago
bionicunicorn says:
Hello from South Minneapolis! I'm so excited to see this feature.
1 year ago
CindyLindgren says:
The Twin Cities is a living art museum with diverse artisans and a population that supports and appreciates them. There's no place like it.
1 year ago
sacredsuds says:
Oh wow! I just relocated to St. Paul in the last year, and I've been dying to get over to the Walker. Now I'm definitely going to have to go! Wonderful article!
1 year ago
fromoutofthecracks says:
Fun read, the Twin Cites does support the arts, hello from Minneapolis!
1 year ago
sweetjane says:
Great article, everything was picked out with thoughtful meaning behind it. Vey nice.
1 year ago
mydogandi says:
I was so proud to see the Walker Art Center there- not only do I live near there, I am a member! So surprised to see it on etsy :) Love this article.
1 year ago
CustomDogBandanas says:
Very neat vintage puzzle!
1 year ago
cayennepeppy says:
Minnesota has a great artist community!!
1 year ago
ragsbysockmonkey says:
MN pride! I don't currently live there but I miss it every day, even when it snows :). Thanks for showcasing all of these lovely MN artists. I know it's not the biggest city ever, but it's a city with a lot of heart and lots of love for the arts. I'll be back soon, Walker Arts Center!
1 year ago
MaryFosterCreative says:
Welcome to Minnesota and thank you for this thoughtful article highlighting some of our talented artisans!
1 year ago
gretchenmist says:
wow, such gorgeous finds ~ beautiful style :)
1 year ago
paintedfishstudio says:
it's a huge honor to have my minneapolis polaroid magnets featured amongst all these great artists!
1 year ago
MysticLily says:
I'm a Etsian from Minneapolis! What a nice surprise to find this article and collection from my hometown! Here's a tip - don't miss the 2010 British TV Advertising Awards film - at the Walker from 3 Dec to 2 Jan. It is an annual favorite of mine!
1 year ago
sighfoo says:
wonderful picks! i love the tree line study. so quiet and beautiful.
1 year ago
rainydayyarnshop says:
Great article. Thanks for highlighting the Walker and some wonderful MN artists!
1 year ago
rockfabricscissors says:
Welcome back to MN! Lots of Etsians in MN and western Wisc. And I love listening to the Current 89.3, big mover in up to the minute music.
1 year ago
KMalinka says:
Wonderful finds and design!
1 year ago
Steampunkitis says:
Very nice.
1 year ago
Jusadreamin says:
GREAT thanks for sharing, hope you much sucess
1 year ago
rozzie says:
Already have some favourites in here. Thanks for sharing yours.
1 year ago
ReDFindz says:
Very nice. Art is a wonderful Freedom
1 year ago
LavenderField says:
Fantastic collection, and congratulations on your new career!!
1 year ago
frenchtoastfriday says:
Love the canvas print.
1 year ago
Tiques says:
What an amazing and very thoughtful collection. My boyfriend and I were able to visit the Walker this past June and it was absolutely stunning. The architecture, work and store were fun, thought provoking and exciting all rolled into one!
1 year ago
pasinwedding says:
Gorgeous work
1 year ago
ArcSquare says:
Block Bot makes me smile:))). Thanks for this article.
1 year ago
blueroompottery says:
I loved the Walker from the moment I moved here almost 16 years ago from Greece. It was a breath of fresh air and reminded me of Europe. Congratulations on your new position, and welcome back home! It's such a nice place to call home!
1 year ago
audreytolove says:
very nice. good collection!
1 year ago
redemptionart says:
Man alive! Great post, artsy and emotional, I can so identify coming home again, yet treasuring the journey. Love the cuff. Thanks for this tour.
1 year ago
cruz55 says:
Hello friends,this is alex.......i m new to this site. ========= Rhinestone Iron
1 year ago
andrea0503 says:
WOW! these are some best picks so far!
1 year ago
2007musarra says:
Home, it is where the heart is. That's why I never left. Congrats to you and your new post. Thanks so much for sharing the great mix of craftists
1 year ago
puddlecraft says:
Beautiful collection of items. Poor Block bot, he looks so sad.
1 year ago
ByronMorrisArt says:
You Old Romantic You!
1 year ago
kimmchi says:
wow great selections!
1 year ago
ObeliskFiberArts says:
What a delightful surprise to see the Walker on Etsy!
1 year ago
PipingHotPapers says:
Very cool article!
1 year ago
TulleMeAboutIt says:
Great picks! I love the Block Bot.
1 year ago
zaperoco says:
the robot is so cute.
1 year ago
DalkullanJewelry says:
The necklace with the embroidered flower is so pretty!
1 year ago
thestapeliacompany says:
I love these. That Frida piece is really nice.
1 year ago
Mochaware says:
Very, very nice collection.
1 year ago
SylviaJanssen says:
Great art!
1 year ago
jstephens13 says:
You'll soon be swapping the Illinois pin for a MInnesota one. There's nothing like the Twin Cities, possibly the largest small town. I've spent my life trying to leave them behind while always getting sucked back in and further intrigued in the local art culture. Must be something in the water. Thanks for representing the Walker, the first museum to really inspire me! Jen Saint Paul, MN
1 year ago
WilliamDohman says:
I sure love me some typography!
1 year ago
mbaune55 says:
HOME. Thanks for pointing out all these great MPS pieces. Great gifts, but I want them all for myself!
1 year ago
katrinshine says:
Great colection! Love the embroidered pendant! So romantic
1 year ago
rebeccasanchez says:
Such cool stuff! Love the Frida!
1 year ago
cholulajewelry says:
MN represent! <3 Minne & its artists. Welcome home!
1 year ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Some adorable picks here love the wooden robot. Hope you settle into your new home quickly!
1 year ago
RamshackleStudio says:
There is no place quite like the land of 10,000 lakes...and the Walker is one of my favorite things there! LOVE the bridge illustration! Thanks for taking me on a stroll through my home state - I live in Nebraska now, but will always consider myself a Minnesotan. Amber
1 year ago
WalterSilva says:
Rhode Island will miss you! Best of luck to you on your new adventures... Great eye and taste!
1 year ago
julessabjewelry says:
I love this article... design should have been my major!
1 year ago
bodicegoddess says:
Wonderful. I was going to jump on the comments and say that I'd bursting with local pride right now, but I burst even more when I saw all the Etsians from the area who got to the commenting before me! I'm a huge fan of the embroidered pendant - I'll have to keep an eye out for those.
1 year ago
pollysyardart says:
very nice, some great ideas!
1 year ago
mishmishmarket says:
I just saw painted fish studio magnets in the twin cities and loved them! Great post. and great collection of goodies.
1 year ago
deepfried says:
Very cool. Will have to see the Walker one day! That ring is amazing.
1 year ago
odiliafu says:
Very nice selection!
1 year ago
maverickjune says:
Wow...SO proud to be part of this Minnesota-based collection! Such fun stuff- living jewelry? How fun is that?! Also love that canvas print and Block Bot. Minnesota you never fail to inspire! Best of luck with the new gig Matthew (and Bernie!)!
1 year ago
empressjade says:
thoughtful and unconventional choices. thank-you
1 year ago
ohbuckets says:
lovely assortment of featured items, Matthew! welcome back to Minnesota!
1 year ago
sbmathieu says:
Great job Matt! Good Luck in MN!
1 year ago
recycledwares says:
Yeah for MN. You have picked some lovely items. Makes me miss my home up north, Michigan, especially the Tree Line Study.
1 year ago
GalleonGal says:
lots of interesting artwork nice article
1 year ago
wynzia says:
So fun seeing the works of fellow Minnesotans (come-heres and been-heres...adore you all). Makes me thankful to my mom for taking me to the Walker as a kiddo in the 70's. Such a wonderful place.
1 year ago
charcoaldesigns says:
Yay! I was Cleopatra two years ago on my wedding night (Halloween '08) and Liz Taylor was my inspiration then! Luv her!
1 year ago
charcoaldesigns says:
oopps commented on the wrong thread. teehee. :]
1 year ago
regansbrain says:
yea mpls! I love this city. What a great collection!
1 year ago
robertglieden says:
Thank you for your kind words and the mention. Very glad to be a part of this. Upmost appreciation, Robert Glieden
1 year ago
DevineCollectible says:
Real nice, totally enjoyable vision for my eyes! Wow peace
1 year ago
arsniccandy says:
Me want a cute terrarium!!:)
1 year ago
NaomiBroudo says:
I really like the idea of a gallery taking interest in etsy.
1 year ago
agatsijoias says:
Living jewelry, how remarkable is that!?!http://www.agatsijoias.etsy.com
1 year ago
KiwiStudioJewelry says:
Makes me homesick - thank you for doing this!
1 year ago