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Adel Chefridi

Featured Article

Shine Bright with Art + Soul, 25 Years in the Making

Article by Avery Young

Photography by Craig Pratt

Originally published in Boulder Lifestyle

In the heart of downtown Boulder is a designer jewelry gallery, curated and operated by Debbie Klein. For 25 years, Art + Soul has helped adorn a wide array of customers with pieces crafted from across the globe. Focused on small, precious things that make a big impact, Debbie takes pride in her business and what it stands for: “We focus on jewelry artists from around the world, sourcing from smaller, artisanal workshops where each piece is handmade and production is limited. This means many of our items are truly one of a kind. My team and I carefully curate our collection to be exclusive to Boulder, selecting designers whose styles both contrast and complement one another”.

Embodying the atmosphere of a traditional gallery while showcasing jewelry instead of paintings, Art + Soul is an artistic expression in its own right. The space, design, pieces, and warm environment are extensions of the love, care, craft, and inclusivity Art + Soul values so deeply. Debbie echoes this by saying, “We have a core group of artists, some of whom we have been partnering with for over 20 years, but rotate others on a regular basis in order to bring fresh and new work to our clients. Another fact I am very proud of is that the majority of the designers we represent are women. True talent rises!”

Creating space for artists, business leaders, and women is an important factor for both Debbie and Art + Soul as a whole. She hopes to provide a bigger platform for all women and continues to prioritize uplifting others in both her personal and professional life. “Traditionally, the jewelry industry has been male-dominated like so many others, but I was very lucky to meet a few women early on who wanted to help and support my vision,” explains Debbie. “They educated me, inspired me, and gave me guidance in a nurturing and respectful way. I will always be grateful for these women who have become lifelong friends. Twenty-five years later, I am honored to often find myself on the other side of this type of relationship, where I can help to advise and mentor new designers and business owners.” Debbie also participates in many industry shows with mentorship programs for those who have traditionally dealt with inequity in the industry to help them foster new skills and gain greater traction in the field.

Art + Soul aims to build confidence within their customers and help them express themselves through jewelry. The process of finding the right piece is completely tailored to the individual, and Debbie and her expert staff work hands-on with designers and customers to create the perfect necklace, ring, or bracelet. “We can source a special stone, work on resetting an existing stone, or get in a sample that comes to life in person,” adds Debbie. Art + Soul also has frequent trunk shows, an opportune time to display special collections from the gallery’s designers. “Many of our artists join us at events, giving our clients the chance to connect with them directly. This personal interaction turns choosing a piece into a special memory. Purchasing jewelry should always be a meaningful moment.”

To learn more about Art + Soul, visit ArtAndSoulBoulder.com

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