Shop Stop: Palm Canyon Galleria

Outside and in

My all-time favorite shopping venue in Palm Springs is Palm Canyon Galleria. The small shopping complex touts itself as containing “vintage mid-century shops with 10 points of view”, but I think that may be an underestimation. There seem to be dozens of points of view represented by an amazing number of objects in diverse materials and mediums. Fans of almost every modernist movement will find that piece to either set-off, or lend a focal point to, a decorating scheme. Let’s start off outside  …

In the courtyard

The Galleria is the lower floor of a two-story building with a central walkway dividing the shops on either side. The walkway is not left out as a display area and there’s lots to look at and love, most of it suitable for outdoor use. The Galleria is one of those shopping destinations that requires a large block of time for browsing — you couldn’t possibly see everything they have to offer in a short amount of time!

Art outside

Depending on the shop, you can see modernist planters that would fit right in with the Rat Pack style of the 1950s, classic French garden accessories, rustic antlers and pots, modern sculptural elements using metal and candy-colored tile, colored glass bottles and many different styles of pots. Eclectic, much? You’ll find everything you need to layer and mix to your heart’s content.

Décor galore

Moving inside the shops you’ll have to try not to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of objéts on display. My favorite items were the folk art-y and art brut sculptures and accessories. Primitive items share air space with pop art and classic items; 60s space-age metal sits within earshot of  50s kitsch; the shiny and reflective gazes lovingly upon the rough and bothered; it’s a lot to take in! But it’s fun and inspiring, and a great way to see things you would normally have to travel to several different shops to enjoy. Many of the pieces are signed and by important artists (especially gorgeous gallery-worthy paintings), so prices can be way out of reach for a normal guy like myself … this is not a bargain trip. But, for a splurge, or for maybe an unusual gift for a special someone, it’s a perfect shopping venue. Do like we did: have lunch (and a Bloody Mary) and then wander from shop to shop, then through again, then again … and take it all in. You might be surprised at what catches your eye and imagination!

Palm Canyon Galleria is at 457 North Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs CA, 92262. Click this link for further info and shop phone numbers.