An Art Gallery that sells Cannabis? How one Dispensary is Standing Out
2022 has been a tough year for a lot of cannabis brands. On the one hand, more markets than ever have opened.
But between inflation and taxation many are feeling the pinch.
That doesn’t mean it’s all doom and gloom, some brands are standing out, and they’re doing it by exploring those new markets and having a unique business model.
On the retail side, The Artist Tree just launched their fifth location and the first licensed cannabis dispensary in Fresno, California. From nearly 100 applicants for a retail cannabis permit, The Artist Tree emerged victorious to become the first dispensary to serve the community of the Golden State’s 5th largest city.
Think of them as an art gallery, one that just so happens to sell cannabis. The brand highlights the natural synergy between art and cannabis, seamlessly combining rotating displays of local art with high end retail shopping. It’s a truly unique way to appeal to customers.
So what was once a furniture store is now reimagined as a retail space that functions as an art gallery, educational space, and communal shopping destination.
Far from a faceless corporate cannabis entity, the new location is owned and operated in-part by Fresno locals that are as passionate about cannabis as they are about the city of Fresno. It is co-owned and operated by Fresno natives Lawrence Artenian and Clifford Tutelian in partnership with The Artist Tree team, Lauren Fontein, Aviv Halimi, Avi Kahan, Mitchell Kahan, and Courtney Caron (a former resident and Miss Fresno County).
Something by locals, for locals undoubtedly helps build trust within the community. It’s a tactic they’re doubling down on as the venue goes far beyond selling cannabis with plans to serve the city through community events, education, and perhaps most importantly, by fostering creativity.
“As the first cannabis retailer to open in Fresno, The Artist Tree is thrilled at the opportunity to set a new “higher” standard for cannabis through an innovative storefront that will truly reflect the Fresno community by highlighting local artists and serving as a safe community gathering space,” states Co-Founder Lauren Fontein.
Since opening in July, The Artist Tree in Fresno has already joined the long standing ArtHop as a regular destination for culture in the city and is a monthly ArtHop stop every third Thursday. The venue in Fresno showcases a wide array of local Fresno artists with rotating exhibits.
The inaugural exhibit features the works of Lance Anderson, Joan Sharma, Nicolas Rattaire, Joanna Chrys, and others. All proceeds from sales of the artwork will go directly to the artists. “Shopping with us is an immersive experience unlike anything in the world,” says Lauren Fontein, co-founder of The Artist Tree.
“The space will enhance your perception of the arts and change how you experience cannabis. Art of all kinds and the best cannabis product available are integrated with interactive educational hubs throughout the venue.”
Make no mistake though, The Artist Tree Fresno puts as much effort into curating its cannabis offerings and buying experience as it does its creative showcasing. With over 800 items, including vape cartridges, topicals, edibles, CBD wellness products, craft strains, premium concentrates and pre-rolls, there is something for everyone.
For any retail location, that should go without saying, but for one that hopes to last, becoming involved in the community and creating a unique shopping experience may just be the magic steps to growing in a competitive market.
