Beyond the Fog: Accident & Artifact

Accident and Artifact is a gem of a store hidden within busy Valencia street in the Mission. As soon as I walked in I felt like I was in a friend's eclectic apartment, with every corner filled with special treasures with it's own unique history. The owner, Martin Holden, buys, collects, consigns, and scavenges each unique piece in his store. Incense burns on the piano in the middle of the store- which was Martin's old roommates grand piano and is the only thing that is not for sale- and old studio lights illuminate the corners of the store, creating an eerie and claustrophobic (in a good way) atmosphere.

My favorite thing about the place is that every couple of months there is an art show to highlight the new pieces hanging on their walls. When I went in there was artwork created by artists from Creativity Explored, a nonprofit visual arts center where artists with developmental disabilities create and sell art. Each piece of artwork was beautiful crafted and portrayed a unique expression by each artist. Needless to say it was a treat to be able to experience the gallery and one-of-a-kind store in person.