By Dave Schwab

Copyright timesofsandiego

OCEAN BEACH – Little did Ocean Beach graphic artist Aaron Null realize that his search for office space during COVID would lead him to become a boutique owner celebrating local creativity, craftsmanship, and community.

Now, Vervor Shop at 4689 Voltaire St. is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a party on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. featuring a DJ, food, and drinks.

“Since we opened, we have grown from 40 to 365 local artists and makers,” said Null. “I found this space that was not really in the middle of the business district. But it was in a part of town I thought was pretty cool and walkable from my house.

“Then I thought, ‘Shouldn’t OB have an art store, a real art nexus that’s low barrier of entry?’ Weren’t there people here who were just doing their own creative thing? Of course there were, they’re in every nook and cranny.”

Null added that the character of Voltaire Street is gradually changing. “We’ve seen Voltaire go from a decidedly sleepy part of town to a revitalized and funky locals’ arts district of sorts,” he said. “So I said, ‘OK, we’ll just do consignment and see who comes along.’”

Inside and out, Vervor is a kaleidoscope of color, crafts, clothes, creation, and collaboration. On its website, the homegrown company notes it sells everything from handmade art and home décor to jewelry, ceramics, clothing, toys, and more.

“Every piece in our collection tells a story, reflecting the dedication and artistry of the hands that made it,” says Null in his promotional materials. “At Vervor Shop, we believe in the power of supporting small businesses and independent creators.”

Vervor Shop points out that every purchase helps sustain OB’s vibrant creative community, making a real difference in the lives of local artisans.

“Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift or a meaningful addition to your home, we have something special for everyone,” says Vervor’s website.

“More than just a store, Vervor Shop is a space to connect, explore, and appreciate the beauty of handmade craftsmanship.”

Null started out recruiting his artist friends and soliciting “anything different, eclectic, and colorful.”

Of his consignment business model, Null said: “I get a small percentage, and it’s meant to be very attractive for people to just come and try it out. A lot of artists have a hard time getting their work outside their studio, especially people who aren’t really professionals. They work on something they’re passionate about.

“But they’re either uncomfortable selling it, or they just don’t know how to do that. They’re artists, not business people. And what they need is an advocate, someone who’s interested in their work and will connect people with their story.”

Null confirms that he knows everyone who sells by consignment in his space, that he can tell you about every artist, where they came from, and something about what they’re selling.

“It’s (Vervor’s) not a gallery because it has all kinds of art,” pointed out Null.

Asked how many separate art items he has in Vervor, Null answered candidly, “I couldn’t even tell you. Some new artists keep coming, probably 10 just this month. There are always people getting into something and trying to close that loop, asking, ‘Does this sell? Is this something people want?’ How do I even gauge interest in it?”

Null envisions Vervor Shop as the beginning of something even more special. “The other thing we’re trying to do is turn this side of town into the arts district,” he said. “We want Voltaire to be the artsy side of town.”

Vervor Shop

Where: 4689 Voltaire St.

Hours: Mondays- Saturdays 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Contact: (484) 883-9476.