Art on the Columbia — Local services in Kennewick

On 7/3/2020, I entered Art on the Columbia LLC. The owner was in the store without a mask on even though there was a statewide order for workplaces that owners and employees had to wear a mask that was put into place on 6/8/2020. There are options for those working that cannot wear a mask, but none of those options include just not wearing one. The owner had 3 or more family members at the store, in from out of town for the 4th of July weekend according to the owner, to help move the store around. None of those family members who were doing work at the store were wearing masks. Myself and two other customers were in the store with masks on. The owner came from behind me to stand less than two feet in front of me to ask if I needed assistance. I moved back quickly, said no and left. I had an online conversation with the owner later and they, at first, apologized and said that everyone had just taken off their masks and that I caught them at a bad moment. I said that, if that was the case and they were following all state and health department guidelines, then that was great and I looked forward to shopping with them again. They then responded that they had done nothing wrong because they have a health condition that keeps them from wearing a mask and can, instead, just social distance in the store and will continue not be wearing a mask. They also accused me of trying to ruin their business. Due to both the unsafe environment I found myself in when I entered the store on 7/3 and the way in which the owner handled our conversation, I will not be shopping...

This is the only real Fine Arts store within 100 miles. The closest might be in Spokane. They sell premium artist quality brands such as M Graham Co watercolor, acrylics and oils. As an oil painter, I no longer have to get my supplies online. I would much rather support a local business than Amazon. Staff and owner are amazing, and they offer a wide range of classes. My picture is work I've done with their quality brands of paints, mediums...

What a great store! Lots to shop for, but I'm super excited that they have 3 big classrooms and have artists teach classes. I've been looking for a place like this that is a sort of hub for artists and crafters. There's a yarn half of the shop and a painting, drawing, and other art supply half. Just bought some oil painting supplies to try that out--they're even on sale for a few weeks now. So glad I saw their sign driving by on...