A Legacy of Creativity and Community: Hands Gallery

For more than three decades, Hands Gallery has been a constant in downtown San Luis Obispo. The store is an anchor for craftsmanship, creativity, and community. Founded 35 years ago by two couples who were designers and artisans themselves, the gallery was built on a clear and intentional vision: to create a contemporary craft gallery dedicated to three-dimensional art. From the beginning, Hands Gallery stood apart, focusing on sculptural, functional, and tactile works rather than traditional paintings or photography. That vision is still alive today, thanks to Sara Vaskov, who represents the next chapter in the gallery’s legacy.

Sara joined Hands Gallery more than 23 years ago, drawn to its dedication to artistry and thoughtful design. Nearly a decade ago, she officially became the owner, taking stewardship of a business that had already become a beloved part of downtown SLO’s creative community. Sara continues to keep the very soul of Hand’s Gallery alive by showcasing handmade goods created by artists and craftspeople from across the country. Every piece in Hands Gallery reflects the intention, quality, and human hands behind it. 

Over time, the gallery has evolved thoughtfully, responding to both economic realities and customer needs. One of the most significant shifts came in 2008, during the recession, when art sales slowed nationwide. This was the first time Hands Gallery seriously expanded its selection of high-end gifts. The shift helped sustain the business during a challenging period while staying true to its mission of showcasing exceptional craft. The balance between adaptability and integrity represents Sara’s exceptional leadership.

The continued success of Hands Gallery is now supported by a dynamic mother-daughter team. Sara’s daughter, Bailey, has stepped in as an essential part of the business, handling all merchandising as well as half of the buying. Her fresh perspective brings a younger eye to the gallery, helping it evolve while staying true to its roots. Sara often shares that she couldn’t do it without Bailey, and together they ensure Hand’s Gallery remains a place where craftsmanship, creativity, and tradition thrive.

As a local business owner, Sara knows what it takes to run a long-standing downtown business and her advice goes beyond inventory or finances. She speaks candidly about how all-consuming entrepreneurship can be, especially in the early years. Her guidance to new business owners centers on community: get involved, lean on fellow business owners, know your neighbors, and show up; not just for your store, but for your block and your town. Serving on boards, volunteering, and building real relationships can make all the difference.

That belief carried the business through the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like so many small businesses, Hands Gallery faced frightening unknowns, but what followed became Sara’s most meaningful moment as a business owner. The local community showed up in force, ordering gifts, supporting the shop, and reminding her just how deeply rooted Hands Gallery is in people’s lives. Sara and her husband personally delivered purchases across the Central Coast, an act that kept the business afloat and, just as importantly, kept her connected to her customers during a time of isolation.

“Tourists are great,” Sara reflects, “but the locals saved us during COVID and are the ones that continue to sustain our businesses.” Her appreciation for the downtown community runs deep. To her, Downtown SLO isn’t just a business district, it’s a family of owners and neighbors who continue to lift each other up.

After 35 years, Hands Gallery remains a testament to what’s possible when creativity, resilience, and community come together. Under Sara Vaskov’s care, it continues to honor its roots while looking ahead as a downtown SLO legacy business.

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