10 Fun Facts to Know About Cheap Joe’s

Ever wondered what makes Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff such a special place for artists? Let’s take a little trip behind the scenes and get to know our company, its quirky beginnings, and the creative, art-loving people who make it all happen!

Where It All Began: Boone Drug

black and white vintage store logo reads "Boone Drug, Inc. The Biggest Little Chain in Town."

  1. A Humble Beginning Among Aspirin Bottles
    Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff started over 35 years ago in Boone, North Carolina, right inside the Boone Drug store. Joe Miller himself recalls stocking art supplies on a shelf between the aspirin and Ex-Lax. Turns out, this “prime” spot gave artists just the relief they needed! Today, the store still reflects that unique, local charm—and you might even spot some legendary artists on our walls, including works from Cheng Khee Chee, Lian Zhen, and Suzanna Winton, all part of our cherished "Art Hall Wallery."

  2. The Art Hall Wallery
    Cheap Joe’s Boone location serves as our headquarters, and walking through the office is like stepping into an art gallery! We’re home to one of the finest collections of art, with pieces from top artists in the business. So, if you’re in Boone, NC, pop by and stroll down our hallway gallery!

     Cheng Khee Chee and many others framed artwork all over the walls. Lian Zhen and Suzanna Winton are shown amongst the other framed artwork onthe wall 

Our Team of Talented Artists

  1. An Artistic Team with Diverse Talents
    Cheap Joe’s team isn’t just knowledgeable about art supplies—they’re artists themselves! From watercolorists to encaustic artists, our employees have real experience creating art. For those who aren’t artists, we offer seminars, workshops, and product demos, making sure everyone has the expertise to help you find exactly what you need to bring your art to life.
    the self portrait artwork of Amanda Chapman, an employee of Cheap Joe's, is shown Employee and Customer Art in the Cheap Joe's 2013 Catalog

  2. A Workshop Studio Worth the Trip
    Our state-of-the-art workshop studio has been called the “Cadillac” of art venues! Students here have spacious workstations, ample lighting, and, of course, our fully stocked art store right next door. And thanks to our high-tech upgrades, every seat is the best seat in the house. We have large flat-screen monitors and an overhead camera, so everyone has a front-row view of instructor demos. No more craning your neck to see the magic unfold! Check out our variety of art lessons and workshops today!

     Edwina and Web and others are sitting at tables during a product demo.

Our Guarantee & Giving Back

  1. Our 365-Day Unconditional Guarantee
    At Cheap Joe’s, we want you to love your art supplies as much as we do, so we give you a full year to decide. If anything doesn’t meet your expectations, just give us a call at 800-227-2788, and our friendly team will make it right. It’s a promise backed by the best guarantee in the business!
    Cheap Joe's store front located in Charlotte North Carolina on Galleria Blvd
  2. Brushes for Vincent: Our Art Charity
    Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff is the proud founder of Brushes for Vincent, a charity that helps bring art supplies to young artists in need. We believe in the power of art to change lives, so every penny you donate goes to orphanages, hospitals, and nonprofits, supporting budding artists who might be the next Van Gogh. A little goes a long way, and you can help us inspire creativity in children everywhere!

    Brushes for Vincent logo, a purple background and Vincent van Gogh's face inside a large V shape

Behind the Scenes with Cheap Joe

  1. Cheap Joe’s Past Life as a Pharmacist
    Before becoming the art guru we know and love, Joe Miller worked as a pharmacist at Boone Drug. But a gift of watercolor lessons changed everything. Joe was so inspired by that class that he stocked up on quality art supplies and began selling them at affordable prices. And that’s how Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff was born—bringing savings and quality to artists ever since!
    John Stacey and Joe Miller standing outside Boone Drug in downtown Boone NC

  2. YouTube University: Cheap Joe’s Style
    Want to learn the ins and outs of art techniques without spending a dime? Head over to Cheap Joe’s on YouTube! Our channel is packed with free tutorials and product demos. Whether it’s a quick tip on how to use a “paint pusher” or a full tutorial on stretching watercolor paper, we’ve got you covered.
    a painted blue wooden sign for Cheap Joe's Art Stuff corporate headquarters distribution center outlet store
  3. Art Supplies with a Personal Touch
    Cheap Joe’s is renowned for its customer-centered approach, but did you know that some of our exclusive products, like American Journey paints, were developed based on feedback from local artists? Joe himself often collaborated with suppliers and customers to refine products, ensuring his art stuff met the practical needs of creators. It's a personal touch that sets Cheap Joe's apart as more than just a retailer—we’re proud partners and participants of the art community.
    artists attending a Bob Burridge workshop at Cheap Joe's
    Local Art Teachers of Watauga County holding a large scholarship check provided by the WSNC and Cheap Joe's
  4. A Fresh New Website for Easy Shopping
    We recently redesigned our website to make finding your favorite supplies and learning resources easier than ever. From improved navigation to more informative product pages, our goal is to make your online experience as smooth as possible. After all, finding the right art supplies should be a creative journey, not a frustrating scavenger hunt!

Whether you’re a brand-new artist or a seasoned pro, Cheap Joe’s is here to support your creativity with the tools, advice, and inspiration you need. We can’t wait to see what you create! And if you’re looking for more information about our company, check out our About Us page.

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