Uptown Artworks goes brick and mortar

Dan Glaun

Lori Blum’s customized wall art and throw pillows have graced living rooms across the country and won mention in major lifestyle magazines. And now the Great Neck resident’s designs are going somewhere new – a brick-and-mortar storefront.

Uptown Artworks, Blum’s online shop where patrons can browse and buy her vintage subway sign-inspired designs, is its first store in Port Washington.

“Between selling to other retailers around the country and the online site, the business has grown over the four years,” Blum said. “I thought gee, it might be fun to try a brick-and-mortar store.”

Blum began selling her pillows and wall hangings four years ago, featuring both custom designs and the names of famous urban neighborhoods. Blum worked out of her Great Neck home, running the business that drew celebrity clients including Kelly Osborne.

Now the business has a physical home on Port Washington Boulevard, where Blum and her team turn out decorative pillows, art and a new product – lucite serving trays.

“We actually make the pillows in the back. I have graphic designers working there,” Blum said.

Blum was born in New York City, grew up in Los Angeles and moved to Great Neck 22 years ago. She discovered design as an adult, after earning a degree in social work.

“I’ve always been interested in fashion and design and sowing,” Blum said.

The design of her pillows, which are produced with green manufacturing techniques on linen and cotton according to a press release, were inspired by the aesthetics of old New York City.

“I was drawn to vintage subway signs – that’s really what inspired the product,” Blum said.

Her line now includes over 100 designs, including Long Island-themed pillows listing famous shore communities, such as Montauk, East Hampton Village and Sag Harbor.

An Uptown Artwork press release touts personalization options for the company’s products, including a range of colors and custom text.

“We work with customers to personalize their designs and create one-of-a-kind gifts and home decor,” said Blum in the release.

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