Walking into GV Art & Design, it is immediately clear the store is more than a place to shop. Bright artwork lines the walls, bold graphic designs fill the space and the atmosphere is welcoming and creative.
GV Art & Design has become a recognizable part of Lakewood’s shopping scene, known for its unique artwork, Cleveland pride and strong connection to the community.
The business was founded by brothers George and Greg, who have been artists since childhood. According to store manager Lis Demmitt, the business started in a unique way.
“The two owners are brothers, George and Greg. They are artists. They were artists since they were kids. George is pretty famous and well known for his Etch-a-Sketches, and then they decided to start making, like, T-shirts. They were just selling them out of their van, and then eventually they got a store, and it’s just blown up and been pretty successful,” Demmitt said.
That humble beginning is part of what makes GV Art & Design stand out. The store’s growth shows how passion and creativity can turn into a successful local business. What started with selling shirts from a van has grown into a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
One thing that sets GV Art & Design apart is that everything sold in the store is original. Unlike many retail stores that sell mass-produced items, GV focuses on artwork created directly by the owners.
“Everything here is created by the owners [who] are the artists, and it’s all unique to us. You won’t find GV’s artwork style anywhere,” Demmitt said.
This originality is a major reason customers return. The designs range from Cleveland-themed apparel to bold art prints, all reflecting the personalities and creativity of the artists behind the brand. New products are added regularly to keep the inventory fresh.
“We pretty much release something new every week, so that’s usually what is on our displays,” Demmitt said.
GV Art & Design also emphasizes a welcoming environment. The store is known for its friendly atmosphere, which helps customers feel comfortable as soon as they walk in.
“So we’re really friendly here, we welcome everyone with open arms,” Demmitt said.
This atmosphere is something both employees and customers notice. Phil Kinzer Jr., a store employee, said working there feels different from a typical retail job.
“I started here in 2018. I was working at a restaurant, and we did a collaboration with GV at the time during the NBA Finals, as we were hosting ESPN’s First Take with Stephen A. Smith and Max Kellerman. I invited George and Greg to come out and sit front row behind the desk on camera, and that’s when we started a great working relationship that has continued on,” Kinzer said.
Demmitt noted a sense of family among her coworkers and appreciated the positive energy of the customers.
“I love everybody that works here. We’re like a family, and I also really love our customers. They’re always very friendly and upbeat. We’re very lucky to have excellent customers here,” Demmitt said.
Customers say they feel that same sense of community when they shop.
“When I went in, the workers were super friendly and helpful. You can tell they care about what they do, and that makes the experience so much more,” said customer Betsy Smith.
GV Art & Design’s connection to Lakewood goes beyond selling artwork. By supporting local creators and maintaining a creative space, the store plays an important role in the community. It encourages people to express themselves and appreciate art in everyday life, whether through clothing, prints or simply browsing the aisles.
For children and young artists, GV Art & Design also serves as inspiration. The story of two brothers turning a childhood passion into a thriving business shows that creativity can lead to real opportunities. It highlights the importance of staying true to oneself and taking risks.
The success of GV Art & Design began with loyal customers who supported the business from the start. Between the artists, the employees and the community, GV Art & Design is more than just a store; it is a creative community.
