Brittany & Jerry Hepworth

In January 2023, Brittany and Jerry Hepworth proudly became the new owners of Artisan ABQ. United by a shared vision to inspire creativity and community, they are building on decades of legacy to lead the store into a vibrant new era.

Brittany’s roots in the fine art supply world run deep. Her journey began in childhood, shaped by the creative influence of her father, Ron Whitmore, co-owner of Artisan Santa Fe for over 34 years. Growing up surrounded by artists, Brittany developed an enduring appreciation for the creative process and the role that quality materials—and heartfelt support—play in it. “Art is such an intimate act—creating something from the heart,” she says. “I’ve always felt honored to help others bring their visions to life.”

When longtime Artisan ABQ co-owner Ernie Cavasos retired after 43 years of dedicated service, Brittany and Jerry saw the opportunity to continue the legacy—and to reimagine what a modern art supply store could be. With their combined passion for the arts and strong business backgrounds, they stepped in with a vision to grow the creative community while honoring the roots of what makes Artisan ABQ special.

Jerry complements Brittany’s artistic background with more than 16 years of business experience in project management, marketing, web development, and technical support. His expertise in digital strategy and e-commerce is instrumental in expanding Artisan ABQ’s reach while maintaining its personal touch.

Together, the Hepworths are infusing Artisan ABQ with fresh energy, expanding its online presence, and strengthening connections with local artists, students, and creatives. Their goal is simple but powerful: to keep art alive and accessible in Albuquerque and to ensure that every customer—whether in-store or online—feels inspired, supported, and part of a thriving creative community.