Welcome to Artezen

Artezen features beautifully designed handbags and accessories made from sustainable cork, sourced from family-run suppliers in Portugal. Many of these families have passed down their craft for generations, preserving traditions rooted in the Portuguese cork oak forests. 

Cork is a remarkable renewable resource. Once harvested from a cork oak tree, the bark naturally regenerates, allowing the same tree to be harvested for up to 200 years. The cork is then carefully processed into unique patterns or imprinted with elegant designs. No chemicals or additives are used in creating cork fabric, and any unused scraps are either repurposed or returned to the earth—completely biodegradable. 

Kristi first discovered cork products in Southern California. When she moved to Colorado in 2019, she believed the eco-friendly and sustainable qualities of cork would resonate here. In August 2020, she launched Artezen at The Emporium in Castle Rock. 

Her mission is to not only offer stylish, lightweight, and durable alternatives to leather and fabric handbags, but also to educate customers about the sustainability of cork. Artezen continues to expand with new styles, wallets, jewelry, and other cork creations. 

Alongside the many talented artisans at The Emporium, Kristi and Artezen deeply appreciate your support of small Colorado businesses.