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More often than not, galleries and art stores contain pieces that make your eyes pop out — not for how beautiful the piece is, but for how much it costs to own high-quality artwork. This makes it hard to support local artists while still being able to eat. In lieu of starvation, try out the best places to buy local art for less than $100 in D.C.

It’s hard to think of D.C. without Eastern Market. After a devastating fire a few years ago, the market rose from the ashes like the proverbial phoenix. Since 1873, people have flocked to Capitol Hill to buy fresh groceries and chit chat with vendors and friends. It is one of the most important venues for local farmers and artists. On the weekends, practice your “Antiques Roadshow” skills by discovering vintage items you didn’t even know you wanted. If you are a new is better than old person, there are plenty of local artists vying to show off and sell their work. From turquoise jewelry to abstract sculptures, decorate your home and yourself and still have cash left to by some seasonal produce.

Normally when art is custom made you can assume an arm and a leg were sacrificed for payment. Luckily, not all custom work requires amputation. Located at the Hyattsville, Md., Busboys & Poets restaurant, Art Under Pressure is in the heart of the young Arts District. It’s an apt location because it’s all art all of the time. At Art Under Pressure, take advantage of murals, custom and commissioned artwork, screen printing and graphic design. Stop by and test their limits, but be mindful of your wallet’s limits.

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If you are a lover of the sweet treat, Caramel will be misleading. Although it is named after owner Sarah Watkins’ grandfather’s love of caramel, it isn’t a candy store. It’s just an eclectic store for men and women. In addition to the clothing, it sells accessories and showcase art. It is a great supporter of art, especially local artists. As a supporter of Mid City Artists, a group of professional D.C. artists, Caramel plays a part in bringing more creativity and beauty into D.C.

It’s safe to say people in D.C. like to look good. Despite being considered too conservative by some fashion gurus, the district does have style. For those of you who like to stand out, whether it’s in your face or slightly more conservative, Redeem has something for you. The right accessory can make an outfit go from drab to fab, and a necklace or ring from Maslo Jewelry can do just that. Maslo Jewelry is just one of the amazing local artists that the locally owned and operated store carries. You may not be able to get every part of your stunning outfit for less than $100 but you will probably get your most-talked-about piece there.

So many people have incorporated parts of Middle Eastern and Asian culture into their styles, and Indian designs into their home decor. At Village Art & Craft you can get beautiful, unique and handmade pieces including bangles, bed covers, statues, pillow covers and earrings, all at unbelievably reasonable prices. It is a underrated gem, that has had some pretty famous visitors, but if you’re looking for local only, check with management as some of these beautiful, artistic pieces are imported as well.

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