FLAX has been contributing to the culture and character of San Francisco since 1938, when Herman and Sylvia opening up their first small art supply shop in downtown SF (shown below). Over those 85+ years we've been visited by tourists from around the world, famous artists, musicians and celebrities, and have provided continuity for generations of creative families. We are an independent, locally-owned business recognized as an iconic establishment, and listed on the Legacy Business Registry.

San Francisco established the Legacy Business Program to help preserve longstanding businesses and protect these places with intangible cultural significance that make San Francisco such a special place. Inspired by programs in cities such as Buenos Aires, Barcelona and London, registration into the Legacy Business Program is open to businesses that are 30 years or older, have been nominated by a member of the Board of Supervisors or Mayor and, in a hearing before the Small Business Commission, are acknowledged to have made a significant impact on the history or culture of their neighborhood.

We are proud to be a Legacy Business, and plan to continue contributing to our community for many more years to come. Learn more about FLAX here.

To see all the San Francisco businesses listed in the directory, click here.

This bronze plaque was installed just outside our store in Fort Mason Center on September 29, 2023.