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When thinking of the perfect gift, whether it’s for a birthday or anniversary, I usually take the extra step. I don’t like getting the cliche chocolates, cards, or flowers. Robert Smith’s Wood & Music Lab is one of my favorite places to score unique, handmade gifts.

Nestled in the new business & visitor center in El Centro de Oro, Smith has a distinctive approach to his hobby. He carves and paints onto wood… using your photographs and pictures! Smith and his team can create wall plaques from your portrait, make custom address plates, canes, staffs and pretty much anything you request. Their specialty is carving images on wooden congas.

If you walk around the area, you might notice some of his work in the trees. One of my favorites is the tree with Central and South American flags carved right on it by Taller Puertorriqueño. Smith started his artwork 6 years ago on Dauphin Street but soon moved to the Latino corridor. If you don’t need something custom-made, you can check out some of the already carved plaques in the store; they’re pretty amazing. As an added bonus, ask about their music lessons!

His store located in the heart of El Centro de Oro is open 6 days a week Monday through Saturday, 1p.m. – 6 p.m.

Robert Smith’s Wood & Music Lab
2704 North 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 425-6189
www.woodandmusiclab.com