The Artistic Story

An American success story.

Who would have guessed in 1947 that a small manufacturer of copper and brass gift items in Des Moines, Iowa would eventually grow to become one of the largest manufacturers of church ware in the world? Young Ellis Monk, an actuarial student at Drake University, was working for the small manufacturer, when he discovered his passion for mechanics and design. After completing his degree, he became General Manager of the small, but successful operation. Then, in 1958, his church, Grant Park Christian, asked if he would make a cross and candlesticks for its sanctuary. As an active member and Sunday school teacher, he accepted the challenge. The rest, as they say, is history.

Ellis was inspired as he humbly handcrafted the beautiful pieces for the church. In 1965, he and his wife bought the company, named it Artistic Manufacturing Corporation, and devoted it solely to making churchware. In the following decades, the company produced thousands of designs while growing steadily. Today, Artistic churchware can be found in small country chapels and big city churches across America, in African missions — even in central Russia.

Superior craftsmanship and unsurpassed excellence.

Along with its steady growth, Artistic has maintained impeccable standards of craftsmanship and has earned a reputation for unsurpassed excellence. Since its founding, their products have been proudly handcrafted by master craftsmen in the nation’s heartland. Many of our craftsmen have spent decades with the company, devoted to honing and perfecting their skills. The Artistic brand is synonymous with unmatched craftsmanship, timeless artistry, caring customer service and revered faith traditions.

We invite you to examine each designs’ radiance, achieved by using the world’s most sophisticated finishing techniques. These measures not only bestow lasting beauty, but also ensure practical durability. Ultimately, the attention to detail is a reflection of our devotion to our customers and to God. Unlike products outsourced to overseas laborers, Artistic designs are proudly made in the U.S.A. by Christians for Christians.