Something uncanny leaps off the shelves at Studio Payne—an uncanny blend of art and nature that thrives on surprise. This is no ordinary gift store, nor a dusty museum stacked with relics; it’s an ever-shifting menagerie where taxidermy rubs shoulders with bones, crystals, vintage medical tools, and bizarre art you’ve never imagined.
Since opening in June 2016, founder Cameren Torgerud has transformed a personal passion into a living gallery and strange little storefront that’s become a must-visit for anyone drawn to the unusual. Expect artist-run creativity as well as things you can actually take home.
Highlights from the World of the Weird
Step inside and curiosity grabs you instantly: a raccoon skull bleached by flesh-eating beetles, elegant bird taxidermy that looks poised to flutter off the mount, or imaginative fantasy creatures that feel like they wandered out of a fairytale. This place pushes taxidermy into high art, balancing scientific interest with aesthetic flair.
You’ll also find bones turned into jewelry, animal parts preserved in jars, fossils, human teeth for sale, antique medical instruments, and odd relics like prosthetic limbs and Boy Scout first-aid kits. It’s the kind of spot where a glycerin-filled jar might sit next to a vintage Hot Wheels collection—and it works.
On the creative side, Studio Payne doubles as a workspace and gallery. Artist workshops and themed exhibitions happen regularly, giving you a chance not just to gawk, but to learn—maybe pull a skull-cleaning session with beetles or see how quirky art pieces come together.
Logic and whimsy collide when you notice the eclectic layout: crystal clusters, enamel signs, anatomical oddities and even a shiba inu greeting guests in one corner—should you be lucky. Despite the compact footprint, the sense that every corner holds a surprise never fades.
Atmosphere & Décor
Walking in feels like entering someone’s eccentric mind after the lid breaks off. The space is intimate yet organized, with curious keepsakes lined up as if in a gallery—but better, because you can actually take some of it home (if it fits your walls, your style, or your backpack).
The décor isn’t polished museum glitz; it’s an artist’s workshop merged with a collector’s loft. Natural textures, glass jars with preserved specimens, skeletal forms and artfully messy displays combine to create a mood that’s equal parts wonder and mild disquiet. That sense of discovery stays with you as you weave through aisles of curios.
It helps that this oddities wonderland was born from curiosity, not commerce. Its unfiltered, artist-first vibe makes even the stranger offerings feel intentional and thoughtful—a place worth lingering in.
Other Considerations
So…is it kid-friendly?
If your child is a little fearless and enjoys the bizarre, they’ll likely find this edgy collection spellbinding. While it’s not a typical children’s attraction, the school of taxidermy and bone art can spark curiosity—just a heads-up if young ones are sensitive to anatomical objects.
So…how’s the price?
Affordable treasure is part of the charm. Studio Payne doesn’t carry premium price tags for its unusual finds; patrons often mention good value across hundreds of eclectic items.
Can it fit into a quick stop?
Totally. The space may be compact, but time flies. You could spend a quick 20 minutes discovering oddities—and still leave with something thought-provoking and unique tucked under your arm.
Any special events?
Yes! Workshops, exhibitions, and occasional themed art happenings are woven into the shop’s rhythm. Frequent visitors and first-timers alike can enjoy new angles on the concept of oddity.
Do they have a pet greeter?
Kind of. Visitors have spotted a friendly shiba inu and even cats roaming the space, lending a playful vibe to the curiosity showcase.
Studio Payne Oddities Shop
📍 2533 7th Ave E, North St. Paul, MN 55109
Website: https://studiopayne.bigcartel.com
