Little Italy has been steadily gaining a reputation as San Diego's cutting-edge art and design district, and several local artists maintain studios in this industrial-style complex at the heart of the area's transformation. Some--especially the street-level galleries--maintain regular open hours. For the smaller studio/galleries upstairs, you can either call ahead for an appointment (don't be shy, the artists are eager to share their work) or take your chances with whoever is on-site working when you visit. Some recommended highlights include the David Zapf Gallery (no. 104, tel. 619/232-5004), which features painting, sculpture, drawings, photography and custom furniture. The Pratt Gallery (no. 106, tel. 619/236-0211) has a changing display space, often featuring innovative paintings, photography, or other highly individual work. Open houses are held on select Friday evenings--call David Zapf for the schedule.