Our region is filled with talented musicians, artists, artisans and actors who share their talents with the community.
As the holidays approach, our thoughts turn to our blessings and ways to share those with loved ones – either through gift giving or sharing time with one another. Art is a way to bridge those desires.
Do you have a music lover in your circle of friends and family? Tickets to a symphony concert or a gift certificate to the Paramount Center for the Arts make great gifts. Many of our local venues offer gift certificates and live music for your music loving foodie friends. For theater lovers, tickets to one of our regional theaters, either professional or community theater, can fill hearts with joy. Buy an extra ticket for yourself and enjoy an evening making memories together.
Unique, handcrafted items make thoughtful, heart-warming gifts and support local artists and small businesses. You can even share experiences such as a painting or ceramics party with your friends and family.
Instead of buying a mass-produced piece of jewelry this year, consider a pair of handcrafted earrings or custom piece made locally just for your special person. Art prints, books, hand-woven scarves, pottery, stained glass, fabric art, photographs, sculpture and more are available throughout the region. Many of the offerings are thought-provoking, beautiful and even quite practical, such as cutting boards, mugs, baskets and blankets.
The options created by local artists and craftspeople are varied, eye-catching and affordable. Galleries also offer gift certificates in case you can’t make up your mind.
Unlike buying from Etsy or other online sources, when you buy local, your money stays in the community. You can also see and feel the quality of the piece before you buy and sometimes even talk to the artist. You get a unique, creative item to bring beauty into your life or share as a gift.
It is a rewarding experience to bring home something unique that you fell in love with or reminded you of your loved one. You know it won’t wear out or go out of season, and it can travel to wherever you or the recipient lives.
In this issue we have included short profiles of several local galleries where you can find affordable artisan gifts. There are many more places throughout the area that have artistic creations for holiday gift ideas. Many carry extra stock during the gift-giving season to ensure a wide selection.
There is also a variety of artist studios where visitors are welcome to observe, learn and purchase.
After you’ve made your list and checked it twice, visit these stores and spread holiday cheer to a local artist and a local business.
