With Christmas around the corner, it’s the time of year where everyone is thinking of what to give important people in their lives, and everyone is struggling to find that perfect gift.
In the North Okanagan, there’s a few options to give locally made and handcrafted gifts and one of them supports the Vernon Community Arts Centre.
The Arts Council of the North Okanagan, which runs the centre, is holding its eighth annual artisans show and sale Artsolutely.
The event is held at the VCAC in Polson Park and sponsors and supports a number of local artists.
“This year, we are fortunate to have 28 extremely talented artisans, all working in a range of mediums and creating top-quality works,” said Karla Holiove, with the VCAC. “Every year, this fundraiser enriches the arts centre and the community, with the displays and works continually growing more elaborate and exciting.”
VCAC clay instructor Gale Woodhouse, who is in her fourth year participating in the sale, urges the public to check out the event.
“It’s gratifying to work with such a fine collection of local artists,” she said. “I love being there with someone as they purchase their first original piece of artwork, or a gift for a spouse or parent.
“Having the Vernon Community Arts Centre provide a venue where the community can come together and support local artists, and having artists supporting and promoting other artists are two things that make this show so great.”
Patricia Doyle, operator of Bella Vista Glass and participating in her eighth Artsolutely, says she believes in the good feelings produced from buying art created by someone, rather than something, and the positive effects this has on the local economy.
“When you support a local artist, you are not only giving back to your community, but you are also participating in a simple act of goodwill, which is something everyone wants to feel, especially this time of year,” she said.
“Artsolutely is constantly changing and growing, establishing itself as a place known for its high-quality works of art. It’s a warm, inviting atmosphere, and a place where some of the most talented artists in the North Okanagan come together.”
Artsolutely continues from today to Tuesday, Dec. 24 and is open every day at the Vernon Community Arts Centre, located in the heart of Polson Park. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today to Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. The sale will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
For more information, visit www.vernonarts.ca or call 250-542-6243.
