Part two of Rapid Growth’s showcase on the beautifully small and institutionally solid artists-focused markets continues over the next two weeks with a host of wonderful events for you to consider visiting.
Starting off the weekend is the
Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts Holiday Artists Market (or HAM to insiders) which will be celebrating their 25th anniversary of hosting this event. This curated collection of gifts and fine art allows you to quickly check off your list with some amazing finds that will make you a star in your home and with local artists.
In addition, you can listen to live music on Friday night by the Kent County String Band or have the kids make a personalized snowglobe. See their site for details and hours of their Friday and Saturday event.
On Friday, Dec. 7 & 14 is the return of the annual open house at
Vinecroft Studio in the city’s Westside neighborhood. This local studio, which hosts a weekly dinner for a group of artists, arts volunteers and administrators, is also the home to artist and long-time Festival for the Arts organizer Fred Bivins who opens the doors each year to the public over the first two Saturdays to showcase the work of area artists. It is one of the most relaxed places to land and always smells wonderful as a result of so many wonderful loaves of bread, garlic and of course, the aroma of beautiful wood turned bowls that Bivins creates in his wood shop.
The list of artists changes from year to year, so be sure to visit the Facebook event page to get all the details on who is showing on which days, including a rare appearance by musician Drew Nelson who will be showcasing his handmade wood utensils this year.
For those seeking the beautifully small and intimate, there are two more you need to hit this season while dashing through the snow.
A stop to the
Beerhorst Family Christmas should almost be a requirement on anyone’s list -- both to see how wonderfully festive their home has been decorated for the season and to discover what beautiful artifacts and paintings this family of artists in the Eastown neighborhood have created. (Hours: Fri., Sat. & Sun., Dec. 13, 14 & 15 -- 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.) LINK:
Lastly, a stop at the annual
Mid-December Holiday Art Thing should be just the ticket as artists display their offerings and entertainers, well, entertain you with a wonderful display of live pin-striping by Kit Kat Von Bitch. A total of seven very exciting artists are a part of this unique event that is sure to lift more than spirits. Saturday, Dec. 14, Noon – 5 p.m.
From the big to the small there are plenty of ways in the city to stuff that stocking or envelop that tree with your love for all things local from your area artists this season.
Admission: Free