By Lori Hood
Has your family decided to give handmade gifts this year? Did they specify that they had to be made by YOUR hands?
Whether you’re looking to cheat on a family pact or just want to support local artisans, York Region is home to an abundance of talented individuals who rely heavily on holiday sales to keep their businesses and dreams alive.
I was speaking with Teresa Dunlop, a Newmarket-based potter and instructor, about her wares and how important this time of year is for her home-based business.
As a member of the Newmarket Group of Artists, Teresa was once again able to take her wares to the people as a participant in the NGA’s annual show which took place in multiple outdoor venues and spaces this past fall.
“People were so happy to come out to support local artists and be part of the community again,” she said.
The hope is that the same exuberance will extend to the indoor shows happening all throughout York Region over the coming weeks.
When it comes to what is most in demand during the season of giving, mugs, bowls, serving dishes, and knitting bowls top the list of things Teresa finds she sells most at this time of year. It’s no surprise that functional gifts trump more sculptural pieces since art is such an individual experience for most of us.
Teresa, along with 12 other local artists and artisans, will be participating in the Artisans’ Holiday Show and Sale December 11 – 19 at Matsu Jewellery in Newmarket. In addition, if you are looking for a sale that is all about clay and ceramics, the Pine Tree Potters Guild, which is home to many potters throughout York Region, will be hosting their Fall Pottery Sale from November 18 – 20 at Newmarket Old Town Hall. If you’re looking to gift a piece of handmade pottery this season to reach out to any of your local guilds this holiday season.
Artisans’ Holiday Show and Sale.
December 11 – 19
1235 Gorham St, unit 1
www.newmarketgroupofartists.org
Pine Tree Potters Fall Sale.
November 18-20
Teresa Dunlop Ceramics
Newmarket’s Lori Hood is the mother of two children and does her best to get them out of the house as often as possible to explore local attractions and events, or just for a meal at one of their favourite restaurants.
Images supplied by artists – Theresa Dunlop; Rhonda Uppington; Jennifer Shigetomi; Jennifer Greeggan.
