TASI to host annual arts sale, Dec. 5-7
Forget fighting the crowds at the big box stores. Don’t throw your money away on an overpriced trinket that will not be appreciated. Spend your holiday gift-buying cash on unique arts and crafts by local artists.
The Art Studio, Inc. will host its annual Holiday Shop-O-Rama Extravaganza, Dec. 5-7, featuring a range of items from painting to ceramics, jewelry, photography, ornaments and much more. The event will be held at The Studio’s facility at 720 Franklin St. in downtown Beaumont.
Shop-O-Rama will be structured differently this year, taking place over three consecutive days instead of the usual two Saturdays.
“We want to participate on First Thursdays, outs and about in Beaumont, and have a more family-oriented opportunity to both buy and create art,” Stephanie Orta, TASI assistant director, said.
As well as the usual opportunities to buy unique, hand-made items, Orta said, The Studio will host a hands-on art activity, although plans have yet to be finalized.
The First Thursday event on Dec. 5 will see The Studio stay open from noon until 8 p.m. On Friday, Dec. 6, the sale will continue during regular hours, from noon to 5 p.m.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, The Studio will open at noon and continue through 10 p.m. to incorporate the regular Saturday gallery reception.
“We’ll segue into our regular sort of reception slash Christmas party,” Orta said. “A Christmas party is really is what it is, and a celebration of our three-day Shop-O-Rama Holiday Extravaganza.”
Any local artist or crafts person who creates unique items is invited to participate for a vendor fee of $25. Vendors should sign up for a space by Nov. 30.
“They can come and set up, and they pick their own hours,” Orta said. “They can also leave it there.”
The Studio charges a commission of 25 percent for sales it processes on consignment, but if the vendor stays with the stall and sells themselves there is no commission. However, commissions or donations are appreciated, Orta said.
The reception on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. will be chance for artists and patrons alike to share a festive atmosphere, Orta said.
“Who doesn’t enjoy a Christmas party,” she said. “Let’s get glammed up. We’ll probably have a photo booth, too. So memories will be made — and it’s our last chance to celebrate before the New Year.”
The Studio’s annual event supports local artists, as well as offering shoppers an alternative choice for their gift giving.
“You also want to check out what’s new, because a lot of people are creating new artwork and trying different mediums,” she said. “It’s a chance for great Christmas gifts, all handmade items and unique finds.”
Vendors are responsible for their own setup and takedown, Orta said.
“We’re just encouraging those to show what they’ve created, or maybe just unload what they have been storing away,” she said. “I know many of my artist friends will say, ‘Oh, nobody will buy it.’ and then they’ll put it out there and it’s bought in the next 10 minutes.”
The Shop-O-Rama Extravaganza has become a staple of the holiday season and this year’s event promises a little something for every taste.
For more information, or to be a vendor, call 409-838-5393, or email info@artstudio.org.