The Holidays are approaching and whatever you are celebrating the question is the same — where can I get a gift for that special someone that is unique and affordable?
Fortunately, The Art Studio, Inc. has the answer. TASI will host its annual Holiday Shop-O-Rama Extravaganza in December, featuring original art at reasonable prices by a variety of local artists.
This year’s event will take place over two days, Dec. 3 and Dec. 10.
The Shop-O-Rama will open Dec. 3 with an early bird sale from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and a free opening reception from 7-10 p.m. that evening.
The sale will also be held 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 10, with daytime refreshments from 12 noon-2pm.
“This year we decided to try something different,” board member Stephan Malick, said. “We are offering vendors the chance to come and set up their stalls for a specific time. They don’t have to commit to a long time so we hope more people will take advantage of the opportunity.”
The Shop-O-Rama traditionally offers smaller versions of the great art produced by tenants and members of The Art Studio year-round.
“The Shop-O-Rama Extravaganza traditionally has a great variety of items. I am confident that there is something for everyone,” Greg Busceme, TASI director, said.
“We know that people at this time of the year are not buying for themselves, so the artists try to make work available that is not as expensive as some of the usual work they may produce.
Ceramics, paintings, drawings and prints, decorative boxes, photographs, woodcarvings, dolls, jewelry and other knick-knacks are expected to be on display.
Participants are responsible for setting up their work for display. All artwork must be brought by in person. Work may be added at any time during the run of the Shop-O-Rama Extravaganza. TASI staff can be responsible for your sales for a commission of 25 percent on all items sold. Or artists can handle their own sales for a booth fee of $20 for one day or $30 for both, and must be present during the duration of the sale.
“The commission is particularly low in relation to other arts organizations,” Busceme said. “It is not unusual for galleries to charge as much as 50-percent commission. We have always tried to keep the percentage low to encourage the less experienced artist to become involved in exhibiting and selling their work.”
This year’s event should attract a good group of artisans, Busceme said.
So instead of giving your money to a giant conglomerate, stimulate the local economy by supporting area artists.
The Art Studio, Inc. is located at 720 Franklin in downtown Beaumont.
For more information, call 409-838-5393.