Shop the Winter EXPO

The Evanston Art Center’s Winter Arts & Crafts Expo opened on Friday evening and I am thrilled to be included.

I’ve admired the talented artists on display in past years, so being part of it is such an honor.

This year’s artistry is even better than before, and I enjoyed the variety of jewelry on display in ‘my’ room.

The ceramics, glassware and wood work is lovely as well.

Another room holds fiber arts and whimsy.

I met fellow FUSEDChicago artist Robin Samiljan who has some lovely encaustic paintings and watercolors in the EXPO.

The Winter Arts & Crafts Expo is one of the largest craft shows in the Chicago area.

The 11th annual Expo features original, handmade arts and crafts by more than 100 selected artisans, featuring original, handmade works of jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal, glass, painting, photography, and mixed-media.

When I did the student show 2 winters ago I had no idea where my artistic journey would take me, and this year has been a whirlwind of growth, inspiration and change.

Being at this opening had me flashing back to the changes that have taken place interpersonally as well as artistically.

The show is open to the public from November 23 to December 22 from 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday and noon to 4 pm on Sundays.

Special shopping events include:

• Girl’s Night Out – Wednesday, December 4 from 6 to 9 pm (Who’s coming out for this?)
  “Enjoy wine and cheese with friends while shopping for gifts”
• Jewelry Fest – Saturday, December 7 from 10 am to 4 pm
• Shop Your Cause Night – Wednesday, December 11 from 6 to 9 pm
  “20% of the night’s profits will be going to participating non-profit organizations”
• 

Men’s Shopping Day – Saturday, December 21 from 10 am to 4 pm
  “Featuring free gift wrapping and ‘helpers’ to find the perfect gifts”
• The EAC Student Expo will be on the second floor from December 7 to December 22

In addition to these events at the main site (next to the Gross Pointe Lighthouse), there will be a pop-up shop in the new AMLI building at 731 Chicago Avenue. From December 1 through December 22, EAC will be programming various special events south of Main Street.

The AMLI shop opens on Sunday, December 1 from noon to 4 pm. After that its hours are 4 to 8 pm on Thursdays and Fridays and from noon to 4 pm on Sundays until December 22.

I’ll be volunteering at the AMLI location on December 19 from 4 to 6 pm, so come on out and show local artisans some love.