CRESTVIEW — Local arts organizations have an idea for Christmas shopping: How about buying one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts from local craftsmen and fine artists?
Three area arts organizations are sponsoring the annual CALA: Crestview Area Loves the Arts showcase of hand-crafted works by area artists.
The Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce Arts & Culture Committee, Okaloosa Arts Alliance-North committee and the local Friends of the Arts will present the Dec. 7 event.
"Here is an idea," Arts and Culture chairwoman Rae Schwartz said. "Let's buy Christmas presents from small local businesses and self-employed people."
Schwartz said by buying local, shoppers' money remains in the community. By buying from local artists, shoppers are assured their gifts are unique. And by shopping at CALA, shoppers will meet the artists who crafted the gifts they select.
"This way, more local people will have a better Christmas," she said.
Schwartz said multiple fine and visual arts will be represented, including china painting, wood turning, painting, photography, book and fabric arts.
"Many of the artists have had their works on display in the display cases at the library," Schwartz said.
Live music will be performed during the event, to be held in the Crestview Public Library meeting room. Limited exhibitor space is still available, Schwartz said. Works must be handmade, she said.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: CALA: Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival
WHO: Sponsored by the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce Arts and Culture Committee, Okaloosa Arts Alliance-North and Friends of the Arts
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 7
WHERE: Crestview Public Library
DETAILS: Fine arts for sale, live music. Free to browse. Call 585-5672 to exhibit. Not for sales representatives.
Contact News Bulletin Arts & Entertainment Editor Brian Hughes at 850-682-6524 or brianh@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbBrian.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Arts organizations offering handmade gifts for the holidays