The Studio of the Orion Art Center’s was filled with music and holiday cheer as shoppers browsed the OAC’s new creative space looking for gifts of art.
New OAC Board president Ron Harper was among those who brought his family to the reception Thursday night to meet the artists and shop for gifts, ‘It’s fun for me because I come from the business world. I’m astounded by the amount of work that goes into these pieces. These artists are small business owners and to see their work all in one place is cool. It’s unique and good for Lake Orion.?
It’s the 13th year for the Holiday Artist Market. Over a dozen new artists joined nearly 50 selling their work at the market. The work includes pottery, hand dyed silk scarves, jewelry, fused glass ornaments and other creations.
Photographer Jim Jabczenski was one of the artists who attended the reception, ‘I have a passion for photography and art. Most of my pictures are taken in Michigan and I love sharing the places that I visit and capture on film with others.?
This year the Art Center opted to offer the event for only twelve days. ‘It’s a play off of the 12 Days of Christmas, of course,? says Director Lauren Dinneweth. ‘We thought it would be a fun twist to an already successful event.?
Artist Laura Gabriel creates one of a kind clay sculptures and also has a personal studio in the building. ‘I enjoy seeing how people respond to my work even if they don’t buy it. It’s fun and it vindicates what you do as an artist.?
This is the third year that The Orion Art Center has filled the space next to Diamond Dave’s Creative Jewelers with art, which had previously been vacant. In September the OAC opened a pottery studio at the location and also offers painting and clay classes.
On Saturday December 21, artists will demonstrate their work including pottery, painting and stained glass. The Holiday Market runs through Sunday, December 22 and is open daily from 11a.m. to 7pm.
The Market takes place next to Diamond Dave’s Creative Jewelers at 424 S. Lapeer Road, Lake Orion, across from McDonald’s. For more information call the Orion Art Center at (248) 693-4986 or visit www.orionartcenter.org.