Local Art Shows and Holiday Shopping

Beaverton’s First Friday for November included the opening of a two-month art show and sale called, “The Curio” presented by Beaverton Arts Market. It was held at The Reser’s gallery. The show and sale of local artwork, 51 artists to be exact, includes works in all mediums and price ranges. The opening was well attended with hundreds of people from the community coming out to enjoy refreshments, take in the art, and do some holiday shopping.

The artists were on hand to talk about the work. I was excited to see so many people out enjoying a night of local art. I made sure to stop and chat with a few people and complimented the work. When at a show, be sure to let an artist know that you appreciate the work. You don’t have to be an art expert or use fancy jargon, just telling them it is beautiful, that you like the colors, or how it makes you feel means a great deal to someone who has poured their heart into a piece of artwork.

There will be another event, Mingle with the Muse @ Art Walk, on December 6th. The show and sale run through 12/23. The gallery is open Wed-Sat, 12-6 as well as when The Reser has a show. Be sure to stop in and view the artwork and perhaps shop locally for some of your holiday gifts.

That evening, I also stopped by Grey Raven Gallery as it is just around the corner from The Reser. They also had a show by northwest printmakers and ceramicists. A guitarist was playing, and they had snacks and wine for the reception. There were too many prints to name all the artists, but they were beautiful. There were also so many lovely pieces of jewelry, cards, small prints, and other items reasonably priced for holiday gifting.

I then stopped across the street at Central Station Taps. The painter featured there was Brooke Walker-Knoblich. We had a lovely chat, and I learned she studied in southern California as well as Europe. Her work was stunning in its colors and details. She paints all kinds of subjects, especially landscapes plein-air, which means outside. She teaches and takes commissions. Check her out at www.BrookePaints.com

My last stop of the evening was at Kinder Home to see the artist there, Mandy Kav. Mandy is a Portland based artist that works abstractly with acrylics on raw canvas. Her works are inspired by her journey as a mother as well as her love for nature. They are loose and fluid pieces that are calm and restful. Mandy shows in the area and has works for sale online. Check her out at www.mandyhav.com.

As we head into the holidays, just a reminder how much local artists and craftspeople rely on your business. It is always a great idea to buy local and small for the gift giving season. Please consider shopping at one of the many small businesses in the Beaverton area. They need your support and Happy Holidays!

Amy Mower is a local artist and lifelong Beaverton resident. She is passionate about the future of the arts in our community.