Holly Days in Milton brings handmade art and Christmas shopping together
Milton has lined up a festive holiday for all ages Saturday, Dec. 9, with three attractions — Town of Milton Holiday House Tour, Milton Garden Club Holly Festival and The Milton Arts Guild Holly Days arts 'n' crafts sale and winter-themed gallery exhibition.
The artisans of the Arts Guild are excited to share their newest creations with original hand-crafted work available for purchase.
As visitors browse the displays, they will be treated with complimentary refreshments and holiday cheer.
Rita Poore, the guild's communications director and artisan, provides insight on how the Arts Guild is a haven for local artists with extensive peer group support and educational opportunities to improve one’s craft while also being committed to community outreach.
On Saturday, Dec. 9, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m., at the Milton Arts Guild, local artists will have handcrafted artworks for sale. What are some unique items artisans have been working on?
Artists will be offering alcohol ink coasters, paper Christmas roses, knitted children’s sweaters, custom cigar box creations, pottery, jewelry, Christmas ornaments and miniature artworks, all perfect for that unique gift for the holidays.
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Our holiday tables will be laden with seasonal treats and drinks as well. It has to be said, we put out quite a spread, thanks to the generosity and culinary talents of our members. This one is totally a group effort.
Visitors can also view the Holly Days winter exhibition in the gallery during this time. What mediums will be featured? When does the exhibition end?
The Holly Days exhibition features local artists’ works in oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media painting in addition to photography, sculpture, bird carvings, mosaics and weaving. The exhibition runs until Jan. 9, 2018.
What does this show mean to the artists who have dedicated time to their work when there are other responsibilities in life to juggle?
Art is a calling. When you love to do it, you find time, even if it is at the end of a busy day.
In our area, winter-themed art is a chance to show a different side of the beauty of Sussex County and its residents, stretching creativity to match the season.
Since its inception, has Milton Arts Guild seen an influx of support for local arts? Why do you think having a strong support is critical to the survival of the arts?
Local art associations are great boosts to any community and Milton is no exception. With great charm, architecture, and above all, history, Milton is a natural magnet for creative minds.
The gallery gives new artists or established artists a “home” to show work, the inspiration to create new work with a new show almost every month, and the community a place to celebrate their achievements.
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A new venture, local businesses sponsoring our monthly opening receptions has been a win-win for the Art Guild and the sponsors.
Our Holly Days Exhibition is a stop on the annual Milton Holiday House tour sponsored by the Milton Women’s Club. The Studios on Walnut are our landlords, and the resident artists will have their studios open to the public.
What positive impacts have you made on the community?
Each year in March we sponsor an exhibition for Cape Henlopen High School art students where we award scholarships to seniors for their higher education.
Also, this year we have worked with the town to place “Point of Interest” signs in Milton for MAG.
As part of the Milton Arts Guild mission, what are some of the educational opportunities offered to members?
Each month we offer Artful Touch classes taught by guild members. These two-hour “intros” to a subject are a great no-pressure, low-cost way to try out a subject or technique in a welcoming atmosphere. Often, non-Arts Guild members join after these classes.
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We also offer at least four workshops a year, drawing on local artists and nationally known artists to teach three-to-four day intensive sessions. These are usually not beginner courses.
This year we are exploring doing a children’s program, which we are very excited about.
To date, how many guild members are on the roster and is it limited to a certain number?
We are now 108 members strong and currently doing a membership drive. We welcome all who create art, love art, and want to promote art in the community. As of now, we have no membership limit.
IF YOU GO
Milton Arts Guild Holly Days Arts 'n' Crafts sale and exhibition
When: Saturday, Dec. 9, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 310 Walnut St., Milton
Cost: Free
Info: www.miltonartsguild.com