“Prickly Pear Concerto,” paper mache platter painted with fermented prickly pear juice by Val Bembenek.
Val Bembenek
Now in its eighth year and well-known for offering distinctive creations by Oracle artists and artisans, the Holiday Gifts & Art Market is open Wednesdays-Sundays in December.
This year 12 artists have set up at 35 W. American Ave., a white cottage just west of St. Helen Church. It’s open 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on December 3-7, 10-14 and 17-21. There is ample parking.
New this year: seasonal wreaths; yarn-star and stick ornaments; embellished cigar boxes and mirrors; Kumihimo braided bead necklaces; etched copper bookmarks; fabric and photo cards; beargrass, devil’s claw and saguaro boot creations; and other nature art. Shoppers will also find imaginative jewelry crafted with glass, stones, metals, wire and beads; paintings and wall art; garden art and lights; collectible artists books and fired pottery. In keeping with the spirit of friendly pricing, many items are less than fifteen dollars.
A “Meet the Artists” evening with hors d’oeuvres and desserts is set for Friday, December 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Participating artists are Jill Caid, Alicia Bristow, Susie Cochran, Susan Daigneault, Allison Griffin, Sharon Holnback, Anna Marie Martin, Laurel Roth, Elvia Schwenke, Carolann Small, Judy Walsh and Val Bembenek.
Take Oracle Road north and continue as it becomes Hwy. 77. Just past mile marker 100, turn onto American Ave. and continue for 1.5 miles to the Cottage. Information at www.oracletown.com.