How
it all began…
Sometimes ideas have
momentum of their own.
While the idea
that Huntsville lacked an annual Christmas fine craft and art show had occurred
to me a few years ago, I didn’t think I would be spearheading such an event
myself. Then I learned that Kelly
Holinshead was closing the Shutterbug Gallery on Main Street. My art glass had been exhibited in the
Gallery since its first year, and while I was excited that Kelly was moving on
to new horizons, I had a twinge of regret to be losing my little foothold in
town. Those who have visited my studio up
the Limberlost Road may guess that few customers venture out once the snow
flies!
So in November
2012, Made in Muskoka Christmas was
conceived. Once I knew the Shutterbug
was moving, I began to envision a high calibre Christmas Show and Sale in a
beautiful venue close to the heart of Huntsville. I bounced the idea off an artist who I knew belonged
in such a show, and was greeted with a firm YES! I began to compile a list of potential
exhibitors, selecting for quality, balance and variety. For a seasonal touch, I invited my favorite
cook to create some special edibles. Without the eager support and work of my
fellow artists and craftspeople, the event would have stayed on the drawing board. Instead, it came to life.
The venue for Made in Muskoka Christmas presented
itself as soon as I started planning.
Freshly renovated, Sutherland Hall is the perfect size, offers
historical character, is accessible, and is centrally located. Just a block from Main Street Huntsville,
visitors to our show can enjoy a meal and visit the shops that give Huntsville
its distinct character while they’re here.
One aspect that was important from the start
was that this event should give back to the community. At our first planning meeting the group
unanimously voted to partner with TheTable Soup Kitchen Foundation, inviting them to accept contributions for
their worthy initiatives at the door. Be assured that your generosity will go a
long way improving many lives in Huntsville.
Made in Muskoka Christmas presents some
of Muskoka’s finest makers, and if you’ve been around Huntsville long you’ll
recognize many names on our Artists Page.
Others are talented emerging artists who truly deserve the
exposure. Bringing them all together at
this festive season is very exciting for me, and I’m confident we won’t
disappoint shoppers looking for truly meaningful gifts in every price range. I may have lit the spark for Made in Muskoka Christmas, but it is the
enthusiasm and hard work of everyone participating that has made it a reality.
A special
reception Friday December 13 will kick things off, and the cider pot will be on
all weekend to make you feel welcome.
Come experience the first ever Made
in Muskoka Christmas. We hope it
will be one of the cornerstones of Huntsville’s cultural calendar for years to
come.
Every issue of Muskoka Life magazine highlights a
piece of local art and its maker in a feature called “All in the Details”. For the current holiday issue one of my pieces
was selected. The article brings to life
the inspiration, process and thought behind Spring Melt IV, one of a series of
free-standing glass art pieces. Pick up
a free copy of Muskoka Life at local stores before they disappear.
