Giving the Gift of Art: try an up and coming artist

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend Studio Party 12: Sensory Explosion, an annual fundraising gala for the McColl Center for Visual Arts where many current students and alumni of the center shared their original artwork with over 300 guests. The artwork showcased was available for purchase that night and a wide variety of work was highlighted at the event. Being a lover of the arts, of course I enjoyed myself but it also got me thinking about art as a gift. If you know an art lover, an original piece of work from an up and coming artist would be such a special gift.  During Studio Party 12, many artists were present at the event to discuss their work and many purchases were made. To read more about the Studio Party 12 event, please see my full article via Charlotte Style Magazine, where I go into more details, as well as share a few photos.

It was one of the most laid back fundraising events I have been too in quite some time. In addition, the event gave artists exposure, allowed attendees access to new works and the artists themselves. While we are lucky to have the McColl Center for Visual Arts in Charlotte, as well as the Studio Party 12 special event, there are many other events and options for connecting with local artists. Some routes include connecting through traditional art galleries, visiting  an artist's site via Etsy or maybe even eBay.

As I always say, art is very personal so when you are making such a purchase, please be sure to know your giftee and what he/she may like most.

source: knightfoundation.org

The Spotlight: FABO

FABO (Fabulous Art Buying Opportunity) is a spot like no other in Charlotte. Located on Selwyn Avenue, this shop works with local artists to sell their artwork, handmade pottery, jewelry and more. In addition, FABO sells coffee, tea, wine, bite size snacks and more. FABO is not only a coffee shop (for lack of a better word) but also a gallery of sorts showcasing the work of local artists, all of which are are for sale. While sipping your cafe mocha or picking at your snickerdoodle cookie, you are immersed in the creativity that fills the room.

Owner, Amy Aussieker always loved artwork and traditional galleries but says her idea for FABO came about when she had a hard time affording those pieces in traditional art galleries. "There are so many fabulous artists that don't have the resume to get into some of the bigger galleries but they have wonderful affordable artwork" said Aussieker. Currently she is featuring approximately 20 artists with varied styles and techniques. "One of my favorite parts of my job is when I get to call a new artist and tell them one of their pieces sold" said Aussieker. 

Amy also enjoys chatting with customers as they peruse artwork, stroll in for a meeting or grab a cup of  joe. "I feel like I am constantly hosting a party" Aussieker gushed about her loyal customers.

Speaking of parties, FABO will be having one this Sunday and it is sure to be a treat. It's the FABO's Fabulous Under $50.00 Shopping Event taking place this Sunday, December 4th from 3-6pm. Several artists will be on site while you check out their wares...and of course there will be wine samples and specials. Here is a sample of items you may see on Sunday:

This is a great time to pick up a Christmas gift for someone special, but before picking up anything be sure to remember the giftee's personal style. Also, keep their home design in mind too...if they are traditional you don't want to go with a modern piece. If you pick the right piece of artwork, the giftee should know exactly where to put the item in their home once they open the present, it should mesh with their style very easily. In addition to artwork other items will be apart of this shopping bonanza including jewelry, ornaments, coffee and more.