It’s been reported that holiday shopping (including online) could be affected by the pandemic this year, making shopping more challenging due to supply and shipping delays.
This winter is a great time to shop small, and buy unique handcrafted presents while supporting local artists and businesses. Two especially local artisan markets are upcoming at venues both well known and well loved by Ann Arborites.
Winter Artisan Market: Saturday Dec. 4th (11am-8pm) & Sunday Dec. 5th (10am-4pm)
York will hold its second annual Artisan market the first weekend of December. The market will be held inside the cafe and outdoor in heated tents, as well as in the neighboring space of StudioStudio.
DJ Batz will be spinning eclectic tunes from his vinyl collection and there will be hot cider, seasonal cocktails, and food for sale. Within this festive ambiance, there will be a selection of local artists where you’re sure to find holiday gifts for someone on your list. Among the 30 artist vendors (some new to this year), there will be photographers, ceramicists, jewelry makers, chocolatiers, and more.
York has been providing a wonderful outdoor gathering place during the pandemic, including fire pits in the yard and hosting many food pop ups. Event coordinator Olivia Chadwick stated, “owner Tommy supports small businesses whenever possible.” By hosting various events in our community, York has become as much a community center as it is a popular neighborhood watering hole.
Bonus: Friendly dogs are welcome in the yard!
Covid Precautions: Masks are required while moving about indoors.
York Cafe and Yard, and StudioStudio (next door), 1928 Packard Street, Ann Arbor. https://www.yorka2.com/events
Sunday Dec. 12th (10am-2pm)
Argus Farm Stop, well known for sourcing local produce and goods, will host its 5th annual Argus Artisan market on Dec 12th.
16 vendors will showcase their artwork, including jewelry, ceramic, fiber, art and more, in the lovely greenhouse as well as in an adjacent heated tent. Stop by for a treat or beverage from the cafe or if you’re already downtown, walk over to their convenient location to see the unique items for sale.
In addition to shopping for gifts you can also purchase fresh produce, and support your local food producers. By organizing events such as this one, Argus, gives the opportunity for vendors to connect with the community. This is a key part of the mission of Argus Farm Stop, which has become, over the years, a city favorite.
In the words of manager Meg Goldwyn, “Markets like this one are special because you can meet the artist and hear the stories behind their creations. You are taking home an item that someone has really poured their creative energy into.”
Covid Precautions: All staff and vendors will be masked. Unvaccinated customers are asked to do so as well.
Argus Farm Stop, 325 West Liberty Street, Ann Arbor
Mia Risberg is Current’s Art Columnist and a local Ann Arbor artist. If you have an upcoming art feature to share, please email: annarboreditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com
Additional Art Shows to Consider this Winter:
75 Artists / 25 Authors / Specialty Food / Crafts / Make & Take Art
Three Heated Buildings / Food Trucks / Gifts from $5 – $5000
Purchase Advance Tickets for $3 – $5.
Dec. 4 from 10am-6pm & Dec. 5 from 11am – 5pm
Located at the Washtenaw County Fairgrounds 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road, Ann Arbor
“Colors and Moods of the Season” at Kerrytown Concert House
Exhibition Showing: Now – January 3, 2022
(open weekdays from 10am – 5pm & weekends for concertgoers)
Art Reception: Thursday, December 9TH from 6-8 PM
Featured Artists include: Sibel Ozer, Kath Frajbis, Cheryl Chidester, Lidia Kaku, Sophie Grillet, & Thomas Rosenbaum
Kerrytown Concert House is located at 415 N. 4th Ave.
Holiday Artist Market at Gutman Gallery
The Guild of Artists & Artisans will host its second annual Holiday Artist Market in downtown Ann Arbor’s Gutman Gallery.
Nov. 26-Dec. 23: Tuesday – Thurs. 11a – 5pm / Sat. 11am – 7pm
Featuring works from more than 60 artists, artist trunk shows, free gift wrapping on Fridays and other promotions and special events.
The Gutman Gallery is located at 118 N. 4th Ave.
