MANSFIELD — Deb Kistner comes to the Mansfield Art Center’s (MAC) Holiday Fair every year to look for Christmas gifts. She said she enjoys the variety, as well as the chance to support local artists.
“It’s unique,” she said. “There’s not that many different places to shop in Mansfield. You can find something really different here.”
The 52nd annual Holiday Fair began Nov. 20 and will run through Dec. 24. The fair showcases the work of artists and crafters from across Ohio, many of whom hail from Richland and surrounding counties.
This year’s exhibition features work from more than 75 artists; including 55 from the Buckeye State.
“All our gifts were thoughtfully selected to support the artists and makers of our community and small businesses from around the globe,” said Jennifer Beavis, the center’s public relations coordinator.
“I think it’s an opportunity for people in our community to shop thoughtfully to be able to support artists and small businesses in our community as well as supporting the Art Center,” she added.
“Instead of just ordering something from a big box store or on the internet, you can come in and choose something very thoughtfully and know that it was handmade by an artist.”
The assortment of items includes original artwork, handmade ceramic mugs with local coffee, amaryllis bulbs from Kingwood Center, hand-carved Christmas trees, children’s books, home decor items, prints from local authors and items made in-house by the MAC team.
There are also additional ways to support the Mansfield Art Center while shopping.
Guests can register for a silent auction that runs through Dec. 19. Ron Abrams donated 13 wood-turned vases and bowls, each made of wood from trees that fell on the art center property. All proceeds will benefit the MAC.
MAC “swag bags” are also available for sale. Each bag includes a glass icicle ornament created in the studio onsite and a bottle of Ohio wine.
Lastly, the Soup au Faire fundraiser will run the weeks of Dec. 7 and Dec. 14. Each entry includes a lunch of homemade soup and dessert, available for dine in or takeout. Seating is limited and reservations are required for dining in. To reserve a spot, call 419-756-1700.
As the sponsor of Ashland Source's Life and Culture section, Brethren Care Village continues its commitment to enriching lives and promoting a vibrant community.
