While the big box stores are clotted with cutthroat corporate consumers this holiday shopping season, locals have a chance to enjoy a serene, inspired experience thanks to the Lompoc Valley Art Association’s “Christmas Holiday Show” showing at the Cypress Gallery in Lompoc.
The Lompoc Valley Art Association is a collective of local artists, numbering in the triple digits, explained member and publicity director for the association Vicki Andersen. All in all, though, the “Christmas Holiday Show” will feature the works of about 40 of the member artists. This is a bit of a change from their usual setup at the Cypress Gallery, which includes a featured artist.
“The entire gallery is a member show,” Andersen said. “Plus everybody brings in all their handmade Christmas decorations and smaller, handmade gift items.”
Such items vary, Andersen explained. There are small keepsakes, cards, prints, and figurines. The focal point of the show is the metal Christmas tree, on which hang
member-created ornaments.
“Of course there is some more expensive price tag art in there if you want to get a nice painting,” Andersen said. “But we have a lot of very nice handcrafted gifts and decorations.”
The Lompoc Valley Art Association founded the Cypress Gallery in 1994 with the help of the city of Lompoc for a location. The association has been around since 1966. The holiday show has always been a tradition and a chance for the association’s members to share their seasonal wares.
“Well, I probably see it differently because I’m an artist,” Andersen said, “but to me it means so much more to receive a gift that is a one-of-a-kind item.”
A reception event with a chance to meet some of the artists is Dec. 15 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Cypress Gallery at 119 East Ocean, Lompoc. The reception event will feature a chance to meet member artists including Betsee Talavera, Rosalea Greenwood, Terry
Taylor, Angie Hamlin, Linda Gooch, Joellen Chrones, and Lisa Freeman.
“We are trying to encourage the community to buy from local artists and support small business,” Andersen said. “It’s just that much more special that it was created by a single person who made this single piece.”
The Lompoc Valley Art Association’s “Christmas Holiday Show” is open for viewing at the Cypress Gallery through Dec. 27. The show features media of all types, from paintings to jewelry, all made by locals.
“I really am a believer in shopping local and keeping the smaller businesses going,” Andersen said, “because usually those smaller businesses is where the more unique things are, and the more personalized service.”
Arts Editor Joe Payne is unique. Contact him at jpayne@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Dec 13-20, 2012.
