Local artists offer gift ideas at affordable prices
Walking sticks by Merle Pfeifer.
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Holiday shopping doesn't have to mean long lines and big-box stores.
There are plenty of local artists and crafts people who make an array of what could be perfect presents.
You don't even have to break the bank to buy one. Many locally made items are in the less-than-$50 range.
Clark County is full of art galleries, craft stores and gift fairs to help you find what you're looking for.
Want some more specific suggestions? We collected a few ideas from four local artists for you.
Valerie Blessley
Company: Savi Clayworks.
From: Vancouver.
Craft: Finnish and Nordic-inspired stoneware pottery.
Price range: $20 to $40.
Website: www.facebook.com/saviclayworks or www.etsy.com/shop/SAVIClayworks
Phone: 360-576-8111.
Philosophy: "I don't think about words when I'm doing my work, but imagery comes to my mind," Blessley said. "My imagery comes from things I've seen and experienced in Finland and also from my Finnish heritage."
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Merle Pfeifer
From: Ridgefield.
Craft: Walking sticks, Christmas ornaments, other wood carving.
Price range: $12 to $65.
Contact: Fiffer@q.com
Philosophy: "I usually go just with what comes to mind," Pfeifer said. "I see something and it gives me an idea."
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Mary Sauter
Company: Zoe's Fiber Arts, Gifts from the Heart.
From: Washougal.
Craft: Wool felted hats and scarves.
Price range: $5 to $250.
Website: http://riverhouseretreat.com/
Phone: 360-837-3351.
Philosophy: "Inspiration just comes from where it comes from," Sauter said. "I've done a lot of poetry with my knitting. It gets me in a philosophical way."
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Laurie Johnson
Company: Prindle Mountain Primitives.
From: Washougal.
Craft: Dolls, primitive Santas, wool mittens, Dutch purses.
Price range: $1 to $50.
Website: www.prindlemountainprimitives.com
Phone: 360-837-3874.
Philosophy: "(My work is) a way to creatively express myself," Johnson said. "I use a lot of recycled items."
