New Westminster residents have a unique chance to shop for one-of-a-kind, hand-created gifts this season, thanks to New West Artists.
The artists group is hosting a Christmas Pop-Up Gallery for the month of December at 712C 12th St., in the shop next to Renaissance Books.
“We’re always looking for exhibition space, and we were very fortunate to come across this one,” said Julia Schoennagel, president of New West Artists.
Schoennagel noted the group found the property through the landlord of one of its members; the landlord offered the space at a good rate for the month of December so New West Artists could hold a show and sale.
The resulting pop-up gallery, which is being set up now, will carry work of all kinds, from large paintings in all mediums to small works of art, cards, bookmarks, jewelry, crafts and more – all made locally by group members.
New West Artists has about 50 members, and Schoennagel expects anywhere from 20 to 25 of them to take part in the Christmas pop-up. Works will constantly rotate so there will be something new to see every few days.
Schoennagel hopes people will pop in to visit with the artists – some will be there to offer demonstrations and chat about their work – and, of course, to buy gifts for the holidays.
“It’s perfect timing, because it’s before Christmas and we hope lots of people will come and buy art for Christmas presents,” she said.
The shop will be open Thursdays through Sundays from noon to 6 p.m., with extended shopping hours on the evenings of Dec. 7, 13 and 14, when it will be open to 8 p.m. There's also a special opening gala on Sunday, Dec. 2 from 1 to 5 p.m.
In the long term, Schoennagel said, the artists group is working on a plan to use the space in the new year. She’d love to see interest from other art groups in the city in forming an alliance to use the space for exhibits, workshops, demonstrations and meeting space.
In fact, the group is holding a public meeting on Monday, Nov. 26 at 6:30 p.m. at Century House to discuss that idea. Anyone in the community who’s interested – particularly artists, artisans, crafters, writers and others who might benefit from a shared space – is invited to turn out at the meeting to find out more about the plan and help make it come to fruition. Participants would be asked to volunteer about six to 10 hours a month to help make it work.
Those interested are welcome to turn out at the meeting or to contact Schoennagel in advance: 604-519-1227 or president@newwestartists.com.
In the meantime, Schoennagel is hoping the Christmas pop-up shop will help spark an interest in locally created art.
“Before Christmas is the perfect time,” she said.
The shop will be open Dec. 1 to 30. See www.newwestartists.com for more on the group.
