Art for Gifts 2012 opened at the Staunton Augusta Art Center over the weekend.
The art center transformed itself into a shopping boutique filled with jewelry, ornaments, and all kinds of handmade creations. It gives shelf space to 70 Virginia artists and artisans.
Barbara Whipple, one local shopper, says she prefers the atmosphere over that of a big box store. "I can come in here and see what the inventory is," she said. "It's very clear to me. It's more creative inventory most of the time. I feel like the giveback to the community is at a much higher level, and I'm supporting where I live rather than products from China."
The fine art is housed at the R.R. Smith Center for History & Art in downtown Staunton. Arts for Gifts is available seven days a week through the end of December, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas day.
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Reported by Tara Todd
