Rest assured: the cool but pleasant winter weather should hold up for another week. After all, it wouldn’t dare snow during the Plumb Place art show.
Officially called the “Artists’ Holiday Open House,” the show has enjoyed warm weather and warmer receptions since it moved to Plumb Place two years ago. Each December, local artists gather at the 19th century home to show their work, raise money for art scholarships, and support Plumb Place itself.
“Before we had a show in there, I had never been in the place,” said watercolor painter Terry Maxwell, one of the show’s organizers. “It’s just gorgeous in there. And it’s perfect for our show.”
These days, the home provides transitional housing for women in need. For jewelry artist Susan Fowler, that makes the two-day show even more special.
“I enjoy knowing who we’re benefiting,” Fowler said. “It’s heartbreaking when you hear some of the residents’ stories, and then to know they’re getting another chance at a normal, healthy life.”
The show runs from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Dec. 1 and from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. Dec. 2. On both days, 13 different local artists will be showing and selling their work. Admission is free, but donations for Plumb Place will be accepted.
The open house has its roots in an art show that was first held 12 years ago at the home of Hal and Joanne Berger. Space was tight, but there was always room for a few friends, give or take 300.
“Over the years, we were really lucky that no one crashed,” Terry Maxwell said. “People had to park blocks and blocks away.”
“It probably should have been a fire code violation,” Fowler agreed with a smile.
A conversation between Maxwell’s wife Deborah, a fiber artist and jewelry maker and Jill Wheeler, the executive director of Plumb Place, led to the show’s relocation in 2004. It meant more room, more artists, and much more exposure.
“People always walk through and say ‘You’re local?’” Fowler said. “So it’s a chance for us to raise awareness as well.”
Besides Susan Fowler and Terry Maxwell, the other artists with works on display will be:
F Janet Brassart, fiber art.
F Geoff Craswell, drawing.
F Dave Edwards, iron work.
F Josh Finley, drawing.
F John Forsysthe, bronze sculpture.
F Paula Hanlon, stained glass.
F Peggy Lyon, painting.
F Cecil and Lisa McKenzie, blown glass.
F Barb Say, fiber art.
F Jerry Schrock, photography.
The show will include live music and refreshments.