Art and small business gift buying

It may not be the holidays of large family gatherings this year. Who knows maybe that relieves a lot of stress for some. But we all need connection. I continue to me amazed at the connections and support I have made through writing groups and workshops online. Certainly regular phone calls and short outdoor visits with friends go a long way. Won’t it be amazing though when you can run up and give those friends a hug.
Some of my friends are amazing artists and creators. In the spirit of the holidays and connections consider supporting some these creative spirits, send a gift to that person who could really use a package showing up on their doorstep.


Annie Heron Ceramics – I have watched Annie from the beginning, creating pottery, seeing the absolute joy it brings her, and making a living for herself through her pieces. A cup of coffee or tea is sure to taste better in one of her cups.


LeBrie Rich, PenFelt Studio – be sure to check out some of her “way beyond esty” level felted art work. She has introduced some felting kits for all levels to get you through the winter.


Paul Jean’s Garden – Paula is a fellow Southern gal who made her way west to Montana. She lives in beautiful Paradise, MT. One of her woodland lavendar wreaths would make someone very happy.


Joule Art – Terry McIlrath is the artist behind Joule Art paintings, cards and prints. “Artists are the guardians of the human spirit.”


FildiDesign – cool stuff from badass brain – Joyce offers up cool stickers, apparel and more. She also has started a tile business serving Missoula, MT, JOYceof Tile


Savona’s Bitchin’ bohemian boutique – Clothing, jewelry, accessories and more. I worked for Savona years ago. She was my mentor when I opened my own vintage re-sale store, offering up her business sense and good taste.

Susan Carlson – See the world through Susan’s collage, it’s a treat.

Cry-kerchief – Taj hand embroiders kerchiefs, a place for your tears to land. Custom orders welcome. Find her on instagram.

I always have photo greeting cards available for purchase, my heart puddle is perfect for almost any occassion.


Heart puddle greeting card

Comes with envelope in clear sleeve.

$3.00

Support artists and local

I keep hearing of people wanting to find ways to help out. Blood can be donated, I did that. Word has it they have a surplus supply because people are giving blood and not much need for it right now. Staying home is a way to help, but not very satisfying.

There are some excellent artist and local businesses that could use our support. Here’s a list of some dear to my heart in Oregon and Montana mainly.

Tsunami Books – local bookstore in Eugene, order and pickup available.

Also, features Annie Heron ceramics.  Annie sells at Tsunami and also through her website.

Joule Art – Terry McIlrath’s paintings, prints and cards. Birthday cards and more

Susan Carlson – amazing mixed media artist from Missoula, MT.

Lee Rizzo, go fund me album – beautiful singer, song writer.

PenFelt – Lebrie Rich, duchess of felt, offers felt art, workshops and recently face mask. Need a felting project, check out felting kits, Mushroom felting kit

Sweet Life Bakery – Sisters, Catherine and Cheryl, create artistic baked goods and employ locals. Craving a cookie and expresso, open and following sanitation guideline

Paula Jeans Garden – from Paradise Montana, Paula’s lavendar creations are magical.

Steven Begleiter Photography – award winning photographer, also publishes instructional photography books.

To be expanded upon. Feel free to add any of your favorites in the comments and I’ll add them to post.

Susan Carlson’s mixed media:

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Susan Carlson

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Susan Carlson

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Susan Carlson