Southport Magazine

Looking for a unique gift and want to support local artists? The Associated Artists of Southport is pulling out all the stops to offer a wide selection of gifts, fine arts, and pottery at Franklin Square Gallery. The associated Artists’ annual event, “Holiday Treasures and Gifts,” is open Monday through Saturday, 10 am-4pm. This year, the Gallery will be open all the way until Dec. 30 (except Dec.24 and 25).

“Paintings in all 2-dimensional media, and pottery, both functional and whimsical,” are part of the show, said Georgia Dalzell, Painting Co-chair for this event. “For the Christmas holiday, these artists are free to create in forms other than their usual for a holiday gift extravaganza.”

“Holiday/Christmas ceramics include, glittery snowflakes (some large, some small), Santa ornaments, humorous reindeer sculptures, angels and elves, beach themed ornaments, large vases with Christmas themed illustration…. Mary and the Christ Child and another with snow-covered evergreen trees… and small star gift tags/ornaments,” said Becky Cleary, Pottery Co-chair. 

A follow-up on the popular Face Mug Challenge held at Halloween, the Christmas/Holiday Mug Challenge now offers visitors a chance to vote for their favorite, and purchase them as well. “The Christmas/Holiday mug wall is filling up too. Visitors are encouraged to vote by dropping quarters in their favorites. All proceeds from the Christmas Mug Challenge benefit the gallery,” said Cleary.

The Franklin Square Gallery is located at 130 E. West Street in historic downtown Southport, right behind Franklin Square Park. A co-op gallery, operated by 125 local painters and potters, its “Holiday Gifts and Treasures” event adds another holiday gift-giving opportunity to the many local festivities. Please wear a mask to protect yourselves and the artists during your visit, and come help this local landmark make it through COVID-19. 

For more information, find Franklin Square gallery on Facebook, on its website at www.franklinsquaregallery.com, or call 910-457-5450.