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Central Valley Artisans
Early Summer 2010
by Lynette Johnson
If you’re like most folks, there is no way you’re ever going to own an original work of art by Renoir or Picasso or daVinci or Constable or Warhol or... you get the drift! But you can own and proudly display quality original art, in two and three dimensions and in diverse media, by acclaimed regional and emerging artists, artisans, and craftspersons. Without a doubt, the best place to begin your collection is right here in the Shenandoah Valley! Harrisonburg and Rockingham County offer numerous shops and galleries to tempt, teach, and tantalize you!
Your first destination is a retro art-deco building in downtown Harrisonburg, the home of OASIS, a cooperatively-owned and operated gallery. View and purchase not only paintings, but also jewelry, postcards, photographs, and more—and meet their creator, too! Be sure to come back on your next trip—the exhibits change often!
Braithwaite Studios in nearby Dayton, gallery and home to John and Jane Braithwaite, showcases the couple’s artistic talents and years of experience, with hand-carved hardwood designs and intricately etched carved glass. Their award-winning designs feature both functional furniture and stunning sculpture, ranging from small tabletop pieces to large glass and wood walls. This winning combination of elements will most assuredly enhance your home or office décor.
Art Studio Pottery, in the New Market area, near Endless Caverns, is just what it says—an art studio for resident potter Joan Cordner and a gallery and shop, displaying works by Joan and other independent American potters. You’ll feel refreshed and renewed as you slow down to enjoy both the rustic mountain log cabin setting and the amazing pottery works, in stoneware, porcelain, earthenware, salt-glazed and raku. The Cordners encourage you to hold and touch their pottery—and then take it home to add beauty to your surroundings.
East of Harrisonburg, in the tiny town of Elkton is Solace Studios, where artist Barbara Polin creates and showcases her exquisite marbled artwear. Have you ever seen marbled endpapers on antique books? That’s the look Barbara creates on fabrics and leather! You’ll find Barbara’s creations at high-end boutiques and specialty retailers across the country, but Elkton is her home base—so come and see where the creative process begins! Barbara has expanded her showroom to include unique handcrafts and gift items, the works of many fine Virginia and national artisans. Her shop is a real treat!
Perhaps you’d like the chance to be a central Shenandoah Valley artist yourself. If so, then take your seat at You Made It! pottery studio in downtown Harrisonburg. Select greenware and design and paint away. It’s a fun and relaxing way to discovery your inner artist!
Why settle for frame shop prints when you really can afford original art? Begin your collection this summer in the Valley, and return home to introduce your friends and colleagues to works you’ll proudly display in your home or office!
Article text ©2010, Shenandoah Specialty Publishing, LLC.
May be printed for personal use only.
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