Place des Arts in Coquitlam has been turned into a Christmas wonderland with dozens of gifts ideas, craft workshops and lovely displays to make shopping local easy.
From miniature works of art to jewelry and ceramics, hundreds of items are available as Place des Arts launches two of its well-regarded annual shows. But do your shopping early as both shows end Dec. 21.
Positively Petite 2012 presents both 2D and 3D miniatures created by over 40 artists in a variety of media. Works range from Carolyn Bruce's steampunk and tea inspired jewelry to delicate fibreworks made by Louise Smith. There is also a wide range of sculptures, ceramics, jewelry and multi-media all in the scale of miniature, which is the theme of this annual holiday exhibit.
Small and beautiful
Also on display, but not for sale, is work by the late John Ostenstad, submitted for this exhibition by his daughter.
Unlike most exhibits, Positively Petite works of art can be purchased on site on the day of viewing and will make beautiful gifts for that special someone, according to communications co-ordinator Kate Lancaster.
Also on tap at Place des Arts is the annual Christmas Boutique Fine Craft Market with hundreds of locally made, handcrafted wares both large and small for the discerning shopper.
"It's a great way to support local artists," Lancaster said.
ARTS AND CRAFTS
For those who like to make crafts, Place des Arts is offering workshops for adults as well as kids of all ages.
For adults, artist and teacher John Kirkwood will reveal the secrets to making a stunning angel in her Papier Maché angels workshop. This workshop takes place Saturday, Dec. 1 and Sunday, Dec. 2 from 1-5 p.m., and is for adults 16 years and up.
Also running in early December for younger children is the popular Christmas Clay Magic workshops on Mondays and Tuesday for two weeks (Dec. 3 and 4 and Dec. 10 and 11). Children ages four to six and six to 12 will have fun getting their hands dirty making clay Christmas decorations and gifts for the special people in their lives.
TEEN PROGRAMS
For older youth, ages eight to 14 years, there is a Felted Christmas Ornaments Workshop on Dec. 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. The youth will learn how to make beautiful felted ornaments, such as bejeweled Christmas balls or a garland of felted stars.
Teens may also enjoy Claymation Filmmaking and graphic novel creation with Place des Arts' popular cartooning workshops. Both workshops take place on Dec. 5 and Dec. 12 with the claymation workshop running from 3:30 to 6 p.m. and the Graphic Novel Workshop running from 6:15 to 8:45 p.m. Visit www.placedesarts.ca or call 604-664-1636.
