There are a few of notable events happening this week that focus on festive shopping for Connecticut-made art and functional objects. While not necessarily directly related to photography or printing, these spaces are venues for local artisans of all varieties. It's energizing to see what other artists and designers are making and promoting.

Space, 285 Fairfield Avenue, Bridgeport, CT, grand opening Thursday, December 16, from 7-10 pm. This is downtown Bridgeport's brand new original design and handmade store.

City Lights Gallery, 37 Markle Court, Bridgeport, CT, Holiday Cheer and ArtFul Gifts, Thursday, December 16 (and Dec. 23), 5-7 pm.

Ground Floor Gallery at Read's Artspace, 1042 Broad Street Bridgeport, CT, Holiday Art and Music Event, Friday, December 17, 5:30-8:30 pm, featuring the exhibition "Artists Choose Artists"

Elm City Handmade, 71 Orange St., New Haven, CT is part of New Haven's Project Storefronts, and carries an astounding and nicely arranged assortment of local-made items. Wednesday nights folks head over there from 7-9 pm to meet other crafters, make things and absorb the creative juices of the locals at hand.

The Glass Source, 415 Howe Ave. #104, Shelton, CT is having a holiday sale of handmade glass ornaments and gifts made in downtown Shelton, CT. The area has a long history with art glass, and the tradition continues, as the Glass Source does design, restoration, and offers stained-glass classes.

If you are looking for art gifts, photographs, or anyone/anything in particular and need ideas, just drop me an email. I can hook you up with original artists of all ilks. (The ilks pull the reindeer. That's what they don't show you on TV.)

~Lys