I’ve been thinking a lot about shared moments. Moments where lives intersect. I am not talking about intersecting in big, life changing ways, but small moments. Moments that might seem relatively insignificant, like gathering at a beach to watch the sunset or sitting in an audience listening to a musician. A moment that will never exist again. A moment that in the littlest way makes an impact.
At Crooked Tree we work hard at curating opportunities to engage with our community. We love nothing more than curating opportunities where lives intersect. Preschool students proudly holding their art as they bound up the stairs. Teens that chatter about the challenge of painting the portrait of a model. Adults reflecting on how they did not realize that there are so many shades of green. We curate opportunities for students of all ages to experiment, learn and grow.
We believe the process of art making impacts lives in immeasurable ways. To be honest, creative thinking impacts all areas of our lives. We firmly believe that art has the power to bridge barriers by exploring questions, building creativity, and empathy.
Our exhibitions are curated to tell a story, to share a moment, a reflection of the artist. The artwork may give you pause to take a closer look, to investigate, smile or laugh. These experiences might give you new perspectives which could lead to a song lyric, a poem, a photo or doodle on your ipad. Who knows, the possibilities are endless and they are unique to you.
As the year winds down we have curated one last exhibit and experience for you: our Merry Marketplace. We love hosting the Merry Marketplace, an annual tradition for as long as we have been in Traverse City. Over the years that have been a few iterations, but they all share one common theme, celebrating the artists in our community. This year we think we have found the sweet spot, a hybrid if you will. We have curated the work of over 50 artists. We have the Holiday Merry Marketplace in the Cornwell Gallery (main floor) that is chock full of handmade art all priced under $100 for all of your holiday needs. We have everything from artist prints, scarves, beard balm, books, earrings and so much more. To give some ambiance to the space we have twinkling lights and a fire crackling on the big screen (thank you Netflix fireplace!). You can shop in the gallery all week long, Tuesday thru Saturday from 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.
We didn’t stop there. The original Merry Marketplace with artists booths is back for Saturdays only on Nov. 18 and Dec. 2 in the Carnegie galleries (upper level). Each weekend we will feature two emerging artists from area high schools. We know there is no one better to sell their art than the artists themselves. Everyone loves shopping at artist booths, connecting with the artist is such a special opportunity for shoppers and artists alike.
And if that wasn’t enough we have pop up art classes and workshops to help spread the art making cheer. Sign up or drop in for the very popular 3D snowflake workshop. This year we are teaching an all new technique using punch tools and glassine bags. Trust me, everyone will ask where you bought them. We encourage you to register early. Class size is limited and you won’t want to miss out.
In the spirit of shared moments, we encourage you to make a date with a friend and stop by Crooked Tree. Come stroll through the gallery, we are confident that you are going to find more than a few things that will be perfect for you or someone on your list. Last but not least, you can always give a Crooked Tree Gift Card, perfect for an art class or use in the sales gallery.
From all of us at Crooked Tree, we wish you a joyous holiday season!