It’s that time of year again, where we are all out scrambling to find that perfect gift for those that we love. I am not sure how our society has found itself so far removed from the true purpose of the holiday season. A shopper’s love is now reflected into $$$, and whatever the latest hip thing that is being shown in advertisements and/or discussed among your peer group – that is what you’re asking “Santa” for. I get it – people want to fit in, be cool or to keep up with the neighbors. It’s all about the look, the outward appearance, and how others perceive a person. Whether a person is 17, 25 or 41, we happen to all fall into this grouping at some point, and maybe we never grow out of it.
In any case, I would like for us to consider something new this season. Maybe some of you take the time to create something with your hands for a loved one. I know I always get a knitted object from one of my aunts every year, and boy does she make great scarves. I also have a friend from grad school that makes a video holiday card every year and sends it her friends via Vimeo. And years back when I was living in Oakland, a musician group of friends got a cabin together in the snowy hills of the Sierras, and we created a holiday album that we then played live at a bar back in Oakland. Oh man, those were some good times. I personally love receiving gifts that took others time in creating.
^Indigo Gallery
While you’re contemplating that perfect gift, look at what’s around you. Buffalo has a plethora of artists and artisans that create original works. This past weekend walking around Allentown, Elmwood and Hertel, I felt like I was only able to see just the tip of the iceberg.
Here a few artists and places to check out if you haven’t already:
Hertel Avenue – OMG, there is so much happening over there. You could spend your whole day there, between the great Italian Food, the cute old dive bars, North Park Theatre, the antique & furniture shops and clothing stores. Both sides of the streets are filled with old staples such as Bertha’s Diner or Joe’s Deli and newer restaurants that take a twist with traditional cuisines. Breakfast, lunch and dinner all in one place. While you’re strolling be sure not to miss Wrafterbuilt if you are on the market for handmade furniture and wooden gifts.
On Elmwood there is what I like to think of as a hidden gem, the Benjaman Gallery. They represent mostly modern era artists, but upstairs have works by local contemporary artists. Come next year, the contemporary collection will establish a new home on Richmond/West Ferry, while the modern works stay located on Elmwood. Their current show is a benefit for The Nichols School Fund, with a portion of each sale from the Wes Olmsted collection being donated. There are some great works available, but I would hurry, I saw some red dots.
In Allentown you have a great mix of art galleries, restaurants and bars. Places not to miss for buying art made by talented local artists – Glow Gallery, Indigo and Studio Hart. All spaces have special works on sale for the holiday season. Other spaces in the area to check out, Buffalo Big Print Studio that has a ceramicist and watercolour artist on view, and El Museo Gallery (a non-profit space) has a tribute show to William E. West, Sr, and is starting a new membership program in the coming year, so be sure to inquire.
As you begin to spend money this season, please don’t forget to make your end of the year 100% tax-deductible donation to that art non-profit that your kids have taken classes at or those you frequent for shows. Our cultural institutions play a vital role in the make up of this city, and without them one would have to travel long distances. This city is of course known for the Albright-Knox and the Burchfield, but the core roots of the experimental and underground scene were established between Cepa, Hallwalls and Squeaky Wheel. Each has diverse planning and exhibit local, regional and national artists. If you are not currently a member of one of these organizations, I would look into it-you can get free or discounted admission to events and/or workshops, and opportunities to exhibit your artwork, and each organization offers discounted rates to artists. There are also newer organizations to check out like Dreamland and Sugar City that offer an array of art, film and music, for next to nothing door charges.
Last and definitely not least, buy from the source. Whether this be directly from the artist whose work you see in a coffee shop, or from a gallery, like BT&C Gallery on Niagara who represents only local contemporary artists, or Nina Freudenheim whom operates the longest running gallery out of the Lenox Hotel. No need to go to Toronto or NYC when you can find that quality right in your own backyard.
Nothing says I love you more than an original piece of art.
About the author / Tina Dillman
First and foremost an Artist, Tina has taken on many roles during her lifetime. At the mere age of 36, she has held multiple positions and developed arts organizations, including Project Grant here in Buffalo. As an Artist she is interested in working with her community in developing the cultural backdrop that we call home, in making the surroundings a beautiful and inspiring place to be. Tina has published previous writings in the area with Art Voice and The Public, and also established The Public’s art gallery listing. Tina is also currently employed with Manuel Barreto, as the gallery manager and Squeaky Wheel Film & Media Arts Center.
Direct questions or comments about this article should be sent to Tina Dillman / Tina@BuffaloRising.com.