I have to share some of the advent art excitement that has been happening here on Gabriola Island (and in my home) for the past 11 days!  Since December 1st I have been opening a special package each day from another local artist.  Each gift has been wrapped with love and tagged with bold number to help us get into the spirit of counting down the magic of the holidays. For me, the advent is marking the days until we see our French cousin on the 13th. How perfect since her visit will certainly be the highlight of this Christmas for us.

Each of us created 12 gifts – this included an extra one for the gift basket we auctioned off at a local fundraiser for the People for a Healthy Community (PHC). The basket raised over $500 for this important local charity and the generous purchaser then donated the basket of gifts back to the PHC. Not sure yet if the gifts will be handed out to some of those in need who rely on the support of PHC or if the basket will be raffled/auctioned again.  Either way, double love to the community thanks to this art exchange!

Today is Day 11 and everyone is opening a wee painting made by me. I hope these gifts of art will make them smile and help them pause to consider all the joy and colour of this sometimes hectic time of year.

How nice to share creations with other amazing women artists from our talented community! Pottery, paintings, sculptures in metal and fabric and more, handmade soap, jewellery, and even a handmade journal!  And still one day to go….

The artist who started it all, Jennifer Lynch, has been posting about this art exchange on her blog.  Have a peek at the wonders of it all and definitely take some time to look more closely via the links provided at the other artists involved. I am sure their creations will also make you smile!

Here’s to counting down the days (never before have I been as excited as my children with the daily advent surprises) and creating hand made gifts for the holidays!