American Holiday arts and crafts show set at Butler

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Butler Institute of American Art, 524 Wick Ave., will celebrate its 45th annual American Holiday with a preview party for members and their guests from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 4. Reservations are due by Tuesday. There will be a 50-50 raffle and door prizes at the preview party.

The arts and crafts show, open to the public, is planned from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 5 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6. A chance auction with prizes donated by the vendors will take place over all three days, with prize winners drawn at 2 p.m. Dec. 6. During the show, Collections Cafe will be open and also will serve a special buffet.

About 100 artisans, a mix of newcomers and returning favorites, will participate in the party preview and art show. Food available will include Greek pastries, kolachi of many varieties and maple syrup-coated walnuts. Fine art works include watercolor and acrylic and oil paintings, photography, sculpture, leather goods and metalwork. Clothing and accessories for sale will include knitted and woven garments, handbags and jewelry. There also will be ornaments, pottery, toys and wooden items.

The Fine Arts Gallery and the Museum Gift Shop also will be open.

Butler American Holiday events support both the free admission policy of the Butler established by founder Joseph Green Butler Jr. in 1919 and educational programs. Some programs are supported by grants.

Butler’s docents, directed by Joyce Mistovich, provide art education to touring groups at the museum, outreach to schools and community groups and volunteer their time for the holiday show. Students from Columbiana, Trumbull and Mahoning counties and beyond visit the museum each year. For tours and outreach information, call Sal Persin at 330-743-1107, ext. 114.

To become a member of the Butler, pick up a membership application at the museum or call 330-743-1107, ext. 125. Student memberships are $10; individual memberships, $35; and household memberships, $45. Other membership levels are available. Visit www.butlerart.com for information.