Each year, the magazine recognizes and honors craft galleries for their efforts to strengthen the industry, support fair business practices, educate the public and mentor artisans. SEASONS is truly thankful for this recognition, but more importantly, for the creative, wonderful artists we represent, the customers we serve and for a loyal and talented staff.

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We had a fabulous 10th Year Anniversary Celebration on Friday, October 1, 2010. Susan Westley Seeger was our featured artist….the show was spectacular and extremely well-received. In addition, Bob and Al (The Wine Guys), surprised us by wearing tuxedos…very fun. We had a great crowd who seemed to enjoy Sam Salter’s music, Linda’s classic appetizers, as well as great art and conversation. We were also able to raise a generous donation for YOUTH ACTION HUDSON.
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Now, we are moving on to the holidays…we kicked them off on Friday, November 5th. The gallery has been transformed with a touch of the holidays every where you look…it is delightful. Our theme this year is Tradition with a Twist. We have many traditional elements that are displayed in fun and charming ways. We hope all our customers will have the opportunity to stop in and enjoy the festive nature of the gallery. We are featuring many holiday items including ornaments by Steve and Katia Pflipsen, Thomas and Rebecca Maras, Lauri Wilson, Mike Carlson, Christine McGrath to mention but a few. We also have some great metal work by Prairie Dance and the Glocke Glass Christmas Trees. The trees were featured in Midwest Living and have been flying out the door.

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In addition, most of the gallery artists have brought in new work that will certainly meet most gift-giving needs.

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Other signs of spring include new work that artists are bringing in to the gallery. We just received some beautiful new platters/bowls by Marc Matsui. Marc’s fine porcelain bowls with brilliant colors transform clay in to a canvas. His pieces are simple in form, outstanding in craftsmanship and appropriate for home , office and gift-giving occasions. We are also anticipating new work from Christine McGrath….lovely boxes, vases, picture frames and clocks that incorporate contemporary fabrics with glass. And, we can’t wait to receive a new selection of black ware tiles from Laura McCaul, an exceptional Wisconsin clay artist that we have had the privilege to represent for years.

The American Craft Council Show opens in St. Paul on April 16th. We always look forward to this event that is literally 20 minutes west of the gallery. Naturally, we look forward to seeing new artists and their work. However, we also like to cheer on the artists we represent. If you are able to go to the show, you need to seek out Steve Pflipsen and Katia Pflipsen Olivova. Their work just keeps getting better. Katia’s unique jewelry is exceptional and their collaborative glass/metal pieces are beautiful…almost beyond description. You will also want to visit Lauri Wilson’s booth. This is Lauri’s first year in the show and we really hope it is a winner for her as her work is impeccable. Some of our other favorites include: Fred Kaemmer (glass), Kelly Marshall (textiles), and Michele Friedman (jewelry). Enjoy the show.