If you missed all the local holiday markets that happened last weekend, no worries. You can get a lot of shopping done at Indy Gay Market’s Big Gay Holiday, 4 to 8 p.m. Dec. 8 and 9 at the AMP at 16 Tech. It’s free and open to all ages.
Each day will feature a different vendor lineup, with 120-plus vendors for both days. Of course, the best part of going to the Big Gay Holiday is getting to know the local artists and creators. Here’s a sneak peek at seven you’ll meet, along with some friendly chit-chat prompts.
Friday, Dec. 8
Rico Tsujimoto, Novel Knot Designs
Make your tight-knit crew feel appreciated with Tsujimoto’s macrame goods: plant hangers, ornaments, pacifier clips, key chains, wristlets, lanyards, DIY kits, dog toys, and other small gifts.
Ask Tsujimoto about: The mini car plant hangers. “They each have a diffuser inside so you can drip in your essential oils. Cute and functional.”
Cameron Adams, winterwitchcrafts
Stop by for original linocut prints–and a learning experience. Cameron also sells jewelry made from clay and from miniatures and toys.
Ask Adams about: The linocut process. “If anyone is ever interested in how that works or why I made the designs that I did, I’m happy to discuss.”
Megan Senate, Jackalope Gems Arts
For small and unforgettable keepsakes, visit Megan Senate, who will be selling illustrations in the form of homemade stickers, art prints, cards and more.
Ask Senate about: “My favorite question to answer is when people pleadingly ask me, while looking directly into my eyes, ‘Why?’ Or I suppose less dramatically, when people ask me what inspired certain pieces. Each one has a little story.”
Nick Pattengale, nickypatty ceramics
Remember you can’t spell functional without fun–see Pattengale for hand-made, usable pottery.
Ask Pattengale about: Escaping his recent employer. “I took part in a big walk out at my old toxic job, so I’d like to have people ask me how many mugs they can buy.”
Saturday, Dec. 9
Ashleigh M. (Ash) Ferreira-Bartlett, A TinyArtGarage
Browse Ferreira-Bartlett’s original paintings, collages, digital and cyanotype art, resin pieces and design apparel.
Ask Ferreira-Bartlett about: Anything. “I’m the definition of an open book. I mean it when I say, ‘Ask me anything.’”
Megan Fisher, Pudding Overlord
Fisher has the stocking stuffers that make people feel seen: art prints, keychains and charms, stickers, decals, magnets, jewelry, pins, sticky notes, pencil bags, tote bags.
Ask Fisher about: Why she creates. “My main goal when creating art for others is to cause some sort of emotion, like laughing, smiling, excitement, sadness–it means that there has been a connection.”
Benjamin (Benji) Sebring, bouquets x benji
For the winter romantics, Sebring will host a bouquet bar where you can create your own floral arrangements.
Ask Sebring about: How to make the best bouquet. “My assistant and I will be there to guide everyone through the process. Our motto is, ‘More beauty. More life. And always love.’ And what better medium than flowers?”
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