Art Market is a holiday shopping tradition held annually in the heart of Calgary. The one-stop sale connects artisans to shoppers seeking unique finds beyond traditional retail. Every November, the event takes over the entire second floor of the Telus Convention Centre. The venue offers ample parking and is easily accessible by public transit with attached hotels and restaurants welcoming out-of-town guests. Since its inception in 1987, the market has grown from fifty to over 200 vendors from a variety of categories including plenty of options for fibre enthusiasts.
Award–winning artist Linda McBain Cuyler shared her unique textile art, featuring one-of-a-kind pieces machine embroidered over her original watercolour paintings. Working on-site with her Husqvarna sewing machine, McBain Cuyler chatted about her process with shoppers while displaying her collection of embroideries, ornaments, and greeting cards. Her design inspiration comes from nature, favouring bright colours taken from gardens and landscapes. The artist’s pieces are available at shops throughout Alberta and on Etsy
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Okanagan Dye Works stood out with its vibrant colours, including a Yellowstone-inspired yarn collection. The shop’s founder, Nikki, brought a selection of hand-dyed bases spanning the spectrum from mohair to super chunky. Her shop also offers DIY kits, Teeswater locks, roving, and needle-felting fibre.
Karen of Love of Linens has grown her passion for flax linen from towels to a full collection of home goods, including her popular reusable produce bags. She educates shoppers on sustainability, touting the benefits of the fibre’s eco-friendly qualities. With neutrals and saturated hues, her pieces feel at home in any decor from kitchen to bath. Love of Linens’ items are available at farmers markets in the Kelowna, BC, area and online.
Art Market is a wonderful example of the thriving artisanal scene in Western Canada. Mark your calendar for next year to peruse the booths, enjoy live music, and sip on a glass of wine or local brew. The sale returns November 16–19, 2023. Visit www.artmarketcraftsale.com for details.
All images by Connie Miazga.