This December, it’s the most colorful, ahem, wonderful time of the year in the Hudson Valley. Although, if we get down to it, colorful isn’t far off the mark. Between sparkling light shows and vibrant seasonal markets, holiday hues define winter in the region.
Of course, nowhere does seasonal shades better than the Valley’s many art galleries. During the countdown to the winter festivities, local galleries shine their spotlight on the area’s talented creatives and makers during neighborhood showings that are just as perfect for weekend to-dos as they are for gifting inspiration. Take a peek at the Valley’s artsy rundown, then get to shopping and viewing all month long.
Holiday Pottery Show & Sale
Garrison Art Center, Garrison
Through December 15
View this post on Instagram
Celebrate 60 years of the Garrison Art Center by shopping at the annual Holiday Pottery Show and Sale. Running through December 15, the show features more than 30 regional ceramic artists, along with a few jewelers and other artisans. All proceeds from the sale benefit the art center’s programming.
Affordable Art & Pottery Bazaar
Through December 21
Rockland Center for the Arts, West Nyack
View this post on Instagram
Instead of trekking to NYC for gallery tours in Chelsea or TriBeCa, make a straight shot to West Nyack for an affordable alternative in the Hudson Valley. The colorful affair features art ranging from functional ceramics and sculptures to jewelry and ornaments. Shop at the Rockland Center for the Arts to find unique crafts and gifts that will be cherished as you support the local arts and artists.
Annual Holiday Show & Sale
Through December 21
Tivoli Artists Gallery, Tivoli
View this post on Instagram
Running until late December, Tivoli Artists Gallery’s annual show offers a whimsical collection of handicrafts and one-of-a-kind works that appeal to audiences of all interests and price points. Ceramics, small paintings, greeting cards, jewelry, ornaments, sculptures, glasswork, textiles, and photographs are just some of the items that are part of the boutique of wonderful treasures.
Holiday Art Show
Through December 29
The Lace Mill, Kingston
In its eighth installment, The Lace Mill’s annual art show features a wide array of artwork in all styles and media from local artists for you to browse and admire. Shop for original pieces from local artisans at bargain prices, just in time for the holidays.
Whispers of Winter: Art for the Season
Through December 31
Windham Fine Arts, Windham
View this post on Instagram
Join Windham Fine Arts on a journey through snow-blanketed villages and vibrant ski scenes as artists Loreen Oren, Barry DeBaun, and Katie Mahon Kuzin capture the magic of the season. Oren’s patterns emerge from shadows and light reflections of ski lifts on snowy slopes, while DeBaun captures the beauty and serenity of a snow-coated Saugerties, and Mahon Kuzin evokes icy solemnity in her ethereal winterscape.
Unexpected Light
Carrie Haddad Gallery, Hudson
Through January 26
View this post on Instagram
In its winter exhibition, Unexpected Light, the Carrie Haddad Gallery showcases artists who make landscapes in the Hudson Valley. Featuring time-honored artists Jane Bloodgood-Abrams, Harry Orlyk, Leigh Palmer, and Regina Quinn, the show includes new paintings as well as some never-before-seen early works from the painters. If you’re in the market for breathtaking fine art to gift this season, head to Hudson.Â
Holiday Exhibit
December 14, 5:30-8 p.m.Â
Live 4 Art Gallery, Pawling
After an opening reception on December 6, the Live 4 Art Gallery in Pawling is excited to showcase its Holiday Exhibit during Pawling’s annual Champagne Stroll on December 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The art show will feature the works of nine artists who have exhibited in the gallery in the last year, along with glass, photographs, and pottery for the perfect gifting opportunity.
Artists and Makers Holiday Market
December 14-15, 12-5 p.m.
ArtYard Kingston, Kingston
View this post on Instagram
For affordable, handmade art, ArtPort Kingston hosts a vibrant outdoor marketplace and heated tent inspired by traditional European winter markets. Food, crafts, hot cocoa, and more highlight the event, along with art installations and performances.
Related: An Insider’s Guide to December Events in the Hudson Valley