Shop Local with Lyme Artisans at Guilford Holiday Expo

GUILFORD–The Guilford Art Center (GAC) annual Holiday Expo is back and bigger than ever, this year in partnership with the Lyme Artisans Guild (LAG). 

The art center shop and gallery space at 411 Church Street in Guilford is open daily through Jan. 11 with handcrafted gifts from hundreds of independent artists and makers, according to a GAC press release. Offerings include unique jewelry, home goods, clothing, accessories, ornaments, specialty foods, and more. 

Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. 

The art center’s executive director, Maureen Belden, called the expo a “celebration of creativity and community.” 

“When you shop here, you’re not just finding a beautiful, handmade gift—you’re supporting local artists, investing in their livelihoods, and helping to sustain the arts in our region,” she said. “Every purchase makes a difference.”

The center recognized the Lyme Artisans Guild for its exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to preserving traditional techniques. 

For Guild President Carol Hunts Stanland, the event is an opportunity to showcase the artistry that goes into handcrafted goods. 

She said Guild member Barbara Eaglesham, a mosaicist, will demonstrate gel printing on paper on Nov. 22 from 1 to 3 p.m. Stanland will guide attendees through color and pattern matching in fabric design on Dec. 13 from 1 to 3 p.m.

“We at LAG very much enjoy sharing our process as well as our products,” Stanland said. “Knowledge about process gives our products depth.”

New items arrive throughout the season. Personal shoppers are available to help with selections, and businesses can arrange custom gift packages for employees.

Proceeds benefit the artists and support GAC educational and community programs.

More information is available at www.guilfordartcenter.org or by calling (203) 453-5947.