Lao Tzu says, “It is the empty space which makes a bowl useful.” A bowl is symbolic of holding, giving, offering, receiving, filling, and gifting. A bowl is open: open for possibility. A bowl can be efficient and sufficient. In Buddhism, generosity is the ground for everything else. Small kindnesses make a difference. Let’s each prepare to fill, offer, gift, give, and be open to receiving small kindnesses throughout the holidays and new year. Practice generosity not only to others, but to yourself as well. Begin anew with an empty bowl. ~Paula Bandy

Starting December 1, our newly-curated gift shop will be open Thursdays from 12–5pm through December 22. Shop for one-of-a-kind artisan-crafted items from silk scarves and jewelry to clocks, bots, and books! Plus, our gallery of fine art is open for your shopping needs. Gift certificates are available.

Please be sure to visit the gallery to see a fresh collection of fine art by our members in the Main Gallery. This month’s shows open Friday, December 2, and continue through Sunday, January 1. Join us for a festive reception on Saturday, December 3, from 1–3pm.

The 10th Annual Angels Show is our Guest Exhibit this month. Come see a wonderful variety of creative interpretations of angels by artists from across southern Oregon and beyond! So far, this year’s entries include both paintings and freestanding pieces in pure abstract, impressionistic, and realistic styles, with more expected by the time we hang the show.

Our December Member Artist of the Month is talented woodworker, Chris Anderson. To create his bowls, Chris often uses local wood he’s gathered from firewood piles, walks, felled and fallen trees, and the Jacksonville cemetery. Each has a spirit of its own, and each can be half-full, half-empty, full, or empty, but always refilled. Please join us at the gallery on Thursday, December 15, from 6–7:30pm as Chris guides us through his process of crafting a bowl.

On Saturday, December 17, we will celebrate Jolabokaflod, an Icelandic tradition of book gifting and sharing. Details TBA.

For January, we celebrate Member Artist of the Month, Brenda Mills Brannan. Of her work, Brenda says, “My art is a continuous process of self-discovery. Sometimes spontaneous, sometimes as a healing process, but always evolving. I accept and embrace the journey of change. My passion for art has been a gift to myself and those who join me on my journey.”

We are delighted to announce Art Presence Art Center as the premier fine art gallery to partner with Rogue Valley Vintners (RVV). As members, we will collaborate with RVV to promote art and wine throughout the Rogue Valley and beyond. Watch for tastings, dinners, parties, and special events coming in 2023 to Art Presence!

Naked Art returns to the Main Gallery in January. You know how it works—members bring their fine art and hang it “naked” in the gallery without matts or frames. You get to add to your collection of fine art at dramatically-reduced prices and frame them the way you want.

More highlights are slated for January, but details aren’t confirmed. Check https://art-presence.org for upcoming announcements.

Featured image: “The Cello Player,” painting by Pegi Smith