Looking for great gift ideas for the holidays? Give something unique and support the local artist community. Check out these galleries on First Friday during their opening receptions. 

The Creative Side, 513 Jackson St

The Creative Side will hold an opening reception from 5 to 9pm during First Friday. Ian Covert, Baylor Gallagher and Miranda Lee will be featured artists. Student artist will display their work as well. Food, face painting and art demos will be provided. 

Ponshop, 712 Caroline St

Celebrate the holidays with Ponshop’s small works show. Featured artists include Scarlett and Gabriel Pons as well as Bill Harris, Daniel Christie, Rob Landeck, Adam Desio, Nicholas Candela and Nathan Webster. Jewelry made by local artists will also be on display. Visitors are encouraged to “Give from the He(art)” and support local artists. The opening reception is from 6-9 pm. 

Brush Strokes Gallery, 824 Caroline St

The gallery will hold an all-member show, welcoming two new members, Sandy Staley and Norma Woodward. Handcrafted items will be available to buy including ornaments, cards, ties, eyeglass cases, glass items, jewelry, paintings and wood carvings. Reception is from 6-9 pm. 

Art First Gallery, 824 Caroline St

Thirty-one local artist will display their work at the gallery throughout the month of December. Visitors are welcome to meet and speak with the artists at the gallery. The reception runs from 6-9 pm. 

Sammy T’s, 801 Caroline St

The restaurant and yogurt shop will feature works by local artists. This month new works are inside from Mirinda Reynolds, Barrett Reynolds and Ed King. Opening reception is from 6-9 pm. 

Liberty Town, 916 Liberty St

Come see “The Really Big Show!” featuring eight local artists. New small works will be featured in the Emporium and students will have pottery on sale. Opening reception is from 5-9 pm.