Art Star 1-Year Anniversary Party This Saturday

For those of you in town this weekend, recovered from the excess and debauchery of Thanksgiving dinner and nonplussed by the prospect of standing in line for a sold-out movie, why not come up to Northern Liberties to join the folks at Art Star as they celebrate the gallery-boutique's one-year anniversary? The joint venture of Tyler grads Erin Waxman and Megan Brewster, Art Star always provides at least a few things you didn't see last time-- or anywhere else in Philly. And the store's website promises "plenty of food, drinks, music and fun," which sounds a damn sight better than seeing Steve Martin humiliate himself in more family-friendly cinematic dreck.

When Brewster and Waxman first opened Art Star, they approached their classmates and friend to provide them with their wares to sell on consignment. But as the website and the retail location flourished, it drew attention from artists and crafters from around the country. The shop now exhibits a range of handmade goods that include paintings, sculpture, dolls, jewelry, clothing, kitchenwares, ceramics, prints, plush toys, iPod accessories and more. The eclecticism of the inventory reflects the central role of the many artists and creators who provide it in shaping the gallery's sensibility and charm.

But Art Star has also established itself in the local Philadelphia crafting scene, not only by supporting local artists (who still provide an estimated 25%-30% of the works on display), but by offering classes, as interest warrants, in knitting, crocheting and embroidery. Waxman and Brewster have also opened the doors of Art Star to serve as a venue for arts events, like the Art Star Craft Bazaar they hosted in conjunction with NoLibs' fourth annual "North of the Border" art festival.

The night of celebration will also serve as the opening reception for Art Star's latest exhibit, Ornament. Assembling more than 25 contributors, including Pennsylvania's own Heidi Kenney, the show highlights handmade holiday ornaments, and will run through December 31. Art Star has already won a crowd of dedicated fans in Philadelphia who come for the diverse selection and friendly atmosphere. And with NoLib emerging as one of the city's artistic centers of gravity, it remains likely that the gallery will garner still more well-deserved attention in its second year.

Art Star is located on the Liberties Walk at 1030 N. 2nd Street, Unit 301, Phone #215-238-1557
T-Sa: 11-7 Su: 12-6

Image Credit: Shopping Superstore