Jeffrey Dale, artist
By Cornelia Scibetta
At this time of year, our thoughts often turn to shopping for the perfect gift. With the winter holidays approaching, we may feel a slight panic, or we may look forward with positive anticipation to the fun of the shopping experience. There is the list of people to buy for, there is the list of possible places to shop and there is the intended budget. All of these can be important aspects of what can be a fun-filled time. You may have a holiday shopping tradition with a special friend or family member. That time is a gift in itself!
The exchanging of gifts during the holidays dates back for centuries and maybe even as far back as ancient Rome and ancient Egypt. Gifts were simpler then. These may have included nuts, fruits, candies or in some cases a street performance in return for food, drink or money. Gift giving during the winter months also has roots in pagan ritual that found its way to the Magi bringing gifts to the Christ child.
The tradition of gift giving has evolved to the present day with many opportunities for giving and with even more elaborate gifts. Giving a thoughtful gift requires just that: thought. From the process of selecting the perfect gift to wrapping it in just the right paper and tying it with the loveliest ribbon, gift giving can be an art.
So, where does one go to find this perfect gift with the perfect wrapping? Western North Carolina and the Upstate of South Carolina boast numerous art galleries and gift shops—all filled with creatively handmade items in a broad range of prices. A visit to one of these shops is a special treat. Take your time to really see each piece from all angles and to feel the textures. How does a particular piece remind you of your loved one, or how might they enjoy having this piece in their collection?
There can be the simpler and faster way of shopping, that is visiting your favorite website and ordering for delivery to be made to the intended recipient. What fun is this though? Yes, it’s convenient, but does it really do justice to the intended purpose of choosing the perfect gift for this special occasion?
After gifts are purchased comes the planned time for the exchange which can create a lasting memory for the giver and the recipient. Will it be by the Christmas Tree on Christmas Eve? Or with a crowd of family over a delicious dinner, or during a quiet moment one on one?
Who is on your gift list this year? How will you plan for the time to select the most thoughtful gift?
Shop locally in the many lovely galleries and gift shops for a handmade gift. Plan for the perfect timing to give the gift with the kindest words. Make the shopping experience and the giving experience most memorable.
Tryon Painters and Sculptors gallery, gift shop and classrooms are located at 78 North Trade Street, Tryon. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more at TryonPaintersAndSculptors.com.
