Local artisans treated visitors to one-of-a-kind finds, from handmade jewelry to original art, at last weekend’s open-air CraftyFest at the ArtPool Gallery, located in the Grand Central area at 2030 Central Avenue. The monthly two-day festival typically draws over forty vendors selling their handmade items and a wide variety of spectators at the buy-local indie market, a favorite of St. Pete residents and tourists alike. Shoppers also browsed a large selection of vintage clothing and furniture, antique household items, vinyl records, funky gifts and plants while enjoying food and drink at the outdoor cafe.
“Our markets are a ton of fun and feature some of the best artisans in Tampa Bay,” said Marina Williams, owner of the ArtPool Gallery, a family business whose mission is to support local commerce and handmade items.
In addition to the outdoor monthly markets, held October-April, ArtPool Gallery hosts art parties throughout the year, such as the upcoming I Love St. Pete event on January 17. One of the gallery’s most popular and well-attended parties, the event features art, music and a fashion runway show from 8 p.m. to midnight. ArtPool will celebrate their seventh anniversary on April 18. For a full list of dates for ArtPool Gallery’s events and CraftyFest markets, visit artpoolgallery.com.
Photo caption: ArtPool Gallery owner Marina Williams helps shoppers make a vintage jewelry selection at Sunday’s CraftyFest.