The gift of art: Just say no to cookie-cutter presents

With Halloween out of the way, it’s time to focus on your Christmas list.

And this weekend, people will have an opportunity to pick up one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry, unique multi-media artwork or stunning local photography.

About 15 fine artists and crafters will showcase their creativity for the annual artisan market at the Johnson County Museum of History. Participants will be selling pottery, paintings, fiber arts and prints, among many other types of art.

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The event will coincide with the annual Holiday Open House held in downtown Franklin, where local businesses will open their doors and entice shoppers with special deals, prizes and other holiday surprises.

For the artists, the event is an opportunity to raise awareness about their work and interact with potential customers.

“It allows me to connect with people. I can find worth in what I do, that people appreciate what I’m trying to do, that I am being creative and sharing my creativity with others, and keep stuff out of landfills,” said Natalie Sirois, an artist who makes jewelry out of recycled items.

Each artist taking part in this year’s market offers something different and special. The challenge won’t be finding something that you like, but rather narrowing your purchases down.

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Artisan Market

When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday

Where: Johnson County Museum of History, 135 N. Main St., Franklin

What: A gathering of local artists and creators showcasing their work.

Admission: Free

Information: co.johnson.in.us/jcmuseum

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