Minding Your Business - Creative Arts Center

“We’re doing something new this year for the annual holiday sale,” said Amy Middleton, the Creative Arts Center’s executive director. “The sale opens on Nov. 22, but this year folks can preview the items at a ‘first dibs’ preview party on the day before the show opening.” The preview party is on Nov. 21 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Middleton said the holiday sale includes “mostly small works from the Center’s members and from vendors who participated in the Festival of the Arts this summer.” That means if you saw something you regret not purchasing this summer, you’ve got a second chance!

“The small works sale will feature artwork, jewelry, pottery, textiles, and more; all perfect for gift giving,” said Middleton. 

On Nov. 23, the Center will be buzzing with children aged pre-K and up as they make candy lighthouses. “This event is free, no registration, just show up!” said Middleton. “Children must be accompanied by an adult.” The event is from 10 a.m. to noon. 

The Candy Lighthouse event is right up Middleton’s alley. Before taking on the job as executive director she taught art at Chatham Elementary School and children’s art classes at the Center too. “Monomoy Community Services brought children to the Center this summer and fall so I got to see the kids again then!” she said.

“I started my new job in February of this year, and it’s been great. I love it! Kaitlyn Rice, associate director, and Allie Kelley, administrative assistant, are the best. We make a great team. Carrying on the legacy of the Creative Arts Center has been our privilege.” 

The Center was founded in 1969 and is still going strong offering exhibits, classes, workshops, and of course, the annual Festival of the Arts each summer featuring artisans from Cape Cod and beyond.  

“The Creative Arts Center is a vital part of the Lower Cape thanks to our dynamic team and engaging board of directors,” said The Cape Cod Chronicle’s Justin Alex, president of the Center’s board. “We continue to improve our programming and make the visual arts available for everyone in our community and beyond.” 

“One of the things I wanted to do was have more evening offerings,” said Middleton. “With that in mind, we host Friday evening openings now.  It’s more exclusive because it includes the people who work all week.” We bet she’s got more ideas for next year.

The Center takes a brief two-week break beginning Dec. 14 and will be back in action on Jan. 3 with its Winter Show, featuring artwork from the members. 

In the meantime, start your holiday shopping now for the most unique gifts, all created by hand by local artists.