Many Long Island shoppers’ go-to for handmade gifts, the Old Town Arts & Crafts Guild in Cutchogue, is open for bustling business this season. Closed for much of 2020, the nonprofit’s galleries are now open noon to 4 PM, Thursday through Monday in the historic home at 28265 Main Road. Select works are also available for purchase online at oldtownartsguild.org.
From December 2 to 23, the Guild’s “Winter Wonderland” exhibition will be on display in its galleries. It will feature members’ take on this seasonal theme with paintings, crafts, pottery, sculpture, photography, metalwork, collage, printmaking, handsewn art, woodworking, jewelry, fiber arts, mixed media, digital art, and wearable art. Free admission daily.
On Sunday, December 5, at 10 AM, the Guild hosts a special holiday workshop with member artist Gayle Wagner who will instruct attendees aged 12 and up in the traditional art of quilling. Crafters will hand-make a paper candy cane. A few spaces are still available to reserve by calling 631-734-6382. The $20 per person fee includes all materials.
On Saturday, December 11, from noon to 4 PM, the Guild’s newest member Stacy Dermont will sign copies of her cookbook and guide to the East End, “The Hamptons Kitchen,” which she co-authored with Hillary Davis. The best-selling regional cookbook in the Mid-Atlantic States features over 100 North Fork wine and beer pairings alongside its original recipes. Admission is free and the cookbook is $29.95. The book is on sale in the gallery every business day, while supplies last. If you already own a copy—come have it signed.
“Things are really picking up, heading into 2022,” said Guild President Bob Kuhne. “We just added a second outdoor craft show at the Southold Historical Society for next summer and we hope to see the return of our weekly summer arts classes for kids.”
Guild members will spend January Wednesdays organizing a busy schedule for 2022 to include offsite shows beginning in February, as well as outdoor shows, artist talks, networking events, gallery exhibitions focused on specific members’ work, the Guild’s annual members show, more classes, fun events for all ages, and much more. “Things are taking off like never before,” said Kuhne. “We’ve seen a surge in interest and sales, and our members are delighted to be here to carry on rich traditions, to share our work, and to teach.”