We all know Athens has that shop-local, support-local vibe. Everything from contractors to caterers to restaurants, wares, and more, this town is flush with small business entrepreneurs offering goods and services that are truly one-of-a-kind. One organization that often doesn’t get enough word of mouth is the Athens Art Guild. And if you haven’t been to their Friday morning market – you’ve been missing out. Let’s get introduced to this creative community powerhouse!
Athens Art Guild: Who Are They?
The Athens Art Guild (AAG) is a local non-profit organization for artists from Southeast Ohio that supports providing artists with a platform for publicizing and selling their wares. Their members include craftspeople of things like ceramics, wood-working, jewelry, painting and printing, soap-making, and much more.
Not only can artists participate year-round, but AAG also has a Holiday Shoppe each year, and this year has a fest at the Dairy Barn as well! AAG is truly a manifestation of the culture of Athens and Southeast Ohio – a locally-operated non-profit elevating local small business ventures.
Quick Profiles on Some Athens Art Guild Vendors
So, who can you find at AAG’s Friday morning markets? A bunch of really talented artists! Some of the unique crafts and wares you’ll find include:
Cricket Jones: Arguably the most well-known jewelry-maker in Athens, Cricket makes some really cool rings, earrings and more by recycling vintage and antique flatware. Their spoon rings are to die for.
Jeanna Fox: This is such a local musician vibe, and we love it. Jeanna creates bracelets and rings from recycled guitar strings that she sources from small music shops around Southeast Ohio.
Southeast Ohio Fiberworks: Run by Lisa Heins, she sells gorgeous hand-dyed yarns for knitters, crocheters, weavers, and more. She uses acid dyes right now, but is planning to experiment with plant dyes soon!
Betty Ranck Photography: If you’re looking for beautiful prints capturing the Appalachian scenery of our area, this is the shoppe to find them. Her style of photography is a perfect fit for those who have a love of the outdoors and our little corner of the Appalachian foothills.
Kevin Smyth: We can’t say enough good things about Kevin’s hand-crafted live-edge tables. They’re functional, locally-made, and absolutely gorgeous.
Mockingbird Ridge: Run by Kathy Abfall, these wares have a unique story and unique style – she’s learned how to apply alcohol inks to metals and glassware. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind, high-end glass sets, Kathy’s the perfect artist to check out.These aren’t the only talented people you’ll find at AAG. Check out their website to see the full member directory. And catch all these artists every Friday morning from 9am to noon at the Athens Community Center.