Business

This Year’s Must-Visit Holiday Market is an All-Out Celebration of Local Design

By Julian Doyle /

An annual Holiday art and design event that serves as an artistic alternative to the overcrowded malls.

Expertly curated but far from exclusive, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy is recognized for fostering an intimate and supportive atmosphere for the 30 artists that participate every year. Additionally, the market has become a yearly highlight for holiday shoppers looking to buy items made with intent. Over 70 artists have exhibited since the shows began in 2003 as a not-for-profit Artist-run venture.Founded by local artists Janna Hurtzig, Arleigh Wood, Frances Dickinson and Kari Woo, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy was intended to create a space where art, craft and design could intersect. The annual Holiday Market offers everything from artwork and clothing to handmade house ware, each crafted by talented local artists and artisans.“We feel that authenticity is a driving force with our show, which often has more of a Family Reunion vibe than a marketplace”, says Janna Hurtzig. “As artists it can often be an isolating career choice so these connections with fellow makers are an integral part of the show, and creates a welcoming and supportive environment.”Created as an antidote to large-scale craft fairs, the annual Holiday Market focuses on high quality design, craftsmanship and material sensibility, making it one of the most coveted spaces to both shop and sell each year. This year’s market will feature products from:

 In addition to hosting Vancouver’s established creatives, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy also features designers from outside of Vancouver who are looking for both exposure and the encouraging atmosphere that the event is known for. This year’s event will also feature numerous award-wining artists, including Claudia Schulz (Western Living Designer of the Year for Fashion 2017) and Cathy Terepocki (Maker of the Year 2016).As a true testament to Shiny Fuzzy Muddy’s penchant for community support, the group launched an annual emerging artist scholarship in 2015, which provides mentorship, promotion and a booth space at no cost to an artist or maker early in their career. Onlychild Handicrafts, who specializes in beadwoven adornments and heirloom pieces, was the 2017 recipient.Whether you’re seeking holiday gifts or treats for yourself, Shiny Fuzzy Muddy is the perfect place to experience the finest independent art and design currently available in Western Canada. The annual Holiday Market takes place December 9 – 10, 2017 at Heritage Hall in East Vancouver (3102 Main Street – at East 15th Avenue).For more information, visit shinyfuzzymuddy.com

Julian Doyle

Julian Doyle