This December, the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University will open its doors to something brand new—and beautifully local. The museum’s inaugural Holiday Art Market (December 12–13, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.) transforms CAM’s central gallery into a vibrant, festive marketplace celebrating the creativity, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit of Western New York’s artists and makers.
More than 25 regional artists will fill the museum with color, craft, and creativity—offering everything from ceramics, paintings, and textiles to photography, jewelry, and handmade gifts. Each piece tells a story, shaped by the artist’s hand and grounded in the shared culture of our community.
Among the featured makers are ceramic artist AnnMarie Georgia, whose wheel-thrown pottery pairs function with simple, natural beauty; Joelle’s Dolls, bringing whimsical, hand-stitched cloth dolls to life; and Heidi Lauger of hsl photography, whose scenic images of Niagara’s seasons find poetry in everyday views. Douglas Mess’s bold, expressionist paintings bring humor and heart to the walls, while Frederick C. Raiser Jr. (Watercolors by Fritz) captures light and movement in vibrant watercolor landscapes.
The market also welcomes artists such as Jeremiah Kirby, known for luminous plein-air oils that celebrate the quiet beauty of nature, and Kath Schifano, whose plein air paintings of Western New York’s rivers and skies honor the timeless bond between land and artist. Kristin Brandt, a multidisciplinary painter and co-founder of the Urban Canvas Project, brings her dynamic abstract works and artist-designed ornaments—proof that creativity knows no boundaries.
Alongside the art, visitors can enjoy local flavors from Niagara Coffee Co., The Village Bake Shoppe, and 3 Sisters Garlic & Oils, plus treats from the CAM Volunteer Bake Sale and a basket raffle supporting the museum’s exhibitions and public programs.
“Art connects us in ways that go beyond words,” says Jess Minicucci, CAM’s Head of Marketing and Membership. “This market is about more than holiday shopping—it’s about celebrating local creativity and building community through art.”
From one-of-a-kind gifts to moments of connection, the CAM Holiday Art Market is an invitation to experience the season through the eyes of local artists. Come browse, meet the makers, and make art part of your holiday tradition.
📅 Friday & Saturday, December 12–13 | 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
📍 Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University
🎟 Suggested Admission: $5 (Free for CAM Members and children 12 & under)
Learn more at CastellaniArtMuseum.org