Sisters Art Works hosts holiday open house

There's no place south of the North Pole that bustles as much as Sisters Art Works (SAW) on Saturday, December 1.

That's the day folks in Sisters Country to enjoy art created by top regional artists, shop for unique, handmade gifts and support local charities.

The free Sisters Art Works Holiday Open House runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

"I think it's going to be one of the best shows we've ever had," said SAW owner and event organizer Kathy Deggendorfer.

There will be live music from the Sisters High School Jazz Choir and from accomplished harpist Rebecca Smith. Crafter Janet Zuelke will turn the arts center green.

"She's got really amazing local greens and is making all kinds of centerpieces and wreaths," Deggendorfer said.

A favorite element of the open house is Pet Photos with Santa. Folks from across Sisters Country make it a tradition to bring in their beloved four-legged (and winged) critters to get a professional shot with St. Nick (whose talents, Deggendorfer notes, extend beyond inducing reindeer to fly, to being a "dog whisperer"). Photos are picked up at Sisters Feed & Supply. Proceeds benefit the Furry Friends Pet Food Drive.

Many of the artists involved in the show create holiday plates and platters; proceeds from sales benefit the Sisters Kiwanis Christmas Food Share Program.

Several of the vendors offer delectable food items, from cheeses to jams and jellies.

The juried show features a who's-who of Sisters Country artists and crafters; for a full roster visit http://www.sistersartworks.com.

Most of all, the event is a fun gathering, an opportunity to share the spirit of the season with friends and neighbors.

As Deggendorfer notes, "It's a fun way to get together and celebrate what makes Sisters a great community."