By Marrietta Smith

Artists reception 2-4 p.m. Saturday

The artists of Rail Walk Studios and Gallery have once again invited area fine craft artists to join them in presenting the “Festival of Gifts.” A special Meet the Artists reception will be held Saturday afternoon 2-4 p.m. on Nov. 17 at the gallery.

The event is in its sixth year of showcasing the work of local artisans during the holiday season. Festival of Gifts runs today through Dec. 8 at Rail Walk Studios & Gallery, 409-413 N. Lee St. in the historic arts district of Salisbury, Thursday-Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

While Festival of Gifts fills the main gallery, the Rail Walk artists will have their studios available for viewing and will be hosting the “Small Works” exhibit featuring works suitable for gifting. The gallery will be closed Thanksgiving Day.

Show and reception are free and open to the public.

Returning favorites to the Festival of Gifts are: Lesley Alston handsewn items, Bob Jones turned wood, Patty Crocker – Rail Walk artist ceramics, Pamela Sofley- Rail Walk artist baskets and gourds, Sheila Ezzo jewelry, Liese Sadler weaving, Brad Taylor cutting boards, Ed Texlaf tiles, Jessie Hinson pottery, Shirl Hull purses and jewelry, Sue Smith glass art, Will Foster hand wrought metal, Connie Christman pottery, and Mark and Marietta Smith with stained glass pieces. They will be joined this year by Bobbie Killian handmade soap, DeAnna Brandon leather jewelry, Janice McManus jewelry, James Sabo iron, Shay Cohen LP art, and Vickie Clontz felting.

Participants in the show were invited by Rail Walk artists who found their work to be high quality, original, appealing and suitable for gift-giving. Pamela Sofley chairs the event. Pamela was an invited artist from the very beginning and is now a permanent artist at Rail Walk.

Rail Walk Studios & Gallery is home to 10 artists who welcome visitors to view their art Thursdays-Saturdays throughout the year. The back door is a stone’s throw from Rail Walk Brewery and Eatery. For more information visit www.railwalkgallery.com or call 704-469-2781.