Local musicians curate Holiday Expo to promote handmade goods and build community.

When you hear the names Shannon Whitworth and Sarah Siskind, you immediately think of music. Both are established Singer-Songwriters who have impressive touring and songwriting histories. But they share something else in common. They are both visual artists.

Whitworth specializes in mixed media paintings and those who frequent MountainSong Music Festival (hosted by her husband Woody Platt’s band Steep Canyon Rangers) may have visited her art booth full of unique screen printed T-shirts and onesies.

Siskind creates jewelry from findings and beads she collects on tour. After the prodding of friends and fans, she started offering her jewelry at her concert march tables. As demand grew, she honed her craft and opened an online store on the popular e-market website Etsy.

Both women site the creative art community in Brevard and beyond as a hugely important part of their lives. In past years Shannon co-hosted “Whimsical Art Sale” and Siskind hosted something similar called “Art Attack” in her hometown of Winston-Salem, NC.

The event will give customers an opportunity to buy holiday gifts that are handmade and local while helping to sustain the careers of artists. The Cindy Platt Boys & Girls Club of Transylvania County will also be offering Christmas trees and wreaths to benefit their organization.

Alongside Whitworth and Siskind’s vendor booths, you will find home decor, jewelry, pottery and ceramics, wood working, block prints, various fine art and paintings, holiday greenery, up-cycled art, baked goods, and more.

Oskar Blue’s CHUBwagon CANtina Taco truck will provide food for purchase and there will also be beer, wine and hot chocolate. Activities for kids include face painting and holiday movie screening.