Operated by HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, the gift shop features unique, handmade gifts produced by HACC contemporary crafts marketing students, as well as select items from the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen.
"We're a venue that offers unique, handmade, original pieces for people who are interested in finding that special gift for the holidays," said Jessica Lantz, curator of arts and assistant manager. "We want to reach out to non-museum visitors as well to let them know we are here."
Among the artists featured during the event will be Sue Hetrick of Enola and Karen Galbraith of Carlisle.
Hetrick is a multi-media artist who enjoys working with ceramics, glass and metal. Although she recognized her love of art while in her teens, it wasn't until she enrolled as a non-traditional student in HACC's contemporary crafts marketing program that she realized her dream of becoming a "real artist." Among her featured work in the gallery are cheese trays formed from flattened, recycled glass bottles, jewelry created from vintage spoons and ceramic bird houses.
Galbraith is a jewelry artist who uses sterling silver, pearls and a variety of interesting beads to create necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Although she originally viewed her craft as a hobby, it quickly became more than that when she created a website in response to the growing demand for her creations. Named for her grandmother, jumpingjunebug.com features the latest designs by the artist.
Visitors to Radius' open house will receive a free handmade ornament with purchase, while supplies last.
Radius has extended its hours of operation for the holidays. From now through Dec. 23, the craft gallery will be open from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from noon to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. The shop and museum are closed on Mondays.