Waxhaw is a little place with a lot of magic. The tiny town seems to echo the heartbeat of American culture in so many ways. From the 4th of July parade, which turns Main Street into a smear of red, white and blue, enthusiasm to hauntingly charming Christmas festivities that bring to life a vintage warmth in winter and lighting the darkness with Edison bulbs and real-bearded Santa Clauses, Waxhaw is steeped in authentic atmosphere.
It is not by chance that this little niche flows over with the froth of creativity and kindness. Instead, it is by deliberate design of the people that choose to call Waxhaw “home”.
The night of Friday, October 6 was a poignant example of the active participation of community members in the creation of common good.
Two cornerstones of the South Charlotte art world, Eight Legs Gallery and Stewart’s Village Gallery, dot the landscape of historic downtown Waxhaw. Both shops are owned by a husband and wife team, both exhibit local artists, and both leave a large footprint on the community in many ways.
For the third year standing, these two galleries teamed up to put together an event that defines local leadership and community giving.
The Mini Masters Benefit Charity Art Show and Sale beckons local artists to donate a 5-x-5 inch original painting to the sale. Each piece is sold for $35, and the profits are given in entirety to a local not-for-profit organization.
This year’s recipient of the money raised was Turning Point – a Monroe based center dedicated to the care and assistance of persons dealing with sexual assault or domestic violence.
The sale is expected to raise approximately $1,400 for Turning Point and will continue through October 14.
Friday night, the galleries hosted kick-off parties and supported an impressive turn out with an array of finger foods and refreshments.
Attendees were also treated to live music and good conversation. Several of the artists themselves who had donated their time and talent to the cause were on hand to chat with patrons.
One can hardly imagine a more pleasurable way to spend a warm Friday evening than mingling with artists and musicians while supporting a local community outreach for those in crisis.
If you missed Friday’s opening bash, you can still peruse the Mini Masters paintings at either Eight Legs Gallery or Stewart’s Village Gallery between now and Friday, Oct 14. During this window, Stewart’s is also offering an enticing 20 percent off its merchandise – providing another lure to the shop. Stop by and take advantage of becoming the owner of one-of-a-kind artwork for an attractive price while supporting Turning Point in its mission.
