In the quiet of the universe, let the earth sing a lullaby, as stars twinkle in the winter sky.

       Imagine moonlight glistening on a snowy landscape and magical winter fairies, vibrant paintings that bring joy, and sparkling jewelry that makes the wearer feel cherished. You'll find those at Artists’ Cooperative Gallery of Westerly this month! Art IS the perfect gift, is full of ways to brighten the holidays, and ACGOW's “Starry Lights”  Holiday gift show is full of ways to to brighten the holidays!

       As the Winter Solstice approaches, the towns of Westerly and Pawcatuck prepare for the magical holiday season by hosting the 27th Holiday Stroll and Luminaria on Wednesday, December 4th. As evening falls, walkways, windows, shops, restaurants and of course, galleries will be aglow with holiday cheer. Help light up the night during our Special Holiday Reception during the Holiday Stroll! (Note: Reception is not on the First Friday this month.)

       You’ll find a variety of unique, hand-made gifts, ranging from whimsical ornaments to ceramics, vibrant paintings, mixed media, evocative photography, fiber art, sculpture, prints and more. Our expanded Gallery Shop is also stocked with small, affordable, hand-crafted treasures. Come enjoy festive libations lots of good cheer.  Share the joy! Find something special for a loved one. Our reception will feature artist-provided hors d’oeuvres, and wine generously provided by Perks and Corks of Westerly. 

       The December show will be made possible, in part, by the generous sponsorship of Premier Landscaping.  Premier Landscaping is located in Westerly and specializes in creating installations, maintenance and outdoor living.

       This month our Gallery Shop expands through the entire west wing. The shop features an array of small, affordable works including framed and unframed prints, cards, candles, miniature paintings, bookmarks, colorful coasters, wine glasses, mobiles, fine collectibles and a large selection of hand painted and printed cards created for every occasion.

       Throughout December the Artists of ACGOW will be “adopting” families from the Jonnycake Center of Westerly in their Adopt a Family Program.  Art Patrons are invited to participate this holiday season by contributing gift cards in early December that ACGOW artists will deliver to Jonnycake in December, just in time for the holidays. The Jonnycake Center suggests the following cards - (Walmart, etc.) where a family can purchase necessities and smaller, local businesses (Martin House Bookstore, Remy’s Cycle/Ray Willis Toys, Alley Katz, Get Fired Up, Mel’s Downtown Creamery, etc.) which will serve the special request side of things while also giving a financial boost to our smaller, local retailers.  You might also make the holidays merrier by bringing a donation of art supplies to ACGOW for children assisted by the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center, by December 5th.

       This month we have another special opportunity for giving—to a local art scholarship for two eligible graduating seniors of Westerly and Stonington High Schools! Member artist, Serena Bates, and ACGOW, welcome you to learn about the "Art It Forward" scholarship that Bates founded. Donations of $100 or more made before December 31, 2024, will be entered into a raffle to receive an original work of art from Serena Bates! Winner to be drawn 1/1/25! Please click here to learn more and download both the application and donation forms.

       Our December Holiday Show is made possible, in part, by the generous sponsorship of Premier Landscaping. Premier Landscaping is located in Westerly and specializes in creating installations, maintenance and outdoor living.

       Think about taking a Tammy Blais painting class in January! See our Events and Education pages (click Participate) for details about her winter and spring classes. We hope you have a wonderful, magical holiday season!