THE LOVE OF ART

Owner Tracy Alaia says having a shop of her own has long been a dream. "I've always had a love of art," she says. "My grandpap was a painter."

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A Slippery Rock University graduate and Level Green resident often incorporated artwork into her former job as a recreational therapist at HealthSouth Harmarville Rehabilitation Hospital.

Tracy's been a member of the Norwin Art League since 1997 and has taken painting classes "here and there." Her favorite medium is watercolor.

"I was very inspired by the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts in Shadyside," she says. "I wanted my shop to be a mini version of that."


SHABBY CHIC

One side of the shop is dedicated to a wide array of gift items, including jewelry and other wearables, candles, whimsical clocks, seasonal decorations and much more. There's also a part-time, one-eyed shop cat named Sunny. The name came from a favorite feather necklace and from the notion that finding a feather symbolizes hope and happiness, Alaia says.

The design and atmosphere were inspired by a visit to the Southtown Arts District of San Antonio, Texas. "I wanted a sort of shabby chic look. I wanted it to be warm and welcoming, and I wanted some funny things," she says. "I love to hear people laughing."

Many of the items are made in the United States, others are fair trade pieces from around the globe. Alaia says she's also interested in promoting local artists. She carries "Wood Spirits" wood carvings made by Joann Tipping of Turtle Creek. She also has walking sticks and wooden wall pieces sporting colorful birds made by her own father, Glenn Davis of Manor.

Alaia tapped another family connection for the first exhibition in the gallery. Her brother Lance Davis of Monroeville contributed a show of brilliantly colored photographs taken during his international travels, from the desert Southwest, Europe and Africa. "I have a new artist booked monthly through November 2018," Alaia says. "I think that shows how much interest people have for a gallery in this area of the county."

PAINTING PARTIES

Alaia says the classroom already is drawing interest for painting classes and parties geared to both children and adults, with space for about 20 participants. Similar to Painting with a Twist businesses, Alaia has an array of paintings that visitors can choose to reproduce or she will help them craft their own. There also are various ceramic figures available for painting.

Alaia says the early days have just been a taste of what she hopes to offer. She's planning for aromatherapy information sessions, chalk painting classes and live music. Holiday-themed events also are on the slate. "Winter gets boring," she says. "I'm hoping to liven things up."


STORE HOURS
Monday 5:30 - 8:00
Tuesday - Saturday 10:30 - 3:30
Thursday 10:30 - 7:00


Customer Reviews.....

Tracy is fantastic and her store is full of so many great things. I took my 5 year old for a canvas painting class and I am still in disbelief at how smooth everything went. She is a natural when it comes to kids and a saint when it comes to patience. I loved that her family was involved also! It was a great time, with the added bonus of shopping around and checking out all of the super cute works of art that are for sale. Jess Bires

Tracy has that natural touch with kids! I had my daughter's 5th birthday party today and she was fabulous!!!! The kids had an amazing time painting and dancing! On the gifts side of the store, she carries beautiful and unique treasures! Everyone must stop in and see her selection! Deana Delancey Lhota

Feathers Artist Market and Gifts is a wonderful place! We just had the perfect birthday painting party for my 4 yr old. When we left my daughter said "That's what I want to do when I'm 5, and when I'm 6, and when I'm 7..." LOL. She and all of the children had a fantastic time! Tracy is very talented and this place is very special. Michelle Maggiore Herbst


As a special promotion, Feather's Artist Market & Gifts will be giving away a Gift Certificate every month worth $10, $25 or even $50. Why? Because they know once you visit our store and experience the wonderful service and products you will come back time and time again!


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