Gift markets organized by/and for artists are a growing part of the holiday market “seen”—especially what have become known as “small works” shows. Usually organized as open calls for affordable art of all kinds, these shows are not only fun shopping but also a treat for the eyes. Following (in no particular order) are some enticing showings that recently came into view. 

New York Academy of Art, 111 Franklin Street, New York, NY Info

Friday, December 13, 6:30-9:00pm: Deck the walls at NYAA

Over 300 small works of art from Academy artists are for sale. Every year there’s a mad dash for the chance to snag works at a fraction of their value. What’s the catch? All the pieces are displayed anonymously – the buyer won’t know whose work it is until after the sale. 25-50% of the proceeds of each sale at the event go directly to the student artist donating the artwork. This annual holiday fundraiser features small works by Academy artists. Displayed anonymously, they are priced by size at $200, $300, $400 and $500.

New York Academy of Art, 111 Franklin Street, New York, NY Info

Saturday, December 14, 11am-6pm: Powerhouse Arts pop-up holiday market

This “factory for arts & ideas” has partnered with Brooklyn Pop-Up for its first holiday market, which will feature a curated selection of more than 100 vendors selling clothes, jewelry, candles, ceramics, prints, and yes, wrapping paper designed by PHA collaborating artists. Plus: craft-making activities, gift wrapping, DJs, raffles, and more, decking out our Grand Hall in festive style. Get your holiday shopping done and support the arts at the same time! Alpha Workshops Senior Textile Production Artist Rick Zimmer (left) is offering handwoven scarves.

Powerhouse Arts, 322 Third Ave, Brooklyn, NY Info

Continuing through December 18: Eighth Annual Small Works Show at Carter Burden

The Small Works Show presents over 70 gallery artists who have harnessed their creativity on uniform 10” x 10” canvases, resulting in an array of paintings, drawings, and collages, along with photographs and  sculptures. To align with Carter Burden Gallery's principle that art should be for everyone, all artworks are priced at $200, making them accessible to both seasoned and first-time collectors. The exhibition will feature 6" x 6" Art Cards, each available for $20, with all proceeds dedicated to the support of the gallery.

Carter Burden Gallery, 548 West 28th Street, #534, New York, NY Info

Continuing through December 22: Annual Art Sale, Art Students League

The League's Annual Art Sale is a rare opportunity to bring home work by current League students at affordable prices. Begin or grow your collection at this year's sale, where new work is added each day with most works priced below $1,000. Proceeds from every purchase directly support the participating artists and help the League continue its mission of subsidizing fine art education and exhibiting the work of League artists.

Art Students League of New York, 215 West 57^th Street, New York, NY Info

Continuing through December 21: cOLD Times at Viridian

[Advances in AI, and climate change notwithstanding], “the giving of gifts remains an important part of the holiday season. We have so much and yet we want more and we want to express our caring by giving something special to those we are close to. We hope that giving art will become part of the solution and we look forward to seeing you as we celebrate an important tradition for all.” Works under 30” and none priced over $500 by Viridian artists and invited guests.

Viridian Artists, 548 W 28th Street, #632, New York, NY Info

Continuing through December 22: Holiday Market at Studio 41

Studio 41, located in the working studio of printmaker Dianne Martin, includes artists working in a diverse range of mediums who might be in the studio space during gallery hours, at the etching press, or conducting a workshop on their particular technique.

The continuing holiday group exhibitions provides direct access to the local art scene and allow the community with the opportunity to discover and support talented local artists.  Paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry and other handmade artisanal items are affordably priced, appealing to new collectors.Freeand open to the public Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5pm. 

Studio 41, 27-15 41st Avenue – just one block north of Queens Plaza. Info

Continuing through January 6: Gift Island at Printed Matter

“On these tinsel sands you’ll find, / Your favorite artists’ books aligned  / Trinkets, treasures, prints, and more,/ For friends and foes – of that, we’re sure / Zines and merch and objects glow ,/ By artists that we love to show 
While the winter months grow cold, / Find us where these gifts are sold.
 Tote bags growing ever fatter, / Thanks for supporting Printed Matter!”
Please go here for upcoming Sunday art programs in conjunction with Gift Island.

Printed Matter, 231 11^th Avenue, New York, NY Info

Continuing through 12.12.24: Affordable Art Sale at El Barrio’s Artspace/PS109

Looking for a meaningful gift this holiday season? Join @elbarriosaartspace in December, daily from 10am to 8pm, for the Affordable Art Sale and take home an original piece. With all artworks priced under $600, it's the perfect time to support local artists and start (or grow!) your collection. Questions? Email Rolinda.ramos@artspace.org

El Barrio’s Artspace/PS109, 215 East 99^th Street, New York, NY Inf

Saturday, December 14, 1-6 pm: Harlem Art Stroll | Art/Food/Culture

Harlem Arts Stroll is an innovative collaboration of galleries, art spaces & businesses in Harlem from 99th Street to 155th Street. Start your afternoon of exploration at Calabar Galley, at the Refettorio Harlem at Emanuel AME Church, 37 W 119th Street New York, NY 10026 Info

 Big Small Show 2024, The Drawing Rooms, Jersey City 

Watercolor Artist @susangreensteinart invites you to Meet the Artists on Saturday, December 14, from 3 to 5 pm. For the online catalog, please go here

10% of the proceeds raised in this holiday exhibit go to Breast Cancer Research Foundation in honor of longtime friend, art-lover, supporter of artists and past Board President, Danielle Brooks, and the Mary Fong Memorial Lucky Money Garage fund will generously match funds up to $1,000.

The Drawing Rooms at 929 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ Info