Water Street Studios in Batavia presents artistic valentine gift events, plus online shopping

Select artists will be setting up in the main gallery and in their studios at Water Street Studios in Batavia with unique handmade gifts for Valentine’s Day. Shop directly out of working artist studios for a unique shopping experience dubbed Shop Artist Made.

This is a wonderful way to shop local and put money directly back into our local economies, a news release stated. With art fairs and markets closed, many artists and artisans have not had many opportunities to connect with the public. A team of Water Street Studios artists started this market on a whim during the holiday season and the organization is now extending it, hoping to see it grow.

“A lot of people think buying something handmade equals a higher price tag,” says Laura of Laura Lynne Art. “However, most artists who sell at shows and markets know they need to have a large range of prices. For example, you can buy a print, small handmade earrings, or a hand-painted card for under $10 in my studio all the way up to the price of a large original mixed-media artwork in the thousands.”

Water Street Studios welcomes the public to the event from 9 a.m.to 2 p.m. each Saturday into May. On Feb. 6 and 13, Soy & Lou on the Go Brew and Farm Dog Flowers will be on hand to keep you caffeinated while you shop and make the perfect Valentine’s Day bouquet for that special someone.

Rotating artists will be set up in the main gallery and in their studios on the first and second floors.

Water Street Studios is at 160 S. Water St., Batavia. Shop Artist Made continues weekly into spring.

The venue also offers SHOP WSS, its redesigned online shop featuring all one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces. The items are available for pickup at Water Street Studios, with curbside service available. Call 630-761-9977 to schedule your pickup time.

Visit waterstreetstudios.org to learn about all the upcoming events and art classes. Gallery hours currently are noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.