First Friday Art Trail Recap

Friday Joe & I traveled out west to Lubbock, Texas, to attend the First Friday Art Trail. This monthly event showcases works of art created locally in unique galleries, studios, and other venues in Lubbock. Attendees can follow their own trail or ride a trolley which makes continuous runs between downtown stops. This free event is open to the public, with many venues providing Hors d'oeuvre & drinks. We met several talented artists, jewelry designers & photographers along the trail.

We had the pleasure of meeting several vendors at Alderson Mercedes on Texas Avenue. Evan Sanford is a talented artist who has been painting for many years, but only recently began selling her work. Her impressionistic style is captivating. As Evan says, put a little art in your world. (Pink Gerbera painting pictured)

Sarah Timmons, the talented jewelry designer behind Pink Street, was set up across the way from Evan. Many of her pieces are created by incorporating vintage bits, as seen in the Key To My Heart necklace, which I love. Local boutique T.C. Elli's recently purchased the bulk of Sarah's fabulous pieces, so keep checking back for new items in her Etsy shop. (Bird on a Wire Earrings pictured)

I also enjoyed meeting photographer Liz Parke at this venue. Liz only recently began pursuing photography full time, but you can see that her collection is very diverse and strong. Many of her photos reflect the character of the West Texas area. I especially love Liz's animal photography.

We ventured on to the Tornado Gallery also located in the Depot District. I had the pleasure of meeting Lynnette Wilson, director of the Family Guidance & Outreach Center of Lubbock. This wonderful organization was selling artwork created by area children to prevent child abuse & neglect. In recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Center will be hosting the 10th Annual Blue Ribbon Rally: Car & Bike Show. We had the chance to purchase raffle tickets at the Tornado Gallery to win a 2008 Harley-Davidson Road King.

After leaving downtown, we stopped into Cactus Alley. We discovered several new shops featuring lots of unique goodies. This was also the location where the Lubbock Craft Mafia members were set up. I thoroughly enjoyed visiting with Emily Johnson of The Crafty Hooker who began crocheting at a very young age. Emily's spring & summer collection is full of versatile designs ranging from sleeveless tops to stylish shrugs that are beautifully made. (Emily pictured wearing Eclectic)

Although Jan Brownlow of Arty Dominoes was not in attendance, her terrific altered domino pendants were. You can email Jan for more information about her jewelry designs if you would like more information.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to the Hub City. It was a great opportunity to meet some really talented & friendly artists and designers. If you are ever remotely close to the West Texas region, I urge you to attend this monthly event.