MONROE — The Monroe Arts Center is offering a new and unique shopping experience through its newly opened Gallery Store. The store is offering both consigned art by regional artists as well as curated art-inspired items for ages 0 to 85. Whether looking for a baby book that teaches children their colors through an artfully crafted story, or new art supplies that extend MAC’s arts educational offerings, shoppers will find them and much more at the art center.

While MAC’s gallery exhibits are free to the public, the addition of a place to shop during the center’s regular business hours is a way to extend art opportunities to all ages.  

“Come on in and see what MAC has to offer — we have some very special things to share with the community,” said Executive Director Marie Perry as she continually invites new faces to experience the arts center. 

The Monroe Arts Center’s Gallery Store is also participating in Main Street Monroe’s Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 29 with a special Holiday Pop-Up Art Fair featuring area artists. There will be something for everyone to enjoy at MAC and it is wonderful to bring new things to the community and offer opportunities for artists to engage and share their work, Perry said.

“This is our first time hosting an art fair of this kind,” said MAC Gallery Store Manager Kareesa Wilson. “We’re thrilled to welcome some incredible artists for this event. It’s a great way to shop small, shop local, and support the arts.”

Shop Small Saturday is also a chance to stop in and experience MAC’s Annual Holiday Silent Auction. This year’s fundraising event features over 50 more items than last year due to the diligent work of the silent auction committee. The auction opened on Nov. 15 and will close with a special party and live auction of vintage and hand-made artisan ornaments on Dec. 12.