Carroll County GA: Celebrate Local Artists & Craftsmen

In Carroll County GA, just as in almost every town in America, talented local artisans proudly display their crafts at craft shows, fairs, festivals, farmer’s markets and other local events. At these much-loved shows, featured artisans may include jewelry makers with ornate beads and sterling silver, photographers with framed photos of scenic local spots, and those selling t-shirts, purses, or blankets embellished with the logos of local schools or football teams.

By buying from local artisans in and all of Carroll County GA at local fairs and festivals, we are directly putting money back into the pockets of our community and neighbors. Yes, perhaps you may pay a bit more for that stunning 5-strand Swarovski necklace, but you don’t have to go to the mall and you are helping your community. Buying locally isn't always more expensive...it's probably more likely that what you paid for that gorgeous black and white framed 8 x 10 photo of the north Georgia mountains is a great deal!

It cannot be denied that the craftsmanship of these local products are quite often far more high-quality than those you find in a typical retail store. Local artists tend to take the time to create first-rate pieces that will catch your eye, while mass produced pieces - though they may catch your eye -are often made of far cheaper material when viewed up close.

In additon to the obvious - owning beautiful, one-of-a-kind handrafted items, there are many other reasons to buy from your local craftsmen:

• Buying directly from these designers allows you to ask them questions about their pieces. The crafts you buy from these artists will remain among your favorite pieces forever, probably more than trendy pieces you buy at a retail store. There is a distinct difference that you can see in the quality of the jewelry you buy from local artisans and mass produced pieces.
• Another wonderful feature of buying pieces locally is that you can usually custom order. Local artists love to get these! It is a compliment to them and challenges them to produce something memorable that you will love. Then, when you are receiving compliments on your piece, you can recommend the artist to your friends, bringing them more business, and you compliments on your good taste!
• When you buy something locally there is a good chance it will be original. Local designers have a creative spirit - they don’t maintain large inventories, so your piece will be distinct. They enjoy constantly exercising their skills in new ways and creating things to be as unique as they are!

There are many events and locations throughout the year in Carroll County where you get a chance to see the products of our local artists. Carrollton’s Mayfest and Villa Rica’s Gold Rush Festival are a couple of the events, while you can always tour the Carrollton Cultural Arts Center for a huge array of local craftsmanship.

A benefit to being a small, close-knit community  is that local artists and shopkeepers develop relationships, allowing the artist to display work in their store. Illusions Gallery in Carrollton features paintings and photos from local artists while Victoria & Ivy, also in Carrollton, sells beautiful handmade jewelry.

The satisfaction you will feel with owning a one-of-a-kind handcrafted piece and supporting your local community is priceless. For information on local arts and crafts shows, be sure to check our Carrollton events page!