It's A Gift is an art studio, public gallery and retail store open between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm Monday through Saturday. It's A Gift is owned and operated by Walnut Street Center, inc., which provides supports adults who have developmental disabilities. For years, the Walnut Street Center staff have noticed artistic talent in the people they served. It's A Gift opened on October 16, 2002 in order to showcase the talents of these "outsider" artists. Each artist has discovered his/her own personal style and their talents are extraordinary. Some are weavers, who work on one of our five looms; produce many finely woven scarves and other textiles. Others enjoy making unique jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, barrettes and eyeglass holders. Many are passionate about creating paintings in acrylics, watercolors, oil pastels and the art of mono printing. Individual pieces of artwork are sold on consignment so the artists can earn income for the works they create.
It's A Gift has three primary goals. Our first goal is to foster the creative development and artistic expression of the people we support. We strive to reach this goal by offering art classes on a daily basis, by visiting local galleries and by creating unique works of art. Our second goal is to increase the presence of the Walnut Street Center and the people we support in the local community. Artists have joined in community events such as the "Windows Art Project", "Somerville Open Studios", and "ArtBeat". Our third goal is to offer vocational training to adults who have developmental disabilities. Individuals who work at It's A Gift learn valuable skills in the areas of customer service, production and store maintenance.
It's A Gift would like to thank both Sovereign and Citizen's Bank for the grants that were awarded to the program. The funding allowed the agency to hire local artists to develop both the store and the art program. We would also like to thank many of our neighbors and customers who have donated looms and art and jewelry material, so the artists have a continued supply of resources to creatively express themselves.
Come visit It's A Gift and meet the artists, observe an art class and check out the unique artwork! Support the artists by purchasing artwork, greeting cards, t-shirts, jewelry, or a hand-woven scarf. It's A Gift provides a safe, fun atmosphere for the people we support in which to create, work and socialize. Stop in to see us or click here to visit our online store.
