With the holidays right around the corner, the South Shore Mall was full of eager shoppers in search of gifts for their loved ones or taking advantage of end-of-year sales. This past Sunday, the Islip Arts Council offered shoppers an opportunity to purchase all sorts of arts and crafts from local artists all in one place!

From 12 to 7 p.m., vendors displayed their wares outside The Islip Arts Council Gallery in Bay Shore. Artists sold a variety of items, from fashion accessories to photography. There was a variety of unique, beautiful, and even “ one-of-a-kind” art to appreciate.

Upon walking into the area, TBQ Designs & Creations sold crewnecks that read “Coffee Weather” and white, brown, and beige knitted hats to match—perfect for the chilly weather to come.

Photographer and felt artist Jenn Brown turned felt into catnip toys shaped like hearts, paws, and different food items. Additionally, they used felt to make small wooden signs with fun patterns and designs. One sign with a blue and yellow floral pattern, two coffee cups, and a yellow heart would be a fun addition to any kitchen.

Landscape photographers Bobby Alan and Whitney Bell used Long Island as their muse, taking stunning pictures of our beaches and all they have to offer. Similarly, photographer John Lazzaro displayed photos from his collection, “Vanishing New York,” which showcases abandoned ruins throughout New York City.

Many artists showcased all types of paintings. Fine artist Wendy Montoya’s paintings took inspiration from “an organic and holy human being”; her artwork was ethereal in both appearance and meaning.

Candido Crespo of Little Crespo Press made bookmarks, stickers, and block prints using a printing hand press. He even set up a station for people to try it out for themselves. He provided two ornament stencils with red and black ink to choose from. When all was said and done, you were left with a festive postcard and a fun experience.

It’s not uncommon to build up an appetite after walking around the mall. Fortunately, My Town’s Café, in East Islip, offered sweet treats such as scones, muffins, and crumb cake. They also sold coffee and hot chocolate with a variety of holiday-themed syrups to add some extra flavor.

The Islip Arts Council hosted an ornament-counting contest. The winner who guessed the correct or closest to the correct number of ornaments in a plastic tube won a free session at one of the Islip Arts Council’s many art classes.