CNBNews

(Nov. 28, 2020) – Thousands of artists in more than 500 communities nationwide on Sunday will take part in Artists Sunday, a new annual shopping holiday that encourages consumers to support local artists by giving the gift of art this holiday season.

Artists Sunday is a fast-growing nationwide movement of more than 3,500 artists and artisans who have joined forces with 400 state and local art, civic, and economic development organizations in every state in the country.  During a holiday marked by social distancing, their shared message to consumers is this: Support your community by buying heartfelt and unique gifts from local artists and craftspeople.

More than 350 sales, specials, promotions and events are taking place nationwide. Additionally, consumers can search the Artists Sunday directory by location and types of art to find local artists or that just-right gift for a loved one.

“Art offers what we all need right now – a meaningful way to stay connected with family, friends, neighbors and co-workers,” said Artists Sunday founder Christopher Sherman. “Black Friday and Cyber Monday may offer the hot deals on the latest gadgets, but Artists Sunday provides you a special opportunity to give a personal gift this holiday season.”

Indeed, in the face of COVID-19, creating a ‘Black Friday for the Arts’ couldn’t be more urgent, with the pandemic shutting down 96 percent of in-person art shows and festivals, robbing many artists of their livelihood. The creative economy has lost more than $14 billion since the pandemic took hold last March, according to a survey by Americans for the Arts.

Membership in Artists Sunday is free for everyone – free for artists, arts, civic and economic development organizations, galleries – and free for consu