Meet the Artists at Hammer Boutique

One of my go-to shops for unique gifts is Hammer Boutique, 703 W. Hillgrove Ave., which features 40 local artists.

I love the fact that I can buy local artists' work right here in town and that there is always something new when I go in. Suzette Smejkal, the of Hammer Boutique, told me: “I always have new stock coming in; we’re always changing things around and keeping things fresh.”  

Now, I have a chance to potentially chat with some of the artists whose creations I love to admire and purchase.

This Friday, Feb. 11, Hammer Boutique is hosting a special event—a "Meet the Artists Open House" from 4 - 8 p.m. This will be your chance to put faces with the names of six artists whose work is sold in the shop.

Don’t miss this opportunity to come out and meet some of the talented artists and shop for your Valentine. Refreshments will be served and Hammer Boutique will be offering a 15-percent discount throughout the evening. If you have any questions about the event or about one of the artists, contact Hammer Boutique at (708) 354-6245.

Drumroll please, here are the artists who will be at the meet-and-greet, along with a description of their work, as provided by Hammer Boutique:

• Jani Bodell, of La Grange, who sells her work under the name “Jani Bodell Artist”—Beautiful acrylic and oil paintings show her artistic flare from within. Jani is known for her flowers and natural life scenes.
• Jan Bacigalupo, of Burr Ridge, who sells her work under the name “Voyager Trade Goods”—A jewelry line inspired by her spirit of adventure, using Czech crystal, natural stone and Thai silver.
• Tanya Svoboda, of Brookfield, who sells her work under the name “Mom-O-Matic”—Fun one of a kind jewelry using vintage beads and charms. Her whimsical designs will delight you.
• Julie Skoda, of Western Springs, who sells her work under the name "Julie Skoda Watercolors"—Beautiful watercolor paintings and her work is also done on notecards and t-shirts.
• Barb McDermott, of Countryside, who sells her work under the name “Barb McDermott Designs”—With her love of fabrics she creates one of kind purses and accessories. Find the perfect accent for your wardrobe.
• Marie Murrel, of Western Springs, who sells her work under the name “Watercolor Portraits"—With Marie’s talent her perfectly portrayed watercolor portraits highlight the individual personalities of each and every one.