Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1182230
A lovely wine deserves a lovely table, and nationally renowned Carmel Valley artist Nick Leonoff 's hand-blown glass pumpkins and gourds serve as elegant vibrant centerpieces throughout the fall and winter. "A lot of pumpkins are given as gifts," he says. "They're affordable art and can be the beginning of a collection." For the holidays, Leonoff 's studio produces "functional ar t" like orna- ments, vases and vessels. "This year's new design is inspired by the ocean—a transparent blue with white over the top and amber accents, a little like kelp," says Leonoff, adding that while he's inter- nationally collected and recognized, he holds a special place in his hear t for his local collectors, as he star ted out selling his work at the Monterey Farmers Market. Another artistic gift option is the beloved pet portrait. Carmel artist Rich Brimer pays tribute to his late French Bulldog, Gus with an oil painting that graces the entrance to his gallery in the Barnyard Shopping Village. The portrait beautifully memorializes the former shop dog, whose per- sonality peers from behind his richly painted expression-filled brown eyes. Pet portraits, in any medium, can also bring home part of the scenery. "We celebrate almost every day with our pets, and especially during the holidays because they are part of our family," says pet photographer Molly Nance, "and what better way to capture our moments with them and their presence in our lives than with a holiday portrait?" Nance describes her on- location pet portraits as spanning "from forest to ocean." As enchanting as the gifts to be dis- covered is the shopping experience itself. The personal pride and care each proprietor, artist, grower, vintner and merchant embodies is infectious and heartwarming, as they share tales while consulting with shoppers eager to select the perfect tiny stocking stuffer, lavish gift of a lifetime, or any size souvenir in-between. Options abound as you explore both well-worn paths and tucked away quaint courtyards. And if you forgot something— or need a refill—you can still support local businesses from afar by visiting them online. Happy Holidays, and Happy Shopping! And if you forgot something— or need a refill—you can still support local businesses from afar by visiting them online. 128 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • H O L I D A Y 2 0 1 9