When an event is called W.O.W. you arrive with certain expectations, the least of which is having something to say "WOW" about.

The Women of Westport art exhibit and sale at The Depot Theatre delivers nothing less than its acronym connotes. Fifteen artists are represented and their wares include a broad range of ceramics, textile arts, paintings, photographs, prints, basketry, jewelry, and more, all worthy of a resounding WOW!

There is lots to see packed into the lobby of The Depot Theatre (which also serves as the Westport Train Station). Everything here is for sale, unique, and amazingly affordable considering the workmanship that has gone into these handcrafts. I find many items that would make great holiday presents.

I am here for the opening night reception and many of the artist creators are in attendance as well. Holiday shopping in the North Country is a lot different than mall shopping in the suburbs. It is done among friends and in social gatherings where there is good cheer, food, and lots of creative spirits. Holiday bazaars at schools and churches in the North Country also boast lots of unique crafters. But this W.O.W show represents the cream of the art gifting shows. And the teaser to get folks to The Depot is no less inspiring: "What resides at the Depot Theatre in Westport, has nine lives, appears once a year, is gender specific, has many hands, makes a perfect holiday gift and can be made of paint, clay, fabric, metal, wood, glass, ink, yarn or paper?" Who wouldn't want to check this out.

The W.O.W. show is an annual Depot event that now features 15 of the area's well known and soon-to-be well known female artists of Westport and its surrounding environs. The artists represent the traditional, folk, and avant garde. The list of exhibitors includes Maurya Teale, Cynthia Schira, Kathy Kelley, Sheri Amsel, Linda Smyth, Elena Borstein, Dee Carroll, Vel Capewell, Carol Laughlin, Caroline Thompson, Stephanie Ames, Caroline Vanderhoof, Kathryn Cramer, Elizabeth Hartwell, and Meredith Johnston.

But gents, don't let the name put you off. There are plenty of men here tonight who are appreciating and buying as well.

The Ninth Annual Women of Westport Art Show and Holiday Sale runs until January 8, 2013. It is open Monday through Friday from 10 to 4 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 3 PM.

The Depot Theatre has also just announced the 2013 Summer Season. To find out all the details and how to subscribe to the Depot's 35th summer of theatre click through to the Depot website.

There are many more holiday art events coming up in the North Country. Go to  the Lake Placid link to see what else is on the event calendar.

Kathleen Recchia has been enjoying the arts in the Adirondacks for about 20 years—both as observer and participant (acting, directing, and producing). She also enjoys cross-country skiing, swimming, juggling, and hosting visitors to the area at her bed & breakfast in Jay.