Show features many Austin artists and works in various media

Sometimes when looking for the perfect gift, it helps to have options. The Blue Genie Art Bazaar, an Austin tradition for 12 years, is one way to browse many unique items made by local and regional artists.

Courtney Burton, managing director of Blue Genie Art Bazaar, said the show is oriented toward gift shopping and that there's "something for everybody."

"It's a way to shop local because it's 140 different local artists," Burton said. "There are many different styles, so there's something for everybody, and you get to support your community and artists."

The show is open from 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Nov. 29–Dec. 24 at the Marchesa Hall & Theatre in Lincoln Village, 6226 Middle Fiskville Road. Burton said the show has continued to grow since its started in 2001 and features artists that produce works in a variety of media, including painting, photography, jewelry, clothing, glassworks and ceramics.

This year the family-friendly bazaar will also feature a guest artist lecture series. The series features three artists, including painter Jennifer Balkan, furniture craftsman Mark Macek and assemblage sculptor Steve Brudniak.

Burton said the artist lecture is a way for other artists and customers to engage with each other and build connections.

"We wanted to do something to support the art community in a way that wasn't just selling art," Burton said. "We thought it could be more educational and [more of a] networking opportunity."

Balkan will speak Dec. 3, Macek will speak Dec. 10 and Brudniak will have his talk Dec. 17.

For more information on the event, visit www.bluegenieartbazaar.com.

Blue Genie Art Bazaar, The Marchesa Hall Theatre, 6226 Middle Fiskville Road, www.bluegenieartbazaar.com