BY BRANDY TEMPLETON

South Iredell High School will host its annual holiday bazaar on Saturday, December 4. The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the gym.

It’s a great way to load up on holiday gifts and support the school’s arts department. Currently, art is one of the lowest funded programs in the state with some schools not offering art at all.

Right now SIHS’s need is ceramic glaze and other equipment, said art teacher and event organizer Joe Stewart. 

“It takes forever for us to get new equipment,” he said. “When anyone donates, it feels like Christmas to us.”

Along with traditional craft vendors, the the bazaar will feature small, hand-crafted piece of pottery created by SIHS students.

During the fall craft, earrings were a hit with customers.

“They made little candy corns and mushrooms that sold fairly well,” Stewart said. “Lots of elderly enjoy purchasing the art just because it supports the students.”

It’s a creative way to inspire the art students to give back and take ownership of their school.

“We donate all the materials to the students,” Stewart said. “The students get to make one for the show and also get to make one for themselves to keep.”

Along with the students’ contributions, Stewart is grateful for Southern Charmers Country Store.

Delanna Lloyd Estrada Jordan, a former student and co-owner, is helping to sponsor the event. 

“She’s made fliers and created events on social media,” Stewart said. “She’s also auctioning off an original painting with all the proceeds going to our arts department.”

Along with the crafts, baked goods, and other items, there will be pictures with Santa at the bazaar. To help out the community, Stewart is asking for a canned food donation to support Fifth Street Ministries.

“We want to give back to the community,” Stewart said.

There is space available for vendors at the show. For more information, please contact Joe Stewart at sinscraftshow@gmail.com