About Us
The Artisans Association fosters a welcoming, inclusive community that values creativity and artistic expression. We provide opportunities to market members' art and enhance appreciation for the fine arts through our nonprofit, Stepping Up For Arts (SUFA), a 501(c)(3) organization.
The association cultivates a vibrant Brunswick County arts presence by:
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Operating The Artisans Gallery on Howe, in downtown Southport, NC, as a hub for displaying exquisite fine art and artisan crafts created by members.
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Coordinating special retail occasions during the year, including the much-anticipated annual Holiday Boutique in November.
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Raising funds to support SUFA, which in turn orchestrates art workshops, allocates resources to support local fine arts educators, and provides college scholarships for aspiring local artists.
Learn more about membership with the Artisans Association here!
Karin Elias
President
Karin Elias, President and member for five years, is originally from Michigan. She has served on five boards, all focused on supporting children and the arts. Over the next two years, her goal is to focus on increasing the profitability of Gallery and Retail events while strengthening their impact and sustainability.
Jim Storey
Vice President
As the Vice President of The Artisans, I hold a newly created position and am interested in making it as valuable as possible to the President and our organization. The new position was created to support the President in whatever ways make sense and, since we are both new to our positions, Karin Elias and I are working that out as we go. One of the responsibilities I have assumed is actively participating in the management and maintenance of the Gallery. I also enjoy reviewing and participating in the various processes that impact our organization's ability to function smoothly as a dedicated and mutually supportive group of artists.
Tracy Middleton
SUFA Chair
Tracy Middleton, a member for two years, is a former middle school humanities teacher who incorporated the arts into her curriculum. She looks forward to leading a team of artists dedicated to raising awareness and appreciation for the arts throughout Brunswick County and supporting creative opportunities within the community.
