The Ohio Art Market

“Art is not a thing; it is a way of living” –Elbert Hubbard.

Encircle art has supported quality products from the United States for years, but recently, owner Amy Heath decided to bring handmade art to the local level with the Ohio Art Market (OAM). The OAM originated out of Heath’s desire to give artists a platform to help them reach the next level professionally. Out of her two spaces in uptown Westerville, one has completely changed into a venue for local art while the other continues to carry clothing, jewelry and accessories.

When Encircle published a call for artists in the Columbus area, a group of highly creative individuals responded with jewelry, textiles, wood, paintings, photography, seasonal jam and jelly and other mediums. After attaining a spot in the OAM to display merchandise, each artist must arrange, decorate, and restock their product. Some artists also create a “self-portrait” or story to go along with their work to shed light on their personal journey in the world of art.

Discovering the person behind the craft offers a positive and meaningful connection between designer, product and consumer. Westerville now has a chance to give back to the arts what they graciously give every day—beauty, connection, enjoyment and memories.

In recent years, the public’s cry for Ohio products and local pride has not gone unnoticed. By establishing the OAM, Heath created a hub that will spur community involvement, support and trust. Heath’s greater goal for the OAM in the coming year involves community participation in arts and crafts, individual artist events, and partnerships with local schools.

“I have been told more than once how lucky I am to have an artist eye because I see what others don’t. Some of my friends tease me because I notice the clouds or the birds, but I can’t imagine not noticing these things. Being an artist to me means taking time to be in the moment.”  Kellyn Donnelly

Born in Indianapolis, Kellyn Elizabeth (Feeney) Donnelly’s life journey winds from the mountains of Colorado to the beaches of California, but somehow her roots have settled here in Westerville, where she now shares her Blessed MOMents studio art with the Columbus community. Having a space at the Ohio Art Market has spurred her to create more, and she thoroughly enjoys the new niche.  But do not let the stereotypical label of a “carefree artist” blind your vision. Kellyn faces many challenges in the juggling act known as balance, and in a struggling economy, the difficulties seem insurmountable.

If the lack of money circulation has affected larger corporations and businesses, then the survival of independent artists surely has been shaken. Kellyn constantly notices the shift in economic spending: “If you are trying to make a living creating original art, it is next to impossible in our country right now. Original art is a luxury that not everyone can afford.” The pressure can be felt especially when artists are compared to other striving occupations.

“It is hardest to be an artist when our society puts so much pressure on ‘making something of yourself’. If you are ‘smart’ you are encouraged to be a lawyer or doctor. No one tells a good student, ‘Hey, you should be an artist,’” Kellyn says, “The other professions are important, but if your heart tells you to do art, then DO IT! God will take care of giving us the opportunities if we are willing to take the risk.”

Since Kellyn is blessed with an acute “artist eye”, the downward spiral of the economy can only damper her spirits to a minimum. Her heart’s joy is art, and since the world is a giant canvas, her inspiration breaks through the clouds on those ever-dreary days with a simple glance around her. The only way she has learned to appreciate and enjoy life is by stopping—something quite contrary to the typical “GO!” attitude in America. Her greatest weapon is the ability to be: “My life can be chaotic, but if I can take the time to notice the color of the sky at sunrise while getting the kids ready for school, it can help remind me that there is so much more to life and so much to be thankful for.”

A grateful spirit in hard times is a rare gift in this myopic world, but Kellyn has learned that thankfulness is the challenge that keeps her mind alert to the surrounding beauty. With her faith and paintbrush in hand, Kellyn’s life depicts a portrait of dependence and gratitude:

“My art and talent has taught me that I am not in control. So many times I start a painting or a project and it turns out so different than I had planned. I will finish something and wonder how I did it. I have come to the realization that I didn’t do it but was led by the Spirit. God is in control. If I stop worrying and start a painting I am always happy with the end product.”

If you are interested in Kellyn’s work, please stop in 30 State Street to see her artwork, including “The Peace Tree”, “God-light”, “Madonna”, “Ohio Stadium”, and more. If you have an artist heart and want to continue stretching yourself, Kellyn suggests the book The Artist’s Way for a journaling and art-filled adventure.

Valentine’s Day is just a few days away! Show your valentine just how special they are with a truly unique gift from encircle! Our large selection of handcrafted jewelry features metal work, gemstones, glass, charms, and a wide variety of styles to suit any taste. We also have great gifts for men such as hand-hammered and painted watches, and carved wooden boxes. We’ll help wrap your gift and ensure a beautiful presentation to give your loved one. Make this Valentine’s Day special with a handcrafted, American-made gift!

Beat the winter blues by stopping in encircle! (As one customer said, “This store reminds me of sunshine!”) Right now we have cozy Willow sweaters, warm Baabaazuzu scarves & gloves, delicious Stonewall kitchen baking mixes, and cute quote mugs to hold your favorite hot drinks.


In other exciting news, encircle is now offering wedding registry services! We have a beautiful selection of artisan-crafted dinning collections and serving pieces, customizable home decor, and unique tools for the kitchen. Our other wedding specialty is in the area of jewelry. Our beautiful selection of jewelry pieces can be custom ordered to match any color scheme. Perfect for brides, bridesmaids, and mothers of the bride and groom.


Also, as Valentine’s Day approaches, we’re planning a jewelry event for an evening in early February. Check back for details!

Now that the new year is underway, we have a sale to kick it off! Since the year began on 1-1-11, we are having a “ONE” sale – that is, a sale on items way have in one size, one color, one style, etc. All items are limited in quantity and while supplies last, so stop in soon for the best selection!