A handmade gift carries the story of the person who made it—and every local purchase helps sustain the artists, makers, and small creative businesses that make Oxford unique.
The Yoknapatawpha Arts Council is launching a Curated Gift Box Series, a year-long initiative created to encourage Oxford residents and visitors to choose thoughtful, locally made gifts while supporting the artists and makers who help shape the community’s creative identity.
The project was developed by AmeriCorps VISTA RaDrea Rayborn through her work with the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council. During her service, Rayborn has connected with local jewelry makers, painters, seamstresses, culinary artists, and other creatives—many of whom face the challenge of competing with large retailers and bargain-priced, mass-produced goods.
“Through my work as a VISTA, I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many incredibly talented local artists and makers, and I’ve also seen how difficult it can be for them to compete with large retailers,” Rayborn said. “I created this series to encourage people to think differently about gift-giving—to choose something thoughtful and handmade and, in the process, support an artist right here in our community.”
Each box will center around a seasonal theme and feature a curated selection of work from artists, makers, and creative entrepreneurs. Collections throughout the year will range from art and handmade goods to culinary products and seasonal keepsakes.
The series also creates an ongoing opportunity for artists working across different mediums to have their work introduced to new audiences, including both Oxford residents and visitors.
Currently featured is the Farmstead Collection, created to celebrate National Farmers Market Month and Bit of the Sip. The seasonal box highlights the charm of the farmers market through items such as homestead jams, pickled vegetables, recipe cards, goat milk soaps, and other locally inspired farm goods. The Farmstead Collection is available to order at OxfordArts.com with pickup at The Powerhouse through August 21.
Upcoming themes include Rebels Kickoff Keepsakes, October After Dark, and Handmade for the Holidays, with additional curated collections continuing throughout the year.
At its core, the Curated Gift Box Series asks the community to make a simple shift: before buying retail, consider buying local.
Artists and makers interested in participating in future collections are encouraged to connect with the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council. 
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