Safari #22: The Swapaholics

You bring a bag of gently used items (clothing, accessories, shoes, and housewares, etc) to exchange for other items at little or no cost.  It sounds unbelievable.

The above scenario describes a "swap," where retail therapy, recycling, and charity all come together.  Last Thursday, I attended a clothing swap at the Arts at the Armory in Somerville compliments of the Swapaholics, an group dedicated to inexpensive thrifting and low cost fashionable style.

For $10 (discounted ticket cost) and a small bag of clothes, I walked away with some awesome finds including a puffer vest, pencil skirt, trail running shoes, and a blouse - all in excellent condition.  At the end of the event, all remaining items were donated to charity.

Interested in swapping?  You should be.  Check out the following sites to learn more:

• Visit the Swapaholics. Follow them on Twitter (@swapaholics) and learn more about their organization and upcoming swaps. 
• Check out Swap.com - List items you have and items you want, and get swapping with other users for the cost of shipping.  Pretty cool.
• Start Local.  If you're not ready to swap on a larger scale, organize a swap of your own with friends.

*Swapaholics logo borrowed from the website. 

Safari #21: Axiom Gallery

Some things are definitely worth waiting for - and I've been waiting a long time to visit the Axiom Center for New and Experimental Media in Jamaica Plain.  Located at the Green Street T stop on the Orange Line, Axiom probably isn't what you're expecting in an art gallery.  Its unexpectedness will surprise you.

"Identity Element: Works from the New Axiom Group" highlights the work of 12 new artists including video, audio, photography, and other mixed media.  One of my favorite pieces was a display of clocks -  all wired to a central piece and displaying the same time.  The singular ticking of the second hand across the sea of clocks was both thrilling and somewhat chilling at the same time.

Some quick tips if you're planning to visit:

• The gallery has limited hours, so plan your visit carefully.  Visit the website to view the schedule.
• The exhibit openings are fantastic.  Meet the artists and enjoy refreshments (small donations suggested).  Sign up for email notifications to find out when the next installation is scheduled.
• There are no restrooms.  Plan accordingly.

Safari #20: Harvard Museum of Natural History

Happy New Year safari travelers.  I've been away on vacation and recently returned to town.  I hope you all had wonderful holiday celebrations.  To start off this new year, I'd like to focus on safaris that enrich the mind and soul.  With that said, let's start with the mind.

There is something intriguing about the combination of history and science all in the same place.  If you're not convinced, try visiting The Harvard Museum of Natural History.  The museum gives you a visually stimulating tour of life as it has developed on earth over millions of years.  If you're able to visit the museum, be sure to check out the following displays:

The Botanical Gallery - Every specimen contained within this room is handmade - out of glass.  Created from 1886 through 1936, the nearly 4,400 models were used to teach botany to Harvard students.

The Mineral Gallery - A rare opportunity to view hundreds of natural minerals, gemstones, and meteorites.  If you appreciate the beauty of gemstones, pick three of your favorites and try to find them in the gallery.  If you like amethyst, you have a surprise waiting for you.

The Language of Color -  a stunning display of animals and the natural colors found in nature.  Did you know that the fur on some animals will only reflect blue light?

Tips:

• Admission is only $9, and if you're a Massachusetts resident, admission is free on Wednesdays from 3 to 5pm (September through May) and Sundays from 9am to noon (year round).
• If you're looking for unique gifts, the gift shop offers some great ideas.  In particular, the shop sells plants to grow at home including hydroponic herbs, vegetables, flowers, and fruit.
• If you're looking to grab something to eat after visiting the museum (remember, no food or drinks are allowed inside), Harvard Square is only a 10 minute walk away.

Safari #19: First Thursdays in The Hallway

The reasons to fall in love with Jamaica Plain (JP) keep growing.  A recent safari took me down Centre and South Streets for the monthly First Thursday event where local shops stay open past regular hours to welcome visitors with libations, hors d'oeuvres, and other goodies.

The Hallway Gallery (66a South Street) showcases the work of local fine artists offering a new rotation each month.  December features the works of Megan Hinton, Karen Kemp, Ben Silva, John Steck Jr, and Jonathan Stark.  The owner, Brent Refsland, an accomplished photographer, also includes his work as well.

If you have a chance, stop by to visit this month or wait until January for the next rotation of art.  While you're strolling, don't forget to stop in the other shops along the way.

Safari #18: Bizarre Bazaar

What do you call a collection of local artists selling their offbeat, unique, and handmade wares?  A Bizarre Bazaar.  Today marked 10th gathering of the Bizarre Bazaar at the Boston Center for the Arts.  Since it's inception in 2001, the bazaar has sprouted roots in other cities across the U.S. including Cleveland (my hometown), San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

Below, I've listed a few of my favorites, but be sure to check the website to learn more about the other vendors.

Taylor Ceramics - Cara Taylor's beautiful ceramics offer a simple sophistication that reminded me of the mid-century work of Eva Zeisel.  The porcelain planter is on my list of must-haves, and I know my amaryllis would love it too.

AB Cowls - Amy Beth makes cozy cowlneck scarves and scarflettes.  I've had my eye on a mustard yellow cowl for weeks and was thrilled to find one perfect for me.

DanMade - Dan makes cartoon and fantasy inspired ceramics - great for small and big kids alike.

Maxine in Trousers - Nothing tops off a vintage look better than a period hat or fascinator.  After trying on a few pieces, my plan for dressing up on New Year's Eve cemented itself.

Image Credits

Aqua Fascinator image obtained from the vendor's Etsy website (http://www.etsy.com/transaction/31576978).  Item is no longer available.

Porcelain Planter image obtained from the vendor's Etsy website (http://www.etsy.com/listing/51764203/porcelain-planter).

Safari Style #3: Cratchit!

Ebeneezer Scrooge didn't have it all together, but he did have one thing right: saving money is a good thing.  If you're looking to save a little money this holiday season and give something unique, try the following local shops (and grab something nice for yourself too):

Allston
Lola's Urban Vintage (187 Harvard Ave) - A little store that packs a big punch with period jewelry, hats, and fascinators.  If someone on your shopping list loves unique vintage, this shop is not to miss.

Buffalo Exchange (180 Harvard Ave) - Pat yourself on the shoulder, because I blinked too.  Yes, Buffalo Exchange has opened an Allston location.  While not as big as the Davis Square location, this is still a great stop for holiday consignment shopping.  Within minutes of entering the store, I scored a new pair of dark gray Chuck Taylors for $16 (applause).

Roslindale Village

Regeneration (20 Birch Street) - located in the lovely Roslindale Village, Regeneration offers both vintage and new clothing.  If you're looking for unique outerwear, this place has it.  The shop also has great novelty items - perfect for the stylish geek.  Parking is free and conveniently located right in front of the shop.

Jamaica Plain
Dame (68 South Street) - Shop in Betty, Joan, and Peggy's closet.  Find a dress perfect for any holiday party or celebratory night out with someone special.  Dame is chic at a great price. 

Image credits: http://www.buffaloexchange.com/index.php?pg=25&id=35

Safari #17: Getting Crafty

Lately, I've been wanting to get back in touch with my crafty side.  The drawback?  Supplies and workspace.  Enter Grey's Fabric and Notions (450 Harrison Ave) located at the SOWA market in the South End offering inspired, beautiful fabrics and a gorgeous storefront.

On Thursday nights from 6 to 9pm, Sarah, the shop's owner, holds sewing classes that are appropriate for beginners (and those who haven't sewn in awhile, ahem, ahem).  In addition to sewing lessons, Sarah offers a great selection of fabrics and pattern books.  If you don't have fabric, you can easily purchase some before class - just as I did.

After a three hour class, including sewing basics and stitching lessons, I (and my trusty machine, Millicent) created a lovely, reusable, tote bag perfect for small grocery shopping.

Check out Grey's Facebook page for contact information and the class schedule.

Tips:

• Be fearless and have fun!  It's ok to make mistakes.  Focus on learning as much as you can and enjoy what you make.  
• Practice.  Grey's offers open sewing hours during the week.  Stop in and practice your stitches! Be sure to contact the shop for details.
• Feel like driving?  Go ahead.  Parking is free at SOWA.  

*Grey's Fabric and Notions logo from the shop's Facebook page.