For many local artists, finding a venue to showcase and sell their creations can now be made easy in Big Sky where visitors can jump on the chance to take home a handmade Montana craft.

Thanks to a collective of Big Sky artists, Made in Big Sky is open, offering crafts ranging from furniture, jewelry, candles, cards, paintings and hats, all made by Big Sky residents in Big Sky.

The shop was a long-term dream for Country Market owner Lynn Anderson. Working at the market she was often met with inquiries from visitors as to where to purchase locally made items. She never had much of an answer for them. But she did know that there were plenty of Big Sky artists out there. Anderson also had access to a cozy corner of the Country Market that had long gone unused. Seeing the demand for local products and having access to just the place to remedy that, Anderson donated a spot for Made in Big Sky LLC.

Anne Woodruff, Lorri Leonard and several other interested artists got the ball rolling on the venture, getting the LLC and creating a board of directors.  "It became a business overnight," said Anne Woodruff.

The shop is located in the rear corner of the Country Market with its entrance facing Lone Peak, and will be run by the very artists who will have their work for sale. They each run the shop for several hours a week and donate a small amount of money to pay basic bills.

There are around 25 artists involved, like JoWayne Curran and her handmade greeting cards, Pam Alexander enhances the ambiance with her soy candles, Jackie Rainford-Corcoran and her beautiful origami cranes and prints bring depth while Tara Gale's natural house cleaning and beauty products address wellness. You can find Lorri Leonard's JuJu skirts, made from recycled t-shirts and other fabrics. Anne Woodruff will be selling her pressed flower and watercolor paintings. There will also be Ophir student-of-the-month artwork for sale. For instance, in December, sisters Anna and Kate Middleton sold their handmade Montana magnets.

Come enjoy this collective!