Havasu Art Guild Fall Expo Showcases Melanie Housty’s Stunning Handmade Works Inspired by Desert Beauty

Havasu artist Melanie Housty is making waves in the local art scene, showcasing her unique creations after taking up jewelry-making post-retirement. A member of the Havasu Art Guild, she joined the organization over a decade ago, which has been fostering artistic talent since 1978.

Housty has participated in the guild’s Fall Expo annually, dedicating numerous hours to crafting her items. Her portfolio includes beaded jewelry and detailed painted glassware. “Some people don’t understand how many hours you put into something, especially some of my beaded work, my bracelets, that have taken many hours,” she stated, highlighting the meticulous nature of her art.

Recognizing a growing community of jewelry artists, Housty expanded her repertoire to include painting glassware and bottles. This new venture has allowed her to refine her skills and express her creativity over the past two years. Inspirations for her pieces often stem from her environment, notably the vibrant ocotillo and desert cactus.

This Saturday, attendees at the Fall Expo will have the opportunity to explore a variety of her creations, including earrings crafted from polymer clay or beads, as well as hand-painted wine glasses and decorative bottles. “We should always support local businesses of any kind. I try as much as possible,” Housty remarked, emphasizing the importance of local artistry.

Looking ahead, she is set to display her work again at the guild’s Holiday Shoppe on November 30 and December 1. For inquiries related to her art, interested parties can reach her via email at shousty@suddenlink.net.

The Havasu Art Guild Fall Expo takes place Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Mount Olive Lutheran Church Friendship Cafe, located at 2170 Havasupai Blvd. More details can be found at havasuartguild.com.