Shop ’til you drop in Salt Lake’s December Gallery Stroll

Christmas shopping is a big theme for the December edition of the Salt Lake Gallery Stroll, set for Friday, Dec. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. at participating art galleries in Salt Lake City.

Many of the galleries are staging group shows, featuring small art items that make good inexpensive holiday gifts. Some examples:

• Mod a-go-go, at 242 E. South Temple, is opening its Toy Themed Group Show, with Utah artists creating whimsical art pieces inspired by favorite toys.

• Finch Lane and Park Galleries, in the Art Barn, 1340 E. 100 South (in Reservoir Park), are conducting their 31st annual Holiday Craft Show, which features work by more than 70 artists — including several who appear at the Living Traditions Festival each May.

• Urban Arts Gallery, at 137 S. Rio Grande St. (in The Gateway), has its Holiday Group Show, with works by 50 artists.

• The Utah Arts Festival Gallery, at 230 S. 500 West, holds its annual Holiday Show, with works by 32 artists — including handcrafted jewelry, glass, books, cards, clothing and handbags made by area artists and artisans.

• Local Colors of Utah, at 1054 E. 2100 South, is continuing its offbeat Christmas show, "When Elves Go Bad."

For a list of participating galleries, go to gallerystroll.org.

Meanwhile, four Utah design firms are creating "Mall," a pop-up shop and art project that will be open starting at 7 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, at 159 W. Pierpont Ave., in downtown Salt Lake City.

According to event coordinators Gary Vlasic and Kent Miller, "Mall" raises questions about the typical retail experience. "Everyone shops and consumes, but how can it be a more interesting and memorable experience?" Vlasic and Miller write in a statement. "We want to give people a unique atmosphere to shop, as well as enjoy the social aspect of meeting local designers."

Each night will feature a different theme and events tied to that theme. Friday is "Graphic Design Night" and will feature video lectures by two European designers, followed by a type/image workshop. Saturday will feature a fundraiser for Now-ID Performing Dance Theater Company in a sit-down dinner format. Sunday will bring the closing ceremonies, with live music and projections. All events are free. (Go to shop-at-mall.com for details.)