Marketplace 120: Marietta's Hidden Treasure

How would you like to do all your holiday shopping in a delightful store that's the polar opposite of a crowded, noisy, traffic choked mall? A shopping destination with plenty of free parking and easy access to the interstate? And, even better, one that's chock full of one of a kind handcrafted gifts, wearable art and fine art?

The automotive and aviation paintings, left, would make great gifts for guys. Just beyond them are amazing "paintings" made entirely from beads. At right is a selection of abstract mixed media pieces by Kathy Woodworth.

 Marketplace 120 fronts Marietta's South Loop, one block west of Interstate 75, but it's easy to miss. This unassuming building at the intersection of the South Loop and Wylie Road contains all manner of unique, colorful items made by local artisans that you won't find in any mall. For example, brightly painted handmade purses, hand thrown pottery, and hand made jewelry to name just a few. (Don't miss the stunning 14K gold and silver creations by Brenda Smith, whose designs are sought after and worn by Hollywood celebs!)

On a recent visit to Marketplace 120, I saw a wide range of original paintings ranging in size from tiny to tremendous, at every price point. From small pieces perfect for tabletop display (and ideal stocking stuffers) to big, bold pieces sized to dominate a room. Choose from abstracts (check out Kathy Woodworth's lively mixed media and acrylic paintings if you want to add some zing to your decor!) or select realism, photorealism, semi-abstract or folk art. Can't decide? Many of the artists offer inexpensive prints and giclees as well.

An impressive collection of African art is featured in this room.

In the area of the store called the OTP Gallery, I found this display of beautifully crafted pottery made by Kennesaw State University students.

In addition to artisan goods, Marketplace 120 also carries a very nice selection of antiques and home decor items. (Curiously, the sign on the exterior merely says "Antiques" but there's so much more than antiques here.)

As a community service, Marketplace 120 also offers meeting rooms available at no charge, so if your book club or quilters group is looking for a nice place to convene, contact the store for more information and to check availability. This store really IS Marietta's "hidden treasure." It's definitely worth seeking out for the array of unusual gifts it offers in a pleasant, laid back atmosphere.
Marketplace 120 is located at 562 Wylie Rd., Suite 24, Marietta, GA 30067. The phone number is 678-540-7511.

Please note: I have no affiliation with Marketplace 120, other than friendships with several artists whose work is displayed there. So fear not, dear reader. The opinions I've expressed here about Marketplace 120 are totally unbiased, nor have I received any incentives to offer a positive review. My only aim is to acquaint you with fun, interesting places to shop, find excellent locally made handcrafted goods and -- hopefully-- help fellow artists continue to thrive doing what they love most!

Text and images ©2015 Lynn Edwards