Saturday evening, I attended a special artist reception at Zinc Interiors Concept hosted by owner and interior designer Laura Zeck, offering an “eclectically curated mix of art, furniture and modern gifts.”

Featured that evening was children’s illustrator and now self-published children’s author Amy Hevron. Amy stated has recently made a “career leap,”as she now creates unique and whimsical paintings and “felties.” Most unique about her art is the use of wood scraps in her choice of canvas. The pieces, according to Amy, were inspired by Yellowstone Park, quite evident in the art yet through Amy’s own interpretation. Curious about her choice of wood as a medium, Amy explained: “the texture and natural forms of the wood helped with the inspiration and unique quality of each piece.” Important also to Amy is the socially responsible aspect of utilizing recycled materials.

Complimentary to her art pieces, Amy created these adorable 3D “felties,” as they are called — delightful figures made out of felt, perfect to play with or display alongside the paintings or by themselves.

Amy’s work will be on display until Jan. 12, 2015.

Guest bartender and award-winning author A.J. Rathburn of Seattle was on hand, mixing up a delicious festive cocktail especially designed for the event and also there signing his new book “Champagne Cocktails” available at Zinc. A.J. has been referred to as “a loquacious expert on matters of food, drinks and entertaining.” He teaches cocktail classes at the “Dish it Up” cooking school in Seattle as well as appearing as a guest on “Everyday Food” Martha Stewart Living on Sirius Satellite radio.

Among Laura’s collection of unique items — handbags made by Georgetown designer Francine Moo Young that were beautifully constructed, hand-painted and versatile. One handbag Laura showed me had three or four variations to carrying the bag — from clutch to shoulder to across the body — simply by changing the strap; a fantastic gift or accessory for this holiday season. Moo Young also makes very unique leather bracelets, which complement her handbags or on their own are a true piece of wearable art.

Finally for us local residents, Laura has a wonderful selection of Edmonds-centric pieces I loved and certainly many of you may also wish to pick up.

Laura mentioned that her studio features new artists, many of whom are local on a monthly basis and can submit their artwork via the Zinc website for consideration. I applaud Laura for her outstanding support of independent and local artists and for carrying such exclusive items in her studio that I would venture to say one would be hard pressed to find many other places. So if you’re looking for distinctive gifts this holiday season or even everyday items for yourself, Zinc is definitely worth a visit.

Zinc Interiors Concept is located 102 Third Ave. S., Suite B, Edmonds, 98020…..206-467-1027.

– By Joy Rai

Joy Rai is an Edmonds mom to three, part-time chauffeur, short-order cook, arbitrator, fashion fanatic, avid collector and consultant to family and friends.