Holiday PopUp Art Shop 165 Augusta Ave., Toronto, ON

For his second year in a row, along with his collaborative avant-garde art arena, Methinks, Ryan Ringer has put together a Holiday PopUp Art Shop in Kensington Market that belies any claims that the Holt Renfrew Popup is the first of its kind in the city.



Rather than peddling overpriced denim and oversized sunglasses, the Holiday PopUp Art Shop is a charming dealer of handmade curiosities and glittering anomalies. And though the gifts range in price from $20 - $200, which is a good deal, the real steal is simply a visit to the shop; truly a free trip into the warmer side of the surreal.



Decked out like an eccentric collector's living room at Christmas, the empty gallery space is transformed. Delicate paintings and handmade dolls line the store's faux brick walls and peak through the window cutouts; an obscenely large cardboard stocking hangs on a two-dimensional fireplace, while brightly coloured collectibles, felt whatnots and tiny prints burst out the top. Stealthily make your way behind the "fireplace" and find yourself in the secret party room, jammed with performing elves, haggling shopkeepers, live music and of course hot chocolate.



Check out the opening party and auction tonight, December 10, from 6pm - 11pm.