
Angel Gardner of Upper Hanover Township, dispalys a sampling of some of her works of art she has created on Christmas balls. She has adorned the ornaments with paintings of everything from snowmen to Darth Vader, creating individualized masterpieces.
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This past Saturday, over 2.5 million Americans pledged to support small businesses nationwide as part of the second annual Small Business Saturday. The day was established to promote locally owned and operated businesses.
In the Upper Perkiomen Valley, shopping locally can yield some interesting surprises. The region boasts several talented artisans who create unique and personal items that can make for heartfelt gifts this holiday season.
One of those artists, Angel Gardner of Upper Hanover Township, has found a way to transform the simple glass Christmas tree ornament into a work of art. Gardner has adorned the ornaments with paintings of everything from snowmen to Darth Vader, creating individualized masterpieces.

Angel works on painting a Christmas ball. She says she can paint on almost anything.
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Angel Gardner has considered herself an artist since her third grade art teacher discovered and encouraged her natural talent. After studying at Moore College of Art in Philadelphia, Gardner spent time working for Byer’s Choice in Chalfont painting caroler figurines and collaborated with other artists to create the Tree of Life, located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando.
Today, Gardner applies her artistic talents as a nail technician at The Body Serene Day Spa in Skippack, while continuing to paint murals and other artwork, using a variety of media, for both earnings and altruism.
“I can pretty much paint on anything,” Gardner says, describing herself as a mural artist, spiritual artist, and speed painter. Her work has most recently been featured through speed painting performances set to music at the Upper Perkiomen Relay for Life and the Lighthouse Christian Fellowship Church in Pennsburg.

One of Angel Gardner's specialties is to paint animals like this family pet.
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It was an effort to create gifts for her spa clients that first prompted Gardner to test glass ball ornaments as a medium for her work. Her creations were so well-received, she began accepting requests. With the support of friends and family, Gardner has begun to take orders for the personalized works of art, with prices ranging from $20 to $45.
“Each individual Christmas ornament can be personalized,” Gardner said. “Whatever is in their heart, if I can paint it, I am going to paint it.”
Along with well-known characters and a variety of Christmas scenes, Gardner also specializes in using photographs of family pets to create unique pet portrait ornaments.
Angel Gardner is still accepting orders for her hand painted, personalized Christmas ornaments. Anyone interested in ordering can contact her at 215-541-4090.