The annual Haitian Art Sale at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church is around the corner, with a preview of items beginning on Monday, Nov. 21 at Skidompha Library in Damariscotta and a Festive Christmas Reception set for Friday, Dec. 2 at the church.

“The many colorful and beautifully made handcrafted items and paintings make wonderful Christmas gifts,” said Susan Meade, a long-time organizer of the event. “And if you buy something, you have the added satisfaction of doing some good for people less fortunate, as all the proceeds go to help Haiti.” She added that the country, the poorest in the western hemisphere, is always in need, but the need is even more acute in the aftermath of the recent hurricane flood damage.

The array of crafts includes brightly painted wooden boxes and trays, hand-embroidered napkins and tablecloths, silk scarves, papier-mâché creatures of all stripes and hues, delightful tin creations, intricately made Christmas cards, and an assortment of paintings of various styles, all with a signature Haitian colorful and whimsical appeal. There is even Haitian chocolate and coffee beans for sale.

Susan and Frazier Meade have been going to Haiti to buy art for the St. Andrew’s sale since the 1990s. They had lived there formerly when Frazier was stationed there as a diplomat.

The sale this year has added a Festive Reception with wine and appetizers, from 5 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 2. The church’s Christmas Bazaar, featuring handmade crafts, raffle items, gifts, baked goods and silent auction items donated by parishioners, will also be open for browsing and sales. Admission will be $10. On Saturday, Dec. 3 the sale will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Music with Katie Newell on the fiddle will happen at noon. The last day of the sale will be Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to noon.