The Provo Farmers Market is now open for the winter season at the Provo Towne Centre mall, allowing shoppers to enjoy the perks of the summertime market from within the warmth of the indoors.
More than 80 vendors sell their goods at the indoor market. It provides a great opportunity for local business owners to connect with the community, Matthew Taylor, executive director of the market, said.
"I call this 'the old ways;' you know, where we actually knew the person who produced our goods," Taylor said.
While the market is popular in the summer, foot traffic at the winter market remains strong, Taylor said.
"Having real, face-to-face interaction with people, running into friends (and) buying fresh, locally made things that fuel the local economy is just so amazing," Taylor said.
Whistles, mushrooms of various shapes and sizes and ceramic pots are among the unique items available each week.
Artist Steve Henline, who shares his work with marketgoers, said creating art saved his life.
"Doctors were doing all they could to help me with the arthritis. The condition got worse, gradually got worse until I became suicidal," Henline said.
Henline turned to digital art after severe arthritis made painting difficult. He now hopes his art inspires others.
"The lesson is, we can come out of that darkness and despair. We can stand in the light," Henline said.
The Provo Winter Market will remain open until April 19. For more information, visit https://www.provofarmersmarket.com.