The earthy creativity of Lisa Ernst and Margaret Regan is inspired by nature.

Ernst's medium of choice is ceramics and Regan's is polymer clay, which complemented each other in a holiday sale over the weekend.

This is the 10th year the creative duo has teamed for a weekend sale affectionately known as the Clay Gals sale.

The jewelry handcrafted by Regan is not painted, but rather a bold and vibrant combination of colored polymer clay and precious metals.

Ernst has a strong local following, as she has been selling her work in the region since 1980. Her pottery offers soothing, calm colors in functional forms such as vessel sinks, platters and hand-carved urns.

Hundreds of visitors stopped in at the downtown sale Sunday to do some Christmas shopping, create a wish list of their own, or to be inspired.

Joyce Beckes of Helena has been going to the Clay Gals sale for many years, usually in need of presents for someone special, although she admits she has a few pieces of her own.

This year, it was a green and brown tumbler for her daughter who lives out of state.

Susan Anderson stopped in after church service with sons, Andrew and William Fuehrer, in search of a butter dish for a family member.

Anderson didn't find exactly what she was looking for, but the threesome enjoyed some snacks and left all wearing smiles after seeing the artwork of clay.

Reporter Alana Listoe: 447-4081 or alana.listoe@helenair.com