Gilded Matilda’s in Wildwood is a business that caters to both art lovers and artists. It teaches art and sells wholesale and noncommercial home décor, garden decor, local artwork and one-of-a-kind gifts.
“This is the place to come,” said Sandy Merkel, the store’s owner. “It’s eclectic, fun and a happy place to be inspired.”
In addition, Gilded Matilda’s is also offering exciting new painting lessons for locals.
Wooden ornament making, learning to paint the sky, learning to sketch a face, Christmas tree needle felting, classic glass fusing and other art lessons are available.
“We’re constantly looking to introduce new art classes to give our customers the opportunity to learn new types of art.” Merkel said.
Merkel creates lessons for those who have no prior creative skills but want to be in an artistic setting. The workshops are taught by artists from The Villages, the neighboring areas and throughout the country.
Merkel receives fresh artwork every week in order to assure distinct items, and she offers Talavera Pottery from five different Mexican families.
“I feel like we have a good reputation for unique items. I’m always looking for something unique for the store,” Merkel said.
Merkel has owned Gilded Matilda’s since 2016 and has resided in The Villages since 2013.
She learned beading, design, jewelry making, painting, watercolors and other crafts as she grew up in Dallas. Merkel traveled to Ireland, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Thailand and Atlanta in search of artistic inspiration.
315 N. Main St. is the address for Gilded Matilda’s. Visit gildedmatildas.com to sign up for a lesson.
