Johnson Center for the Arts Christmas ornaments have become a tradition for those who appreciate the fine arts and are looking for a unique and special way to say “Merry Christmas.”

The arts center’s 2012 Christmas ornaments are the creative work of highly acclaimed hot glass artist Cal Breed of Orbix Hot Glass in Fort Payne.

“This is the second time that Cal Breed has been chosen to create the Johnson Center’s Christmas ornament,” said Morgan Drinkard, Center director. “We chose him because he is a Alabama State Arts Council fellowship award winner and because the ornaments that he created for us three years ago were so popular.”

The first ornament Breed created for the Johnson Center was, by request, a solid amber color.

“For the 2012 ornament, we didn’t have a preference,” Drinkard said. “We left it up to Cal to do as he pleased and we couldn’t be happier with the selection. What he did for us are ornaments in a mix of colors and a variety of the mix. They are absolutely beautiful and each one is unique. When the light hits them, the color is even more amazing.”

Drinkard said Breed created 100 ornaments for the Johnson Center and nearly half have been sold.

“Those who buy early have a larger selection to choose from but any one of the ornaments is just as pretty as the other, just different colors,” Drinkard said.

Although the ornaments are designed for the Christmas tree, they can be used year round.

“Each ornament can be hung but they can be displayed in a variety of ways throughout the year,” Drinkard said.

Breed has a passion for people and for glass and it shows in his work.

“He creates a variety of hot glass pieces — glasses, pitchers, tumblers, wine goblets, vases, center pieces and wall pieces,” Drinkard said. “And, of course, sculptures, which have been exhibited at the Johnson Center.”

Breed has been featured in “Southern Living,” “Food & Wine,” and “O The Oprah Magazine.”

Cal Breed is well known throughout the country and his hot glass art is collectable, Drinkard said.

“His ornaments are not signed because that would be a distraction on the glass but a pamphlet is included with each ornament,” Drinkard said. “The ribbon for hanging says Johnson Center for the Arts 2012.”

The Cal Breed Christmas ornaments are a fundraiser for the Johnson Center for the Arts.

“We sell them for $30 each and we’re able to do that because of Cal Breed’s generosity,” Drinkard said. “On his website, the ornaments sell for around $50. So we are offering the ornaments are an affordable price. When you purchase a Cal Breed Christmas ornament from the Johnson Center, you will be have a beautiful piece of artwork and will be supporting the Johnson Center as well.”

The Cal Breed ornaments may be purchased at the Johnson Center for the Arts on East Walnut Street in downtown Troy or reserved by calling 334-670-2287.

The arts center will be open on Friday and Saturday during Thanksgiving weekend and, during regular hours, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and until 3 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is always free.