Asheville Art Museum Artmob Event

ARTmob Presents: Picha Kucha Night Thursday, January 20, 2011 at 7:00 PM. $3 Museum Members; $5 Non-Members. Pack Place Lobby + Asheville Art Museum. Picha Kucha means "chit chat" in Japanese, and ARTmob will be "exhibiting" 20 images for 20 seconds each. We might see 20 images of someone's artwork, 20 images of someone's vacation or 20 images of scary clowns. There are a limited number of presenters, but no limit on our audience! We'll have fun watching while we drink and nibble on refreshments.

This is an ARTmob event that also helps kickoff opening night of the Asheville Fringe Festival. To sign up as a participant, please contact Nancy Sokolove, Adult Programs Manager at 828.253.3227, ext. 120 or nsokolove@ashevilleart.org.

The Asheville Art Museum is located at 2 South Pack Square, Asheville, NorthCarolina.

Contemporary Color at Tryon Gallery

Contemporary Color is the latest exhibit to be held in The Gallery at Tryon Arts and Crafts. The community is invited to view the collection  located at 373 Harmon Field Road. Exhibit dates are November 20th  January 28th. The exhibiting artists are Kay Larch, Pat Lorenz, Jeannette Schmeichel and Suzanne Vitti. While their styles vary drastically, all four artists use a bold palette and unique design elements in their medium of choice. The artists bring together traditional methods and media, while creating quite modern works of art

HandMade in America Names New Executive Director

HandMade in America (HandMade), a leader in creative economic development in Western North Carolina, announced that it has named Gwynne Rukenbrod as the organization's new Executive Director, effective January 1, 2011. HandMade's Board made its selection after a rigorous search process that generated more than 120 applicants from across the United States.

Since 2008, Rukenbrod has served as Curator of Fine Craft at the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, a nonprofit organization founded to advance education about the process, product, and history of craft. An accomplished glass artist herself, she was previously Executive Director of the International Society of Glass Beadmakers, Art Curator of The Works (the Ohio Center for History, Art and Technology), and Director of Columbus' Days of Creation Arts for Kids.

Rukenbrod brings extensive experience in the management of nonprofit cultural organizations; including program development, fund-raising and donor relationships, volunteer coordination, and event production. She has worked with both rural and urban communities and built strong stakeholder coalitions in both. "HandMade in America has such a wealth of creative energy, which is no doubt inspired by the beauty of the region and the talents of its artisans. I look forward to working with the board, staff, and surrounding communities to revitalize, fulfill, and expand on the mission and vision of the organization".

"Gwynne Rukenbrod's dynamic combination of management experience and expertise as an exhibiting craft artist and curator are a perfect fit for HandMade," said Bill Lehnert, Chair of HandMade's Board. We look forward to her enthusiasm and leadership with great anticipation. Stephanie Twitty, who chaired the Search Committee for the new Executive Director, added: "It was a privilege to lead this important effort. Gwynne's skills, enthusiasm, and deep regard for craft and community speak well for the future of HandMade."

Demo and Mini-workshop on Book Arts

January 6 at the Swain County Center for the Arts in Bryson City, NC the NC Arts Council presents a Demo and Mini-workshop on Book Arts by Phyllis Jarvinen of Sylva NC. Participants will follow the stepby-step process to make a slim hardbound book during this free program. Participants can bring old maps, pretty papers or photos to use for endsheets or covers if desired.

Anyone who is interested is invited to attend free of charge. This program received support from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the department of Cultural Resources.  Get details...

The 12 Scarves of Christmas contest from Sutherland Handweaving Gallery

Sutherland Handweaving Gallery and Teaching Studio is celebrating its first anniversary by inviting everyone to become a friend of its Facebook page with a little contest feature Karen and Barb call, “The 12 Scarves of Christmas.”

Starting Monday, Dec. 13 on sutherland’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/sutherland.Handweaving, through Dec. 24, they’ll post a picture of a different scarf or pashmina available for sale at sutherland. Think of it as a little inspiration for your own or your true love’s holiday gift giving. Every day someone leaves a comment on the post (a nice one we hope) his or her name will be entered in a drawing on Dec. 26 for a coupon worth 50% off one of Karen Donde’s or Barb Butler’s creations. One entry per day, please.

Featured items may be purchased in the studio or over the phone at any time, so if you have your heart set on one, best not wait! Each day Karen and Barb also will offer another gift idea from the gallery and teaching studio.

Featured NC Art and Craft Galleries: The Folk Art Center

The Folk Art Center in Asheville NC is home base for the Southern Highland Craft Guild. the Center is the hub of traditional and contemporary mountain art and crafts for the Appalachian region. With changing exhibits in both the focus gallery and the main gallery and the permanent exhibit, all styles are displayed. Demonstrations and educational opportunities as well as special events are scheduled regularly. The members shop is visited by thousands of tourists and locals annually with very good reason. It is a remarkable place and an essential center for the heritage of mountain craft heritage. Visit the ONLINE SHOP or Asheville facility at Milepost 382 Blue Ridge Parkway.

Last Minute Christmas Gifts: Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree Store

There is still time to order that perfect gift from the Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree Store!   Order online 24 hours a day for beautiful handcrafted gifts from the mountains of North Carolina and enjoy free shipping on all orders over $25. Thank you for your continued support of the Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree!Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree Store is located at 262 Oak Street, Spruce Pine NC.

Asheville Art Museum Artist of the Month

The Asheville Art Museum Shop has announced its December Artist of the Month: Bickley Studios.   Phil and Veda Bickley are self-taught artists who were drawn to the medium of glass for artistic expression at a young age.  They work independently, but also in collaborative projects. Veda's glass takes on whimsical, fluid and sensual lines while Phil's work is always confident and rich in sophisticated expression. Having worked and supported themselves as artists for more than six years, their ability to live a life fostered by their art resonates in their pieces.

Their home in the graceful rusticity of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains is also their artist's studio, so creativity is deeply etched in their everyday life. Blending the techniques of both ancient glass artisans and more modern masters, the Bickleys have developed their own systems within the flameworking community.

Quilters Quarters Holiday Happenings

Quilters Quarters, 1510 Dellwood Road, Waynesville NC offers gift certificates which can be used for classes as well as merchandise, including sales items. Product update:


"King Tut" threads are now available with 50 colors to choose from, including 7 Tone-on-Tones. The threads are 40 weight, extra-long staple Egyptian cotton and quilt up beautifully!


"Bali Pops" have arrived!!!  6 beautiful new colors...Mango Margarita, Sangria, Blue Hawaiian, Grasshopper, Zinfandel, and Pink Lemonade....we will mail them to you if needed. What a great present on a cold, blustery day!


Many new fabrics and kits will be ready to roll out on the floor once Christmas is over...just need to make room for it all. Christmas fabrics will remain on sale for 25% off for the rest of December, as well as "Buy 3, Get 1 Free" Christmas fat quarters


"Chalkboard" fabric is now back in stock...makes great placemats for kids and for travel games.


Quilters Quarters will be closing at 2:00 p.m on December 24th and will re-open at 10:00 a.m. on December 27th...if snow and ice, remember to call first!

Saluda Artist Offers Workshop

January 22 - 24  Jim Carson, Saluda artist, will offer a workshop titled "Getting Perspective Right in order to Paint Fast and Loose." Jim will be joined by Chris Sherry, an AIA architect, who teaches perspective at Johns Creek Art Center and Quinlan Visual Art Center in Atlanta.

Chris will conduct the first day of the workshop, consisting entirely of drawing. Jim will teach the application of these drawing skills to achieve loose and spontaneous paintings during the following 2 days.

The workshop will be held in Jim's studio, located above the Saluda Grade Café in Saluda, and is open to all levels of painters from beginners to advanced. Jim will do a demonstration on Saturday, and there will be a critique of the day's work at the end of each day. There will be a "get acquainted" gathering at Jim's studio on Thursday night, January 20.

The cost of the workshop is $300 and will include lunch each day, catered by the Saluda Grade Café. This workshop was sold out last January. For more information, contact Jim at 828-749-3702 or visit jimcarson.net or email jimcarson@tds.net.

Heartwood Gallery for the Holidays

Happy Holidays          from                Heartwood Gallery    Holiday Hours Monday, December 20 - Thursday, December 23 10am - 6pm Friday, December 24th  9am - 4pm Closed Saturday and Sunday December 25th & 26th Closed Saturday and Sunday January 1st & 2nd Heartwood Gallery 21 East Main Street Saluda, North Carolina 28773 828-749-9365 heartwoodsaluda.com

John C Campbell Folk School Announces Ground Breaking

John C Campbell announces they have broken ground on the Jewelry Studio expansion. An additional 600 square feet will be added to the main room, which will include a new, handicap accessible bathroom. The existing bathroom will be converted into storage space. The studio will also benefit from more cabinet space for jewelry, kaleidoscope, and stained glass tools.


The total fund raising goal for this project is $45,000 with $17,220 currently raised. Resident Artist of Jewelry, Barbara Joiner, is coordinating an ongoing raffle to help raise funds. Items to be raffled include a hand built dulcimer by local instructor, Jack Smoot, and fine jewelry pieces by local artists.

There will be four more drawings and two names will be selected each time. Drawing dates are:
February 14, April 1, June 19, July 28, Raffle tickets are $2 a piece or three for $5. Please contact Barbara Joiner at 828-837-9778 if you would like to purchase tickets or make a donation.

Featured Gallery: The Artists Theatre on East Main

The Artists Theatre on East Main is a stunning art and antique gallery helping rejuvenate the area's small but active art community. The mix of old and new, traditional and funky, past and unexpected artistic pleasures has created a real buzz and excitement in the high country.

The building, built around 1900 has housed a variety of businesses including the first Ford auto dealership in the 1920's, a movie theater in the 30's and 40's, used furniture store in the 50's, 60's 70's and 80's and an office in the 90's.  Now it is perhaps the most unusual gallery you will ever see. Patrons constantly comment on the beauty and aesthetic environment the gallery provides.  Owned and operated by artists Steve and Lisa Willingham the gallery is an experience you will remember and want to tell your friends about.

The Artists Theatre is located at 8 East Main St in West Jefferson, NC.

Asheville Art Museum Offers Travel Opportunity

Asheville Art Museum Travels to Los Angeles!  The Museum will be visiting the beautiful city of Los Angeles, California June 7 - 12, 2011. The city and environs boast fabulous museums, galleries and private collections, not to mention great culinary opportunities.

The trip offers great museum experiences and a visit to one of the finest private American Modernist art collections in the nation, as well as excellent restaurants and first-class accommodations at the Montage Beverly Hills. Among the museums we will visit are the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), The Huntington and the LA MOCA.

The Museum's Executive Director Pam Myers will be leading the trip and several of her friends and colleagues at these institutions will help make our tours spectacular. To receive the full itinerary and the reservation form, please contact Nancy Sokolove at 828.253.3227, ext. 120 or nsokolove@ashevilleart.org.
Cost: Double Occupancy: $2,860 A non-refundable deposit of $750* per person is due by December 21, 2010. Final payment will be billed and due by March 1, 2011. *This includes a $200 donation to the Asheville Art Museum.

Open studio hours, classes and events At River Arts District

Saturday, December 11 at the River Arts District visit open studios, attend classes and workshops or do some great Christmas shopping. Visit the site for directions and links to individual studios and artist:
Weaving I-Three Warps, Three Towels - All day
10 am-4 pm :: Cloth Fiber Workshop - All day
10am-4pm :: Potters Mark - All day
10am-6pm :: Jonas Gerard Fine Art - All day
10am-6pm :: Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts - All day
11am-4pm :: CURVE studios & garden - All day
11am-4pm :: Warehouse Studios - All day
9:30am-3:30pm :: 310 ART (Riverview Station)
9:00am  - John Mac Kah - Painting in Oils -Studio Classes
10:00am  - Resident Artists Holiday Discount Pottery Sale & Fundraiser
10:00am  - Creative Collage: Fabric Cards
12:00pm  - Weave a Twill Gamp Class
1:00pm  - John Mac Kah- Open Air Painting - Landscape Classes
2:00pm - Jonas Paints Live at 2pm every Second Saturday in Studio

Chimney Rock Park Naturalist Series - Handmade Holidays

Dec 18, Chimney Rock Park, Chimney Rock NC. Taking our cues from the natural world, participants will make a beautiful handmade craft just in time for the holiday season.



Click here to register online now. Pre-registration is preferred. Day-of registrations will be accepted, but guests should call the Ticket Plaza at (828) 625-9281 to confirm the event is proceeding as scheduled.

Cost:

$35 for Adults, $30 for Annual Passholders, $25 for ages 6-15, $15 for Grady’s Kids Club Members (includes Park admission for the day).

Opening Recption for The Olmsted Project at the Asheville Art Museum

Opening Reception, The Olmsted Project: Photographs by Lee Friedlander
Friday, December 10, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.  Free with Museum Membership or Admission

Lee Friedlander (1934- ) is one of this country's preeminent photographers. Among his projects, Friedlander photographed the work of Frederick Law Olmsted, designer of the Niagara Reservation (North America's oldest state park), Washington Park, the U.S. Capitol Building landscape, parkway systems in Buffalo and Louisville, New York City's Central Park and the grounds of the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.

Rambling with his camera through the parks' open meadows and densely wooded areas, Friedlander explores Olmsted's landscapes - the meticulous stonework, the balance of sun and shade, the mature trees and the saplings. Friedlander creates an appreciation for Olmsted's parks as invented worlds, not sublime landscapes, designed to delight the eye and offer, as Olmsted wrote, "healthful recreation" for the public. By providing worthy testimony to our era's renewed interest in preserving the finest landscape architecture of the 19th century, Friedlander's black-and-white photographs celebrate the essential pleasures of seeing and being in Olmsted's living works of art.

This exhibition was organized and curated by the Asheville Art Museum. This exhibition is sponsored in part by the Mary Duke Biddle Foundation with local support from Kerns Landscape Architecture, Equinox Environmental and Terri Long Landscape Design, Inc. The Museum is grateful for the support of Janet Borden, Inc., New York City in helping organize this exhibition.

Image credit:  Lee Friedlander, Biltmore, 1994, gelatin silver print, 11 x 14 inches. 2008 Collectors' Circle Purchase. Asheville Art Museum Collection. 2008.36.02.91.

Art Supplies Sales

Closeout art supplies at Jerry's Artarama - The Artist's Supplier & Resource Leader since 1967 offers the highest quality art supplies and materials at discounted prices. Online since 1999, we have over 20,000 products available. Our popular categories include Acrylic Paints and Mediums, Easels, Canvas, Oil Color Paints, Pastels, Watercolors, and Brushes.

Daniel Smith Online Store  Daniel Smith, Finest Quality Artists' Materials has been a trusted manufacturer and seller of art supplies since 1977. Daniel Smith is committed to offering outstanding quality art supplies, products, value and savings to the artist community. We offer artists over 12,000 sku’s of watercolor, acrylic and oil paints, sticks, brushes, pastels, charcoal, inks and printmaking supplies.

Blick Art Materials  Started in 1911, Dick Blick Art Materials is one of the largest suppliers in the nation. We are the premier art supplies source for professional artists, students and teachers.

Annual Christmas in the Mountains Arts and Crafts Show in Robbinsville NC

Christmas in the Mountains Arts & Crafts Show is this Saturday, December 11 from 10am to 5pm. The Stecoah Artisans Guild and the Stecoah Gallery are hosting the second Annual Christmas in the Mountains Arts and Crafts Show. This indoor show will feature local artisan booths in a festive holiday atmosphere. A children's crafts room for ages 4 and up will be staffed beginning at 11am so the little ones can be entertained while you shop. Santa will be here too!

Shop the Gallery Monday - Saturday from 10am - 5pm and choose from hundreds of handcrafted items from over 125 local and regional artists. The Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center is located at 121 Schoolhouse Road Stecoah (Robbinsville), NC.

Guild Artist Holiday SHow at The Folk Art Center

Dec 14 from 10 AM to 4PM the Folk Art Center hosts the Southern Highland's Craft Guild's Holiday Sale. Next weekend will be a great time to visit the Folk Art Center. Meet Guild members and do some serious Christmas shopping, receive awesome discounts, and support mountain artists and the local economy. Happy Holidays from the Southern Highland Craft Guild!


The Folk Art center is located at MP 382 Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, NC.

Holiday Art and Craft Studio Tour Today in Spruce Pine

Dec 3 - 5   Head for Spruce Pine and the Holiday Studio Tour. Nearly 150 artists in this mountain community open their studios to public for this popular annual event. View the Map to the studios or   pick up a Guide at the Toe River Arts Council on Oak Avenue in Spruce Pine.

The Guide features 40 pages filled with colored photographs of artwork from each participant as well as a section featuring our local sponsors, who are supporting the tour. The TRAC Tour committee, a volunteer group of artists, works year-round to insure the success of the Toe River Studio Tours. This is one example of their years' of work.

Some locations host clusters of artists, a boon to those following the trail, where a visitor can meet more than one artist at each stop or vicinity. The tours are held the same time every year-the second weekend in June and the first weekend in December.

The 12 Days of Christmas at The Echo Gallery

The Twelve Days of Christmas

submitted by The Echo Gallery,  8 Town Square Blvd, Suite 160  Asheville, NC

Echo Gallery at Biltmore Park invites you to join us for an Artist Reception to celebrate the holidays and our December exhibit of “The Twelve Days of Christmas”, by Leo Monahan. The Artist Reception will take place on Friday, December 10 from 5 to 8pm. The exhibit consists of twelve original paper sculptures that were created as illustrations for the book "The Twelve Days of Christmas", which is also on display.

Leo will also give a talk and demonstration of his incredible work on Wednesday, December 15, from 6:00 - 7:00pm.

In addition, Echo Gallery proudly presents the work of fine artists and craftspeople from around the Asheville area. When you visit, you'll also find work that includes functional and decorative ceramics and tile, decorative and wearable textiles, jewelry, ornaments, furniture, sculpture, paintings, encaustics, pencil drawings, plush toys, accessories, and more.

Don't forget! Biltmore Park has it all: Dinner...movies... shopping... and art! Come and spend the evening with us. (Please help us spread the word - - invite your friends by forwarding this email!) Directions from Asheville:
• South on I-26 to Long Shoals Road Exit 37
• Turn left at end of ramp
• Left past McDonalds (second light) onto Schenck Parkway
• 3/4 around the traffic circle onto Town Square Blvd
• Echo Gallery is on the right: Suite 160

Cloth Fiber Workshop - limited space!

Dec 11, 10 AM - 5 PM at Cloth Fiber Workshop  - Creative Collage: Fabric Cards with Heather Allen-Swarttouw. Working with a wide variety of one-of-a-kind handmade fabrics, you'll learn how to collage and layer them to make wonderful unique images. Like a mini sketch, cards are a wonderful size and perfect vehicle to experiment and explore creative ideas. Using embroidery you can add accents to your designs. With the simple techniques you'll learn in this class, and your left over fabrics, you'll be able to make postcards and cars sets for holiday gifts, special occasions, or frame them! Level: all levels, fee: $85 + materials.

 
This Workshop is almost full, register now to assure your space! For the complete fall schedule and workshop materials lists, please see the Class Description page on our website. To register for workshops call 828.505.2958; stop by the studio, Mon-Sat, 10 am - 4 pm, or register online.  Cloth Fiber Workshop is located at Cotton Mill Studios, 122 Riverside Dr., Studio D, Asheville, NC.

Ashe Count Arts Center Christmas Event

This Saturday, Dec. 4th, the Ashe Arts Center is the place to be! First, pictures with Santa (registration required, $2/child), story time with Ms. Claus, arts and crafts, and milk & cookies from 8:30-10:30am. Then, meet and greet the Arts Council Staff from 10am-4pm. And finally, take in the beautifully decorated Christmas trees, miniature paintings and handmade ornaments. Enjoy holiday refreshments and shopping. The tree and miniatures display is available through Dec. 29th, Mon-Fri from 9am-5pm and Sat. from 10-4. Call 336-846-ARTS to sign up for photos and for more info.

Asheville Downtown Gallery Walk this Friday

Dec 3   Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walks   The Asheville Downtown Gallery Association has Twenty-two downtown galleries for you to visit that are listed on the Downtown Gallery Guide with a map to help you along the way at any participating downtown gallery, the Chamber of Commerce, or Pack Place.

Holiday Art and Craft gifts:Blue Ridge Artisans Show and Sale

Dec 1 - 24  Send Santa to the  Blue Ridge Artisans Show and Sale  for special gifts from special people. The Show and Sale features crafts from local artisans, including woodwork, paintings, photography, and various Christmas ornaments.  The McDowell Arts Council Association is located at 50 S. Main Street in historic downtown Marion, NC

Sew, Paint & Gesso Collage Workshop - $20

Friday, Dec. 3rd - 1-3:30. Random Arts, Saluda NC. Sometimes you just want to play and not worry about making mistakes, doing it wrong or starting over. That's what this workshop is about. . . doing it your way! With some gentle guidance and a few simple techniques you will create this remarkable work of art that is uniquely yours and yours alone. We'll start with some fashion magazine pages, bring in some gesso and double stick tape, (ah yes, the sewing machine too) paint, markers and last but not least, your fun loving imagination will round it all out for one absolutely crazy afternoon of creative bliss.
Join Jane for this fun workshop and let it all out! Only $20.
Limit 8 students. Please email to register.

Happy Thanksgiving

Update from Cottage Craftman

As the holidays quickly arrive in the mountains of North Carolina new products are also arriving  each week at The Cottage Craftsman. From pottery - Stunning and highly functional stoneware by Palm Tree Pottery - to scrumptious new jewelry - Copper Wire Tree of Life Pendants by Raquel Moore -  to food - back by popular demand a favorite holiday treat -White Chocolate Peppermint Crunch.

On Tuesday December 7th, The Cottage Craftsman and Choo Choo Coffee Company are hosting an evening open house with food and music.  Everyone is welcome!

Christmas Wines are now in stock! 'Tis the season for festive beverages and good times with family and friends.Celebrate over a meal, or give a special gift of these unique seasonal wines:

• Hinnant Holiday Wine
• Biltmore Christmas Wine
• Duplin Naughty and Nice
• Duplin Christmas Eve
• Chateau Morrisette
• Our Dog Blue Christmas
• Childress Holiday White
• Childress Holiday Red

The Cottage Craftsman is located at 44 Fry St, Bryson City NC

http://thecottagecraftsman.com/

Presents of Art in Tryon

Nov 21 - Dec 24  in Tryon NC  Presents of Art Holiday Shopping Extravaganza at Upstairs Artspace   is a holiday shopping extravaganza of fine craft by southeastern artists featuring jewelry, ceramics, fiber, glass and metal, to name a few. Gift wrap is available at no charge.

Upstairs [Artspace] is a nonprofit contemporary art gallery in downtown Tryon, North Carolina exhibiting two and three-dimensional art and craft by leading artists of the Southeast, particularly the Carolinas.

Featured Gallery: Ariel Craft Gallery in Asheville

Ariel Craft Gallery In a city full of fine craft galleries and a region brimming with artisans, Ariel Gallery is a standout. Owned and operated by the exhibiting artists themselves, this unique gallery is a showcase for original works of handmade jewelry, sculpture, glass, fiber, clay, mixed media, and woodwork. Since 2002, Ariel Gallery has represented some of Western North Carolina's finest artisans and given the public an opportunity to buy directly from local makers. 46 Haywood Avenue, Asheville NC.

"Homemade" Holiday Gifts in West Jefferson

November 20, 26, 27 head for the HOLIDAY FARMERS MARKET on the Backstreet in West Jefferson NC. Get your handmade, homegrown holiday gifts starting this weekend at the Ashe County Farmers' Holiday Market. Open from 10am-2pm. 

Pincu Pottery offers pottery classes for the young and old!

Locals and visitors alike can enjoy "playing in the mud". Pincu Pottery offers pottery classes for all ages!  Families are welcome to come and play with clay for two hours. Forget the mall this Christmas and give a handmade gift.  Make a reservation at least 2 hours ahead and create memories that will last a lifetime! What a nice way to warm up a rainy day or spend some time with the kids while in Bryson City for the Polar Express.  Pincu Pottery is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 am - 4 pm.  Call 828.488.0480 to register!  

Quilters Quarters Has Moved!

The Quilters Quarters has completed its move to1510 Dellwood Road, just 1/2 mi north of the previous location....3/8 mi from the stoplight of Highway 276 and 19 heading into Maggie on the right hand side of the road.

Hard work last week, from building shelves to organizing, has allowed the shop to be open for business again! Come seethe brightly lit space with the addition of over 100 new fabrics including 300+ bolts of fabric for $5.95 and other regular specials.

The classroom space still has a few boxes to unload so it will take a little time to get the new schedule out for classes.

River District Artists Studio Stroll this weekend

Nov 13 - 14   ASHEVILLE NC   River District Artists Studio Stroll   During the Studio Stroll, artists of the River Arts District welcome you into their studios to talk with them, see their latest artwork, watch demonstrations, and experience for yourself the magic hidden inside the old factories and warehouses along the French Broad River.

Read The Artist's Blog  for news, events, classes and more in Asheville's River Arts District.
Beat the crowds and visit the River arts District Friday evening for some preview parties! Get a list and more info...

Holiday Shopping Extravaganza! at the Asheville Art Museum

November 16- 21, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day Pack Place Community Galleryat the Asheville Art Museum. The Museum hosts the annual Holiday Market and this year we plan to have a variety of local artists with handmade arts and crafts, along with lots of Museum Shop goodies. Find art by local artists, including: Dawn Dalto, Andrew Montrie, Joy Tanner, Gabriela Baumgardner, Irene Redmond, Chris Savely, Sumner Smith, Kate Stockman, Erin Hinckley, Vaughan Anderson, Jim Caskowski, Sonja Voss, Suzie Millions, David Wilson and Loretta Forde. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the local artists, the Museum and the arts community in Asheville.

Art for Penland Auction on Ebay

Art for Penland is a web-based art sales program designed to support Penland's classes, programs, studios, and scholarships through the sale of art contributed by artists and other donors.

Glass Bottle and Stopper by Shane Fero

This month Art for Penland is having an auction in the nonprofit section of eBay. Thirty-six works contributed by instructors and students will be auctioned beginning now and running through November 16. The auction includes work in clay, glass, iron, jewelry, painting, photography, and textiles.

Contributing artists are as follows: Katie Bernstein, Devin Burgess, Gordon Chandler, Julie Anne Denton, Arless Day, Robert Ebendorf and Mickey Johston, Mary Farmer, Shane Fero, David Goldhagen, Marguerite Jay Gignoux, David Hering, Nicholas Joerling, Claire Kelly and Anthony Schafermeyer, Michael Kline, John Littleton and Kate Vogel, Richard Margolis, Joseph Miller, Bea Nettles, Ben Owen III, Jason Pollen, Fawn Potash, Paul Shore, Jerry Spagnoli, James Tanner, and Tim Tate.

Click here to see the auction.

Highlands Bascom Art Center features Quilt Exhibit

November 12 - Dec 18    A Stitch in Time Quilts  Exhibit at the Bascom art center in Highlands NC provides an opportunity to examine quilts on loan from local collectors and appreciate functional objects as works of art. As with most traditional crafts what began as a day to day necessity of life has evolved into a high art form with both functional and aesthetic use.

Meet the Maker Series: Ceramicist Arnie Zimmerman

Nov 16, 7 PM UNC Asheville's Owen Hall, room 302 Special Talk by acclaimed ceramicist ARNIE ZIMMERMAN. The event is free and open to the public. New York-based sculptor Arnie Zimmerman is considered one of the most significant contemporary artists working in ceramics today. Zimmerman was known early in his career for architecture-scale carved vessels, and is now well-known for his intricate and vast figurative ceramic installations. Zimmerman's "Inner City" installation, most recently on view at the Rhode Island School of Design, is made up of more than 150 figurative and architectural elements. The installation, which sprawled across a 4,000-square-foot space, illustrates both the glorious and the mundane aspects of everyday life. He is also known for his "Parables of Folly" exhibition, which included a collection of smaller pieces showing figures engaged in a variety of activities, from fishing with family to frolicking at the entrance of Hell's gate.

Downton Boone NC Friday Art Crawl Tomorrow

Nov 5  Boone's Friday Art Crawl  features local and regional artists of all genres ranging from traditional crafts, pottery, paintings, metalwork, jewelry and glasswork to music and live entertainment.  Several of the participating artists will be on hand to discuss and demonstrate their skills.  Galleries and shops are open until 8 p.m.  Restaurants and bars are open until 10 p.m. or 2 a.m.  Two underground galleries are open from 7 p.m. to midnight—only on Art Crawl nights. Located in Downtown Boone NC.    Blue Ridge Parkway 75 event, milepost 285

Fall Art Safari in Weaverville

Nov 6-7  Visit studios and galleries at the Fall Art  Safari  in the town of Weaverville NC and the surrounding rural areas. The tours are free and open to the public, and some artists' studios are open year-round by appointment.

The self-guided studio tours are held the last full weekend in April and the first full weekend in November, coinciding with the beautiful spring and fall seasons in the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. So, come join us and take home a trophy from North Carolina's creative frontier!

Concerts at The Asheville Art Museum

Sunday, November 7, 3:00 PM, Gallery 6, Dr. Teresa Sumpter performs at the Pianoforte Concert series. A recent transplant to the area, Dr. Sumpter is an Assistant Professor at Mars Hill College and a board member of the Asheville Area Piano Forum. She will be performing works by Bernstein, Beethoven, Montsalvatge, Scriabin and Rachmaninoff. The Pianoforte Concerts fill up fast, so please reserve your seats early by contacting Nancy Sokolove, Adult Programs Manager for reservations at 828.253.3227, ext. 120 or nsokolove@ashevilleart.org. $6 Members; $8 + Museum Admission Non-Members

November 9, 7:00PM, Gallery 6 Flutist Kate Steinbeck directs Elegy, Keowee Chamber Music's Holocaust Remembrance Concert. Elegy is performed at different venues in Western North Carolina, and we are pleased to be able to participate in what has become an annual event for the Keowee Chamber, this year featuring the music of Bernstein, Kaprálová and Shostakovich with pianist Daniel Weiser, cellist Elizabeth Gergel and flutist Steinbeck. "I don't know how anybody could have come out of Elegy without being deeply and forever changed," wrote a listener in 2009.

Reserve your seats early by contacting Nancy Sokolove, Adult Programs Manager at 828.253.3227, ext. 120 or nsokolove@ashevilleart.org. $6 Museum Members; $8 + Museum Admission for Non-Members

Gallery Minerva Fall Hours

Gallery Minerva will be hosting extended hours on Friday and Saturday nights during the 2010 holiday season. Stop in and see us 5 days a week, Tuesday through Thursday from 10am to 6pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 7pm and by private appointment.

Don't forget to check out the new photographs from Matthew Turlington while you visit.

Currently featured are the paintings of Mississipi delta artist, Cathy Hegman are currently showing at Gallery Minerva. Through more than 25 years of study, the artist has developed a vibrant, expressive style exploring topics such as the canine-human connection explored in this series.

Art Quilts: Creative Imagery Workshop

Nov 6, 10 AM - 5 PM Cloth Fiber Workshop offers Art Quilts: Creative Imagery with Norma Bradley. "Drawing "with scissors, you'll carve into colored fabrics to create form. Simple and intricate shapes will emerge allowing for personal authenticity and abstract ideas to develop. In this workshop you'll work on a series of small quilt/pieces that can be inspired by a personal photograph, poem or by improvising. Techniques for easy applique, carving with your scissors and integrating surface-design as an element of the design, will be emphasized. 
Level: all levels, fee: $85 + materials. Cloth Fiber Workshop is located at 122 Riverside Drive, Studio D  in Asheville NC.
Norma Bradley is a multi-media quilt artist and the Director of Art Education for HandMade In America. She creates fiber quilts and quilt-inspired gardens and has been a visiting and teaching artist for over 25 years, integrating the “art quilt” into school curriculum. Her goal is “always to inspire personal creativity while keeping the spirit of the quilt.” Norma is the creator of the internationally recognized Earth Quilt Project featured on HGTV's “Simply Quilts.” Her vibrant fiber quilts, informed by a background in painting, sculpture and art history, have been exhibited in galleries and museums and are in personal collections. Norma's Web site: Norma Bradley Earth Quilts

The Art of Pumpkin Carving

Work of the Week Celebrates Halloween

The Asheville Art Museum Work of the Week is also a perfect piece with which to celebrate Halloween! Connie Bostic's, "Recognition of Death" ca 1988 , is a mixed media painting on plywood, 96.75 inches x 25 inches x 7 inches. Connie Bostic is an Asheville artist and writer whose artistic endeavors are predominantly in mixed media. She exhibited her work at the Asheville Art Museum in October 1987 and has managed the Zone One Gallery since 1992.

Bostic is known to have worked closely with Charles Clemmons on art projects such as this piece called, Recognition of Death, which is only one painting in a series of 23. This series was a collection of a large procession of panels which became widely popular. Recognition of Death depicts a human skeleton in a coffin-like box and is a piece in the Permanent Collection that points to the Museum’s dedication to acquiring art by Western North Carolina artists. It was donated to the Museum by the artist's own Zone One Gallery.

Valleytown Cultural Arts Center Monster Mash

October 30 from 8 PM - 11 PM at the Valleytown Cultural Arts Center Goblins and Ghoulies can get Happy Feet. Come boogie the night away to all style of music from DJ Ed Cloud. Food, drinks and prizes are included and costumes are optional. All Proceeds benefit the Valleytown Cultural Arts and Historical Society. Tickets available at the door for $25 per couple, $15 individual. The Valleytown Cultural Arts Center is located at the corner of Chestnut and 3rd in downtown Andrews NC.

Annual Blacksmith and Fine Craft Auction at John C Campbell

Nov 6 the Annual Blacksmith and Fine Craft Auction at John C Campbell Folk School  is an event not to be missed. The Silent Auction will take place from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. and the Live Auction will be from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. in the Keith House Community Room.

Indian Rosewood Hollow Formed Vessel by John Mascoll

Items up for bid include donated works of fine art and craft by our talented instructors and artists. Traditional crafts such as blacksmithing, weaving, pottery, and woodworking will be represented, as well as other unusual items of whimsy. Proceeds benefit the craft programs at the Folk School. To preview auction items, click here.

A full day of events is planned in celebration of the new Clay Spencer Blacksmith Shop. A Tool Auction will be held from 8:30 until 10:30 a.m. in the Clay Spencer Blacksmith Shop. The official dedication of this shop will follow immediately afterward, from 10:45 a.m. until noon. Please call the office at 828-837-2775 or 1-800-FOLK-SCH if you would like to make a reservation for lunch, which will be held in the Olive Campbell Dining Hall at noon. Lunch is $8 and chili, salad, and cornbread will be served.

Last 2010 Saturday at the Ashe County Farmers Market

The 2010 season at the Ashe County Farmers Market will soon be coming to an end. The last"official" Saturday Market will be on October 30th from 8:00 AM to 1 PM. The annual Holiday Market will be open on several days in November and December.

In addition to a great variety of fresh produce the Market offers Nursery Products from blueberry bushes to herbs; Processed Food Products such as jams, jellies and honey; Grass-fed and pasture-raised Meats; Poultry and Dairy products including eggs and cheeses; Homemade Bread and baked goods; and a variety of Arts and Crafts in all media.

Come visit us at one of the most successful and vibrant Farmers' Market in the High Country of Northwest North Carolina before the season ends!

Winter Rentals at Penland School of Crafts

Penland doesn't offer classes in the winter, but that doesn't mean the studios are empty. Each winter, there is a small but lively community on the hill made up of staff members and winter renters. The books, clay, glass, iron, photo, textiles, and wood studios are available in January and February for folks who wish to work independently--the letterpress/print studio is available in February. Housing is also available. You can find complete information on the winter rental page of the website.

Special Workshop at Random Arts

Creating Aged Finishes ***ONLY $15.
Friday, Oct. 29th  1:00 till 3:30
How often have you reached for just the right grungy, rusty or distressed embellishment to complete a project? Now you can create your own rusted found objects that are unique to you no matter what the size, shape or composition. We will focus on the use of copper/patina and iron/rust paper, Formica, polymer clay, ribbons and much more. Clean up is easy with soap and water and there's 100% success rate in the outcome. You will leave with a completed collection of rusted and patina'd items as well as a cool box structure to carry them home. This is class that I am teaching at Artiscape in Ohio next April. Join me for this fun workshop and learn all this cool stuff! Only $15.

Limit 8 students. Please email to register.  Random Arts, Saluda NC.

Quilter's Quarters One Week Only Sale

October 25 - 30 One Week Only Sale at Quilter's Quarters, 2020 Dellwood Road Waynesville, NC. We have had a crew working hard on our new home and it is almost ready! We want you to be a part of our move, so we are offering you a huge sale for helping us. Your part is to take advantage of our "One Week Only" Sale. From 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 25th until 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 30th the ENTIRE store will be 25% off. The only exceptions will be the items that are already on sale or marked down. There is a large selection of books marked down 35-50% and several kits have been marked down. Come help us celebrate this special week in the life of Quilters Quarters.

Thanks to all of you who have volunteered to help with the actual move, but we can't really do much ahead....just be patient with us and we will get up and running as fast as we can. It is an exciting time for us so please come and join in the excitement and fun. 

One Week Left for Penland Resident Artist Applications

Applications for the Penland School of Crafts Resident Artist Program are due at Penland by Friday, October 28. The resident artist program seeks to enrich the total educational experience at Penland by providing a stimulating, supportive environment for artists at transitional points in their careers. Penland resident artists are full-time, self-supporting craftspeople who live and work at the school for three years. Complete information online.

Asheville Art Museum Presents "Up for Discussion"

Up for Discussion, Sewell Sillman: A Continuous Broken Line with Mary Emma Harris + Amanda Burdan
Thursday, October 28, 7:00 PM Black Mountain College scholar and author Mary Emma Harris and Amanda Burdan, the Tatum Curatorial Fellow at the Florence Griswold Museum, will talk about the history of the college and present lessons learned from Josef Albers that directed Sewell Sillman's experimentation throughout his career as both teacher and artist. These fundamental principles informed Sillman's work in a variety of media as he solved and resolved the "problems" Albers originally presented. Please join us for this informative and lively conversation, followed by a book signing. $5 Members/Students; $7 General Admission

Hendersonville Craft Show this weekend

Oct 22-23   HENDERSONVILLE  NC -  Henderson County Crafters Association Craft Show   The Henderson County Crafters Association will host a craft show at the Blue Ridge Mall. Fri and Sat 10 am-9 pm & Sunday 1-6 pm

Sylva hosts ColorFest, Art of the Blue Ridge

Oct 23   ColorFest, Art of the Blue Ridge  transforms downtown Sylva NC into a Paris-like scene with colorful umbrellas dotting each corner and alcove. The ColorFest will be host to some of the most accomplished fine artists in western North Carolina for the annual ColorFest Art of the Blue Ridge. 10 AM - 4 PM  ColorFest, Art of the Blue Ridge is produced by Catch the Spirit of Appalachia, Inc in partnership with the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and the Jackson County Visual Artists Association.

4th Friday Gallery Walk in Brevard this Weekend

Oct 22, 5 PM - 9 PM head to downtown Brevard NC for the 4th Friday Gallery Walks this weekend.  Enjoy an evening stroll in downtown Brevard as you  visit the art galleries, art stores, retail stores and restaurants that are staying open late. Most galleries have new artwork each month, and offer wine, munchies and music. Be sure to look for the 16 sculptures and five murals located in the downtown area as well. A brochure for the gallery walks can be found at any of the participating galleries or at the chamber of commerce. For more information call TC Arts at 884-2787 or go to www.artsofbrevard.org and click on Art Tours.

The Crafts Fair of the Southern Highlands in Asheville

Oct 21 - 24 one of the Southeast's most important craft events takes place this week in Asheville NC. The fall edition of The Crafts Fair of the Southern Highlands is four days of fine traditional and contemporary crafts. Over 200 craftspeople fill the two levels of the center selling their works of clay, fiber, glass, leather, metal, mixed media, natural materials, paper, wood and jewelry. The event takes place in the peak of the leaf season and is located in downtown Asheville at the Civic Center.

Tryon Arts and Crafts Festival Today and Tomorrow

October 16 - 17   TRYON NC  hosts the 3rd Annual Tryon Arts & Crafts Fall Festival   Now in the 3rd year of this wonderful event. Come see some of the areas finest arts and crafts, enjoy the artistry of talented local musicians and great food.

Last 2010 Asheville Art in the Park

October 16   Art in the Park   offers some of the region's finest artists in downtown's new Pack Square Park. 10% of proceeds are donated to local non-profit art organizations. Enjoy the beautiful fall weather in Asheville's newest festive venue while browsing and shopping a variety of art and craft.

Asheville Art Museum Used Art Books Sale

October 24, 2010 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Asheville Art Museum Used Art Books Sale + Half-Price Signed and Framed Christo and Jeanne-Claude Posters! Browse for art books at the Museum's first used book sale! We'll have great prices and you'll come away with some treasures for reading and inspiration. We are accepting donations for this event - please contact 828.253.3227, ext. 120 or nsokolove@ashevilleart.org.

The event also includes a huge sale of signed Christo and Jeanne-Claude posters! These high-quality, framed prints, signed by the artists themselves, will be discounted to only $200 (regularly $400)! This photo is an example - Preview these unique pieces of art here.

Arts and Crafts Festival in Tryon NC

Oct 16 - 17   head for the  3rd Annual Tryon Arts & Crafts Fall Festival  now in it's 3rd year.  The Event Features over 40 of the finest artisans and craftspeople of the region and  will be held rain or shine on the grounds of Tryon Arts and Crafts.  In addition to shopping for handmade, one-of-a kind arts and crafts, visitors to the festival will enjoy food from local eateries, live entertainment and fun activities for the kids. See demonstrations in pottery making, lapidary, woodturning, weaving, as well as metalworking in the forge throughout both days.

Downtown Andrews gets a Second Mural

Andrews Valley River Arts Guild has created its second downtown mural, The Wagon Train, designed by artist Steve Zigich. Building owners Ron and Marsha Clontz sponsored the paint and supplies and are so pleased with the results they are thinking about having an empty old gas station they own painted as a giant aquarium.

The Valleytown Cultural Arts Center has had a summer filled with notable events including one of the traveling Design Expo exhibits and workshops by two of the participating artists. Bryan Hughes, a member of the AVI Board, has started a new newspaper to provide an affordable venue for small town businesses. Plans for the publication include internet marketing .