First ArtMart of the Year in Old Fort

Date: January 5  ArtMart   Locally created arts and crafts displayed inside the historic Old Fort Depot. Stop by to chat with the creators of these one of a kind items while you shop for yourself, family or friends.

The Art Mart offers something for everyone including baskets, paintings, woodwork, wreaths, candles and live demonstrations. Sponsored by Arrowhead Artists and Artisans League, the Mart is located at 25 Main Street in Old Fort NC.

Penland School of Crafts Announces 2013 Catalog of Summer Classes

Penland School of Crafts will be mailing out its new 2013 catalog of classes next week. The catalog may also be viewed online.

You can peruse the one- and two-week summer offerings organized by studio or by session. (The studio listings include everything that's currently scheduled, beginning with spring classes, so be sure to scroll down a bit to find our summer classes.)

As usual, most workshops are open to students of all skill levels: the generous Penland instructors will meet you wherever you are. With 105 classes in a broad range of media, this summer at Penland covers an extraordinary range of topics, from pewtersmithing, functional pottery, fresco painting, making steel garden tools, and weaving with locally-harvested kudzu fibers to a class that explores the space between still photography and video, a writing workshop, a class in business for artists, and three classes (two in metals and one in wood) combining craft materials with sensors, motors, sound, light, and microcontrollers.
 
Penland is dedicated to helping people live creative lives, and believes one of the best ways to enhance your creative life is to spend a couple of weeks completely immersed in something that inspires you. If you can do that surrounded by other people with a similar passion, and you've got someone making nice meals for you, well, it's hard to think of anything better.

Scholarship application deadline is February 15: Penland is pleased to be able to offer hundreds of scholarships in several different categories. Get more scholarship information here.

Lottery deadline is February 11: Although most applicants for Penland classes are enrolled in the class they want, a few very popular classes get a lot more applications than there are spaces available. To give everyone a shot at those classes,  all applications received by February 11 are treated equally. After that, spaces are filled on a  first-come, first-served basis. A list of open summer classes will be posted in April and students can enroll right on through the summer, if space is available. 

Last Week for Miniature Art Exhibit in Ashe County

Now through December 31  Tree Fest and Christmas Miniatures Art Exhibit  Beautifully decorated trees with handcrafted ornaments, holiday crafts, gift items and miniature paintings and photography. The gallery shop is also full of handmade ornaments available for purchase.

The Ashe County Art Council is located at 303 School Avenue in West Jefferson NC.

Hve a happy, handmade Christmas!

Final 2 days for the Fireside Sale 15% discount at John C Campbell Folk School

December 23- 24 Final days od the  Holiday Gifts by the Fireside at John C Campbell Folk School The School's Craft Shop will be offering 15% off during the Fireside Sale. The 15% off sale will last from November 25 to December 24. Shop for handmade gifts made by local and regional artists in a variety of media including jewelry, fiber, wood items, forged metal, pottery, and more.

Last Chance to see the National Gingerbread House Competition and Display

Now through January 2   The National Gingerbread House Competition and Display   Contestants from across the country bring their architectural masterpieces to The Grove Park Inn for display over the holidays. Delight in the imagination shown in these sugar-and-spice creations, strolling through the competition is a sure way to be swept up in the holiday spirit.

There is no admission charge to view the entries to the National Gingerbread House Competition. In addition to the gingerbread overload, see the beautiful holiday displays throughout and warm by the giant fireplaces in the grand lobby. Pick up a map in the lobby to find the various areas where the entries are displayed.

Dillsboro Mural Project on Kickstarter

A mural project called "On Hallowed Ground" by NC Artist Doreyl Ammons Cain is proposed for the town of Dillsboro NC. The project is now on Kickstarter and needs your support to continue. CLICK HERE to get details and make a contribution beginning at $10.

"On Hallowed Ground" will show the interaction of Scotch Irish settlers, the Cherokee Native Americans and the founding of the small town, Dillsboro, NC, in the 1880’s. There are tales of feuds, hardships and Love. All these stories will be painted into the mural within the backdrop of the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
The town of Dillsboro will benefit from this project as it is intended to be a re-awakening of the heart of the town, a journey to being an art destination and a thriving town again. 

It will take 9 months to paint the mural,  planed for completion by October 1, 2013. It will be shear coated with a protectant that will keep the sun’s rays out and retain the color for decades outside. The mural will be placed in Dillsboro and unveiled on October 5th at 10:00 AM to begin the annual ColorFest, Art & Taste of Appalachia festival.

Be a part of this exciting project by pledging your support to make this mural a reality! The money you pledge will be used to buy museum quality mural paint, brushes, preserved mural board and will pay for time doing research, creating a large comprehensive drawing and painting the mural for 9 months.
There will be a 1st edition fine art, museum quality art print made of "On Hallowed Ground" and you will receive one of these 150 limited edition prints with your pledge of $25 or more. If you pledge now you can be assured of a 1st edition art print. For those who pledge after the first 15 days, you will receive a 2nd edition hand signed and numbered fine art print and your name will be on a plaque attached to the mural.
Kickstarter is an 'all or nothing'  online funding resource.  If  the goal of $8000  is not reached between December 4th and January 4, the town will receive none of the pledges and no one will benefit. So pass this Kickstarter site on to your friends and give your support today!

Hometown Christmas and Crafts in West Jefferson

Now through December 28   6th Annual Hometown Christmas   Come to historic downtown West Jefferson and enjoy the Festival of Trees at the Ashe Arts Center, participate in the handmade and home-grown Holiday Market at the Farmer's Market and stroll the streets and galleries of the historic downtown area, all dressed up for the Christmas season.

Last Chance to See the 5th Annual Sculpture for the Garden

The 5th Annual Sculpture for the Garden  at the Grovewood Gallery ends on December 31.  The invitational show features contemporary sculptures by nationally-recognized artists. Sculptures range from playful pieces suitable for the home or garden, to works for public spaces and corporate settings.

2012 PARTICIPATING ARTISTS INCLUDE:
Ralph Berger, Stefan Steebo Bonitz, Grace Cathey, Cricket Forge & Don Drumm, Jeff Hackney, Roger Martin, Royal Miree, Sean Pace, Dale Rogers, Lyman Whitaker, and Charles McBride White

The Grovewood Gallery is located at 111 Grovewood Rd in Asheville NC

Holiday Gallery Walk this Weekend in Brevard

December 21   Holiday Gallery Walk   Finish your holiday shopping while exploring the downtown Brevard art galleries and art stores that are staying open late from 5-9 PM.

John C Campbell Folk School 2013 Catalog Now Available

The 2013 Folk School Catalog The new 2013 Folk School Catalog is now available and ready for your 2013 class wish list now. Explore your creative side in a non-competitive, hands-on learning environment in 2013.  From Basketry to Writing, you can choose from over 800 week-long and weekend classes in 47 different disciplines. Settle down with a warm cup of tea, and take pleasure in perusing classes that will help enrich your life in the New Year.  Catalog eBook Available       Perfect for iPads, iPhones, and computers, the Folk School Catalog is now available as an ebook on their website. You can still enjoy the good old printed version, but now you can view it online, too!. John C Campbell Folk School is located at 1 folk School Road in Brasstown NC. View the Folk School 2013 Catalog HERE.

Museum Membership for Last Minute Christmas Gifts

Let the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum be your last minute shopping solution. Year-end donations, memberships, gift certificates available As the year comes to a close, please consider a contribution to the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum.

You can handle the entire transaction on your computer or telephone. BRAHM’s well-being depends on funding from supporters. You may designate a donation in honor or memory of a loved one and we will notify them of your generosity. 

Or what about giving a Gift Membership to someone who would enjoy participating in the Museum’s activities? There are gift certificates for the Museum's popular Cork & Canvas classes as well.

Large or small, your gift will be greatly appreciated. Call Santa at the Museum (828.295.9099 x3001), or click this link  to pay securely online.

Holiday Gallery Walk in Brevard

December 21   Holiday Gallery Walk   Finish your holiday shopping while exploring the downtown Brevard art galleries and art stores that are staying open late from 5-9 PM.

Random Arts Open for Saluda Hometown Christmas

December 14 - Join Random Arts located at 481 Louisiana Avenue in Saluda NC from 5 PM to 9 PM for Saluda's Hometown Christmas celebration. Enjoy seasonal refreshments and spirited holiday drinks from some of the most creative and inspirational art and craft enthusiasts in the NC mountains.

Last Chance to Register for Cool Craft Market: Holiday Edition and VIP Preview Party

December 14-16, 2012

 

VIP Preview Party

Friday, Dec 14, 5pm-8pm

$10 + one item for Homeward Bound of Asheville. See below for items to bring.

 

Market

Saturday, 10am -5pm, free
Sunday, 11-4pm, free

 

Location: HandMade in America Office HandMade in America is located at 125 S. Lexington, Suite 101 Asheville, NC 28801. HandMade in America's front doors are located on Hilliard Avenue between S. Lexington Ave. and Church Street.

 

Parking information:
Free HandMade in America parking is available in the Wild Wing Cafe overflow parking lot, located on Church Street. The gravel lot that is located directly across from HandMade in America has turned into paid parking. Parking on the street is free after 6:00pm, and there is a new public parking garage two blocks away, located at the Aloft Hotel.

 

This December, HandMade in America is excited to  host its first annual Cool Craft Market: Holiday Edition. This Market will feature 25 vendors from around Western North Carolina, selling both functional and decorative items including clothing, accessories, pottery, natural products, kitchenware, and ornaments. The Cool Craft Market will be a fantastic place to find one of a kind gifts ranging from $5-$300, just in time for the holidays!

 

On Friday, December 14th from 5-8:00pm HandMade in America is having a VIP Preview Party, with item donations to benefit Homeward Bound of Asheville, a group with a mission to end chronic homelessness in the city. Guests of the party will have their first choice on market items as well as free food and drink to celebrate the holiday season. Come enjoy local craft and local music by the Willows. Local wine and food will be served. Tickets will cost $10 and HandMade asks that everyone bring one item from the Homeward Bound of Asheville necessity's list. (See below)

 

This Party is sponsored by Element Advertising, WNC Magazine, Storm Rhum Bar and Bistro, SignARama, Asheville Brewing Company and Homeward Bound.

 

Items to Bring

*Homeward Bound items are not required on Saturday and Sunday but we will still accept donations throughout the weekend.

For A HOPE
Ground Coffee
Toilet Paper
Disposable Razors
Sugar

For Pathways to Permanent Housing
Cleaning Supplies – Trash bags, paper towels, all-purpose cleaners
Toilet brush, Broom, Mop, Dust pan
Plates, Bowls, Cups, Silverware
Pots and Pans
Coffee Pots
Dishrags/Dish Towels
Toasters
Microwaves
Shower Curtains, Liner, and Rings
Pillows
Blankets/Comforters
Sheets (full and queen)

 

Participating Artists

 

Ryan-Ashley Anderson
Linda Azar
Anja Bartels
Elynn  Bernstein
Amy Brandenburg
Julie Fawn Boisseau
Melanie Carreira
Chad Alice Hagen
Linda LaBelle
Jude Lally
Cara  May
Sandra McCartney
Mary  Mikkelsen & Henry Pope
Dyann Myers
Christopher Perryman
Susan Seidman
Michon Sentner
Matthew Smith
Cara Steinbuchel
Lori Theriault
Barbara Updike
Anita Walling
Doc Welty
Sheree White Sorrells
Daniele Wickel
 

For more information about HandMade in America visit the website at handmadeinamerica.org or contact Janelle Wienke (jwienke@handmadeinamerica.org). 

 

Special Saluda Holiday Market this Weekend

December 15   Saluda Special Holiday Market  Grab your basket, put on your hat and perhaps some gloves, and meet neighbors and visitors in the west end parking lot to support the Saluda area's local growers. This Saturday will be the second (and last) after season Holiday Market. There will be 20+ vendors with seasonal produce, frozen meats, fresh fish, cheese, eggs, jams, jellies, pickles, and baked goodies.

There will also be crafts for this market that are made with locally grown agricultural materials. Come prepared to take care of your Christmas gift list or stock your freezer and pantry and decorate your home for the holidays. This will be the last Market until spring.

New Jim Carson Exhibit Opens in Saluda

NC plein air painter Jim Carson

December 15 - Jim Carson Exhibit Opening   The Saluda Center will host a show of Jim Carson's oil paintings from his recent three week plein air painting trip to France. The show, titled "Paintings from Paris and the French Countryside," will have an opening reception from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The exhibit will be on display through January 15.

Winter Wonderland and Gingerbread Houses at the Grove Arcade

 Winter Wonderland at the Grove Arcade For the seventh year, the Arcade will display entries from the National Gingerbread House Competition and beautiful holiday décor in a Winter Wonderland setting. Visitors to the building will notice new flocked trees on the spiral staircases, a beautiful tree and lighted antique deer vignette in the West Arcade entry and much more. Shop the Arcade's shops and galleries for the perfect holiday gift.

This event continues through January 2, 2013.

Holiday Crafts FIreside Sale continues at John C Campbell Folk School

December 2- 24  Holiday Gifts by the Fireside  at John C Campbell Folk School The School's Craft Shop will be offering 15% off during the Fireside Sale. The 15% off sale will last from November 25 to December 24. Shop for handmade gifts made by local and regional artists in a variety of media including jewelry, fiber, wood items, forged metal, pottery, and more.

River Arts Disctrict Second Saturday this Weekend

December 8   River Arts District Second Saturday   Asheville’s River Arts District Artists open their studios for a day of family friendly fun, educational experiences, live demonstrations and to share their creations. Visit dozens of artists working in all types of media, available for viewing or purchase.

Find NC crafts for Holiday gift-giving this weekend at The Folk Art Center's Guild Artist Holiday Sale

December 8     Guild Artist Holiday Sale   The Southern Highland Craft Guild presents the annual Holiday crafts sale at the Folk Art Center from 10 AM - 4 PM, milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Choose from a variety of gift items - at special prices -  including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass and wood.  Buying from artists supports the local economy and promotes the mission of the Guild which is bringing together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation.

Asheville Chocolate and Arts Festival this Weekend

December 8  Asheville Chocolate and Arts Festival  A multicultural arts event featuring performers, musicians and dancers from Asheville and beyond. Experience local artisans, baskets and basket weaving demonstrations by Gullah artisans, cultural arts and education by members of the Cherokee Nation, Bellydancing, African dance, Argentine Tango, Hip Hop, and local chocolate tasting by Asheville's finest chocolatiers and dessert-makers.

Performers will also be teaching classes in: Drumming, Bellydance, Tango, West African Dance, and digeridoo throughout the day which are all included in your ticket price. This is a family friendly event with Local children's performance artists Juan Halladay and the Secret B-sides, balloon twisting, face painting, and dance workshops. 25% of proceeds will be donated to Urban Arts Institute and Odyessy School to fund multicultural arts education for Asheville youth.

Holiday Edition of the Cool Craft Market at HandMade in America

December 14-16  at HandMade in America, 125 S. Lexington Avenue Suite 101 in Asheville NC - Cool Craft Market, Holiday Edition. HandMade in America presents the Cool Craft Market: Holiday Edition, an opportunity to buy Handmade gifts for the Holidays during a 3 day market featuring 25 local artists.

VIP Preview Party Friday, December 14th from 5-8 PM. Admission is $10 at the door plus donations are accepted for Homeward Bound. To find out what you can bring for Homeward Bound, visit the website.

Hours are Saturday, December 15, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Sunday, December 16, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Waynesville Art After Dark this Week

December 7   Art After Dark   Downtown galleries and studios remain open until 9 PM. The evening features special openings, demonstrations, artist receptions, and music.

Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk

December 7   Asheville Downtown Gallery Association Art Walk   Enjoy the fine art and craft of the Asheville Downtown Gallery Association and see on of the reasons Asheville has been voted #1 small city in the country by the readers of American Style Magazine 2 years running.

25 downtown venues participate with a complete Downtown Gallery Guide and a map available at any participating downtown gallery, the Chamber of Commerce, or Pack Place.

John C Campbell Folk School Fireside Holiday Crafts Sale

December 2   Holiday Gifts by the Fireside  at John C Campbell Folk School Stroll through the Folk School's Keith House, beautifully decorated for Christmas. Cozy up to the fire in the Community Room and shop for holiday gifts handmade by local and regional artists. Enjoy live music and visit the artists in Davidson Hall, located next to the Craft Shop.

The School's Craft Shop will be offering 15% off during the Fireside Sale. The 15% off sale will last from November 25 to December 24. Shop for handmade gifts made by local and regional artists in a variety of media including jewelry, fiber, wood items, forged metal, pottery, and more.

Holiday Crafts Event: Annual Potters Market Today in Marion

December 1  Annual Appalachian Potters Market An annual event held inside the McDowell High School gymnasium where you'll find 66 North Carolina potters representing all types and styles ranging from daily, functional pottery to whimsical, decorative pieces, plus jewelry and ornamental pieces. Admission is $4.00.

Holiday Crafts: West Jefferson Christmas Gallery Crawl

November 30    West Jefferson Gallery Christmas Crawl   Stroll the streets of an historic mountain town, enjoy the cool mountain breeze while listening to the sounds of street musicians and "popping" in and out of West Jefferson's many galleries. Open House in more than 15 art galleries and studios.

HandMade in America Exhibit: FLUX:A Craft Exchange

November 30 - February 22 at HandMade in America, 125 Lexington Avenue,Suite 101 in Asheville NC:

  

Opening Reception

Friday, November 30, 5:30pm-8pm

At HandMade in America

HandMade in America has been working with Flux Studios of Mt. Rainier, Maryland, a suburb of Washington D.C., to exchange exhibits in an effort to share new ideas and demonstrate the importance for artists to stay abreast of national trends. Flux Studios resident artists will be exhibiting work at HandMade in America while artists from the Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts will be showing at Flux Studios; these handcrafted items will travel nearly 500 miles.

 

Flux Studios is an arts space in Northeast DC that houses the studios of six professional sculptors, a large classroom space and an informal exhibition gallery. The underlying concept behind Flux is one of exploration, experimentation and dialog among its members and the greater arts community. Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts is an Asheville-based school and studio which promotes the understanding, appreciation and professional development in the ceramic arts. To find more about Flux Studios, click here

 

Novie Trump, founder of Flux and one of the residents featured in the exhibition says, “We are delighted to collaborate with HandMade in America on an exchange exhibition.  This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce artists and collectors in the DC area to the work of NC ceramicists.  In addition, the members of Flux are excited to present our work to the arts community in Asheville. This continues our tradition of exchange and our desire to engage in an active dialogue with artists and arts enthusiasts both nationally and internationally.”

Participating Artists

Jessica Beels
Andy Hamilton
Inga Hamilton
Jeff Herrity
Tamara Laird
Laurel Lukaszewski
Novie Trump
Elizabeth Vorlicek

Holiday Crafts Sale at the Folk Art Center in Asheville

December 1   Guild Artist Holiday Sale   The Southern Highland Craft Guild presents the annual Holiday crafts sale at the Folk Art Center from 10 AM - 4 PM, milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Choose from a variety of gift items - at special prices -  including ceramics, jewelry, fiber, paper, glass and wood. 

Buying from artists supports the local economy and promotes the mission of the Guild which is bringing together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation. An additional date is Dec 8 with different artists participating,
The Guild Artists’ Holiday Sale is held on December 1 and again on December 8. 70+ Members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild will be on hand in the center’s auditorium on these two Saturdays, with different artists each day,  to sell select work 10-50% off regular retail. 

While at the Folk Art Center, be sure to visit all three galleries showcasing the work of current Guild members and collections from the Guild’s history.  Member work is also available at Allanstand Craft Shop, the nation’s oldest craft gallery, located within the Folk Center.

Learn more about NC mountain crafts and artists on the NC Mountain Crafts Guide.

25th Hard Candy Christmas Arts and Crafts Show

November 23 -  24   Hard Candy Christmas Arts and Crafts Show    Mountain Artisans presents the 25th Hard Candy Christmas Arts and Crafts Show. This mountain Christmas Tradition features original arts and crafts at a great price. It is held each year at the Ramsey Center at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee NC. Free parking is available.

Holiday Crafts at Beech Mountain Fair

November 24     Holiday Market Craft Fair  An annual Holiday Market at the Buckeye Recreation Center held from 11am-3pm. Spend the day with the family or get your holiday shopping done with the unique  arts and crafts that will be offered by local artisans.

Learn more about the Holiday Craft Market Fair and Beech Mountain on the Beech Mountain NC Visitor Guide.

Heartwood Gallery Celebrates Small Business Saturday

November 24 -  Small Business Saturday, celebrating its third year, falls between black Friday and cyber Monday on Thanksgiving weekend. Created in 2009 to recognize small businesses as the heart of the American economy and encourage customer support in uncertain economic times, Small Business Saturday has become a boon to independent retailers. Last year over 100 million consumers came together to "shop small" and celebrate all that small local businesses do for their communities.

Shop at Saluda's Heartwood Gallery on Small Business Saturday and accomplish the best of both the business and the art worlds: Shop locally and support NC art and crafts.

Heartwood Gallery offers handmade wearables, jewelry, paper, paintings, fine porcelain, stoneware, glass, metal and wood are just a few of the crafts on display. The Gallery is a destination well worth considering when you're looking for a special indulgence for yourself, your home or a friend. One of a kind describes not only the items found at Heartwood, but also the unique quality of the Gallery itself.  Heartwood Gallery is located at 21  East Main Street in Saluda NC.

Learn more about Saluda NC HERE

HandMade in America Exhibition and Opening Reception

November 30 - February 22 2013 FLUX:A Craft Exchange

 

Opening Reception - Friday, November 30, 5:30pm-8pm at HandMade in America

 

HandMade in America has been working with Flux Studios of Mt. Rainier, Maryland, a suburb of Washington D.C., to exchange exhibits in an effort to share new ideas and demonstrate the importance for artists to stay abreast of national trends. Flux Studios resident artists will be exhibiting work at HandMade in America while artists from the Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts will be showing at Flux Studios; these handcrafted items will travel nearly 500 miles.

 

Flux Studios is an arts space in Northeast DC that houses the studios of six professional sculptors, a large classroom space and an informal exhibition gallery. The underlying concept behind Flux is one of exploration, experimentation and dialog among its members and the greater arts community. Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts is an Asheville-based school and studio which promotes the understanding, appreciation and professional development in the ceramic arts.

 

Novie Trump, founder of Flux and one of the residents featured in the exhibition says, “We are delighted to collaborate with HandMade in America on an exchange exhibition.  This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce artists and collectors in the DC area to the work of NC ceramicists.  In addition, the members of Flux are excited to present our work to the arts community in Asheville. This continues our tradition of exchange and our desire to engage in an active dialogue with artists and arts enthusiasts both nationally and internationally.”

 

Participating Artists

Jessica Beels
Andy Hamilton
Inga Hamilton
Jeff Herrity
Tamara Laird
Laurel Lukaszewski
Novie Trump
Elizabeth Vorlicek

For more about HandMade in America information, visit the website at handmadeinamerica.org or contact Yoko Morris at ymorris@handmadeinamerica.org.

The Center for Craft Creativity and Design New Exhibit

New Exhibition: Harvey's Legacy: The Next Generation of Studio Glass in Western North Carolina   

The year 2012 marks the 50th anniversary of the development of studio art glass in America. To celebrate this milestone, The Center for Craft,Creativity & Design presents "Harvey's Legacy: The Next Generation of Studio Glass in Western North Carolina", an exhibition of work by studio glass movement founder Harvey K. Littleton as well as exceptional glass artists of generations X and Y who are working in the region. Western North Carolina's Toe River Valley was home to Littleton, who settled there after his retirement, and now includes a growing community of over 50 notable glass artists. 

Opening Reception: Thursday, December 6th, 5-7 PM
The Center for Craft, Creativity & Design
1181 Broyles Rd. Hendersonville NC 28791  

Support the featured artists by purchasing an item from the gallery. Buy a pint glass at the opening and get a free beer courtesy of Asheville's Highland Brewing Company.

Join the raffle at the opening to win hot shop and flameworking classes at the Asheville Glass Center, private lessons from exhibitors Kathryn Adams and Hayden Wilson, vases, ornaments, and more. A portion of proceeds from the raffle and gallery sales will go towards subsidizing the first glass course at Warren Wilson College as well as future programming by The Center for Craft, Creativity & Design.

Live Glassblowing Demonstrations: Saturday, December 8th, 10-6 PM at the Asheville Glass Center, 140C Roberts St. Asheville, NC.  On Saturday, December 8th, join the Asheville Glass Center staff and exhibitors Kathryn Adams, Ben Elliot, Ben Greene-Colonnese, Justin Turcotte, Hayden Wilson with special guests Alex Bernstein, Penland Resident Artist Micah Evans and exhibition curator Lauren Pelletier for exciting glassblowing and flameworking demonstrations to be held at the Asheville Glass Center in the River Arts District.  

John C Campbell Folk School Holiday Events

At John C Campbell Folk School the December calendar is filled to the brim with concerts, dances, parties, and activities. Learn to make a wreath, buy gifts from local artists, enjoy holiday pageantry, music, and merriment. For details about the following events visit the Folk School website, email or call 828-837-2775.

Wreath Making
Nov. 29, 7 p.m. Community Room. Free. Spaces fill up fast.
Decorating Day
Dec. 1, 9 a.m.-12p.m. Community Room. Free. Spaces fill up fast
Fireside Sale 
Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Keith House and Davidson Hall. Free.
Holiday in the Mountains Week
Dec. 2-8. Space is still available.
Ancient Carols with David Vowell
Dec. 3, 7 p.m. Community Room. Free.
Beginner Contra & Square Dance
Dec. 4, 7-8 p.m. Community Room. Free.
"A Christmas Carol" Reading by Bob Grove
Dec. 5, 7-8 p.m. Community Room. Keith House. Free.
Brasstown Morris Dancers' Performance
Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Community Room. Keith House. Free.
Smokie Mountain Melodies
Dec. 6, 7 p.m. Community Room. Keith House. Free.
Brasstown Ringers Holiday Concert
Dec. 7, 7 p.m. Community Room. Keith House. Free. Donations welcome.
Kids' Party
Dec. 15, 1-3 p.m. Community Room. Keith House. Free.
Holiday Contra Dance
Dec. 15, 8 p.m. Community Room. Keith House. Free.
Winter Dance Week
Dec. 26-Jan 1, 2013. Space is still available.

HandMade Holidays Exhibit at Desert Moon Designs Studios & Gallery

Anita Walling pinch pot

November 3 - January 5 at Desert Moon Designs Studios & Gallery, 372 Depot Street in the River Arts District, Asheville NC   The annual juried Handmade Holiday Exhibition celebrates a season of giving handmade.  From jewelers to ceramicists, clothing to handmade soaps, you will  experience local hand-crafted artisan works that are unique and affordable. With some amazing one-of-a-kind gifts, Desert Moon is a great place for holiday shopping.  Open 7 days a week.

Holiday Open House at Waynesville Galleries

November 18     Holiday Open House   Spend the afternoon enjoying the sights, scents and sounds as the holiday season begins in festively decorated shops and galleries. Enjoy holiday music offered by area Church groups and elementary school choruses. Visit with Santa as he strolls the sidewalks and sample tasty refreshments offered by the local bed & breakfasts on the Cookie Tour.

Learn more about Waynesville Galleries HERE.

Holiday Crafts: Foothills Holiday Arts and Crafts Show

November 17-18   Foothills Holiday Arts and Crafts Show    Find unique gifts during this year's pre-Thanksgiving arts and crafts show in Marion at the YMCA. The area's best talent will be showcased for two days including oil, pastel and watercolor paintings, drawings, wood and metal works, textile arts, jewelry and much more. Commercial vendors are not allowed at this event.

You'll find regional artists with unique points of view exhibited in their work. Vendors will be set up inside and outside the Corpening YMCA. Enjoy live regional music during the show. The Arrowhead Artists and Artisans League of Old Fort and the McDowell Arts Council have partnered to bring you this special event.

Show Hours are Saturday, November 17th between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. Sunday hours are 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm.

Get information about Marion cabin rentals, mountain inns and nearby attractions on the Marion NC Visitor Guide.

HandMade for the Holidays

The Stecoah Artisans Gallery is open 10 AM to 5 PM,  Monday through Saturday with hundreds of locally hand-crafted items for everyone on your holiday list.

The Gallery showcases the work of 135-plus artisans including the 40-plus members of the Stecoah Artisans Guild, a juried membership organization, as well as the Associate Artists of the Guild. A majority of the artisans are self-taught, while some are academically trained. Also featured are many talented Cherokee Indian artists whose beadwork, pottery, masks and other artworks are produced today in the traditional ways of their ancestors.

The Gallery is located in The Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center, 121 Schoolhouse Road in Robbinsville (also known as Stecaoh)  NC.

Reminder: River Arts District Stroll This Weekend

November 10-11 in Asheville NC:  River Arts District Studio Stroll   The largest and most walkable tour of working artists' studios in the region, the River Arts District Studio Stroll takes place in 19 historic buildings along the French Broad River. There will be artists' demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout the weekend.

Shop handmade and "Give a Gift of Art," this holiday season. Browse through over 200 different artist studios within a 1 1/2 mile stretch.  There are family friendly festivities for all ages.  Enjoy artists demonstrations, hands-on activities, music, food and more at the River Arts District Studio Stroll. 10 AM  to 6 PM both days.  Get your stroll on...

The Stroll is easily accessible by car from Downtown, West Asheville and Biltmore Village, and there is plenty of parking. Catch the trolley at Riverview Station or any of the stops listed on the map. An Information Booth is located at the 5-points intersection of Depot St. across from the Clingman Café.

HandMade in American Annual Appeal Campaign

HandMade in American has announced its Annual Appeal Campaign, entitled Building Economies Through Craft.  The campaign is running two ways this fall, as it did last year:
 

Those of you who are on the mailing list will receive a letter, and those who are not will receive an email asking you to support HandMade via our indiegogo website.  Because the membership program launches in January 2013,  including a membership with your end-of-year donation would be extra incentive for you to donate to HandMade.

 

HandMade has had a very successful year, but can’t continue doing their great work without the support of individuals like you.  In the past 18 years, HandMade has been 94-98% grant dependent and has never charged for any services. Neither of these are viable business models, so for HandMade to keep doing great work they must  move toward a more sustainable, healthy means of operation.

 

After an in-depth evaluation process and establishing a business plan, a fee-for-services business model has been created. 

 

Costs will include:

• Listing on our new Craft Registry: $24/year
• Craft Labs: $20 each
• One-on-one consulting: $35/hour
• Small Town Conversations: $30 each
• Small Towns Summit: $75 each
• Entering an exhibition: $10 each entry
• AWE program participation: $30/year

 

If you chose to join as a member, you get free or discounted rates and privileges to participate in other wonderful opportunities for members only. If you can’t afford to join as a member,  our services will still be available with an “a la carte” style menu.  Membership payments are also available, if you are unable to pay the whole amount up front.

 

The Membership Program officially launches January 2013, but for a limited time if you donate before December 25, 2012, your donation will include your membership.  Whether you join online at our indiegogo campaign or send in your check via the mail, you will also receive the other wonderful perks that can be found at indiegogo.com/handmade.

 

HandMade is moving into a new era like the rest of the world.  This recession hasn’t been easy for anyone, and HandMade still had lots of great work. With the new Membership Program, the future is assured.

Market on Oak Announces Final editions of Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree products

The Market on Oak (formerly The Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree) has announced that all of their limited edition Home of the Perfect Christmas Tree handmade products will be retired on December 31st.  All of the handmade items featuring images from the book The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree,  will no longer be available after December 31st. The Market will still offer our hundreds of beautiful handmade products, local foods, music and books....but those special colletibles will no longer be available.

These items are no longer in production by the Market artists and supplies are limited. So ANY ITEM featuring images from the YPCT book will retire. Items include Marquitta Holtsclaw glass art plates, Linda Sharpless pottery plates and mugs with tree, greeting cards featuring scenes from the book, Ruthie Dolls and more.  If you;re a fan of the book or these products, you are encouraged to act quickly to make sure that you don't miss this opportunity to add to your collection or find a "perfect" gift..

The Market on Oak, now in its 9th year, is located at 262 Oak Street in Spruce Pine North Carolina.   Online shopping is also available for some of the Market's products.

Van Wingerden International Open House this Weekend

November 10    Van Wingerden International Open House  10:00 AM-3:00 PM See acres of poinsettias in full bloom.  Staff will be on hand to share how the plants are grown using environmental friendly technology and answer questions.

The greenhouses located on Highway 191 (Haywood Road) between Asheville and Hendersonville. Enjoy the ocean of Christmas Poinsettias and other flowering plants before they are shipped to retail stores for the holidays.

Holiday Bazaar at the Historic Carson House this Weekend

November 9    Historic Carson House Holiday Bazaar   Held at St. John’s Episcopal Church Parish House from 11:00 AM until 7:00 PM. St. John's Parrish House is located at 289 S. Main Street in downtown Marion. Join members of the Carson House Partners to purchase crafts, baked goods and peruse a white elephant sale. Enjoy a soup and salad lunch from 11:00 AM. - 2 PM. All of the proceeds from this bazaar go to benefit the Historic Carson House.

River Arts District Studio Stroll this Weekend

November 10-11   River Arts District Studio Stroll  The flargest and most walkable tour of working artists' studios in the region, the River Arts District Studio Stroll takes place in 19 historic buildings along the French Broad River. There will be artists' demonstrations and hands-on activities throughout the weekend.


The Stroll is easily accessible by car from Downtown, West Asheville and Biltmore Village, and there is plenty of parking. Catch the trolley at Riverview Station or any of the stops listed on the map. An Information Booth is located at the 5-points intersection of Depot St. across from the Clingman Café.

Gallery Minerva Presents Anne Bachelier

Gallery Minerva has announced that internationally acclaimed figurative artist, Anne Bachelier, will be joining the gallery on Saturday, November 10th, from 6pm - 9pm  to celebrate her latest body of paintings, drawings and the first edition release  of her most recent book, 13 Plus One. 

"Les Silences du Vent", 20" x 20", Oil on Canvas

 

13 Plus One is an anthology of short stories and poetry by Edgar Allan Poe, profusely illustrated by Bachelier. This first edition release includes a Standard Edition of the book as well as a very limited Collector's Edition. Please contact the gallery for details.

 

WNC Pottery Festival today in Dillsboro

November 3  WNC Pottery Festival This event Showcases the work of more than 40 highly skilled potters from 13 states. A variety of clay art styles will be presented. |

Works by festival organizers and Dillsboro potters Joe Frank McKee & Travis Berning of Tree House Pottery, and Brant Barnes of Riverwood Pottery who has been featured on HGTV will be highlighted. The event is juried and the lineup of potters is impressive. $3 ticket includes a chance in a raffle; kids under 12 admitted free

Learn more about Dillsboro NC HERE

ArtsMart this Saturday in Old Fort

November 3   ArtsMart   Locally created arts and crafts displayed inside the historic Old Fort Depot. Stop by to chat with the creators of these one-of-a-kind items while you shop for yourself, family or friends. Something for everyone including baskets, paintings, woodwork, wreaths, candles and live demonstrations. Sponsored by Arrowhead Artists and Artisans League.

Ooh La La Curiosity Market this Weekend in Asheville

November 3    Ooh La La Curiosity Market   An outdoor market in Pritchard Park featuring works by local painters, leather smiths, jewelry makers, potters ,up-cycled crafters, and other curious delights, all beneath the colored canopies of large market umbrellas. In addition to the artists, the market will also feature live local music with up three musical acts performing each Saturday and will include everything from a solo saxophonist to folk, blues, acoustic, and jazz acts.

Witching you a Happy Halloween

Waynesville After Dark Art Walk this Weekend

November 2  Art After Dark   Downtown galleries and studios remain open until 9 PM. The evening features special openings, demonstrations, artist receptions, and music. 

Learn more about Waynesville Lodging, events and attractions on the Waynesville NC Visitor Guide.

Handmade in America Sponsors Asheville Cinema Festival

November 1- 4  The Asheville Cinema Festival (ACF) is the annual independent film festival produced by the Asheville Cinema Society the first weekend of every November. Handmade in America is a co-sponsor along with several local businesses. Filmmakers from around the country will be on hand to do Q&As for their films.

Filmmaker workshops will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Historic Masonic Lodge in Downtown Asheville (80 Broadway Street). Subjects include: YouHollywood: Creating and Marketing Films for Viral Audiences;   Editing Your Film: Beginnings, Endings, and Engaging the Audience; and,  Sexy Lighting Using What You’ve Got: A Minimalists’ Approach to Cinematography. 

The Opening Night film, Silver Linings Playbook, and the Closing Night film, Quartet, will play at the Regal Biltmore Grande in Biltmore Park.  Additional venues will host a variety of Festival events including a competition, awards ceremony and local independent films.


Find additional details and a schedule for the Asheville Cinema Festival HERE.