Not only is purchasing handmade goods more inspirational than stressful, buying local puts more cash into the pockets of area artists and back into the local economy.

Not only is purchasing handmade goods more inspirational than stressful, buying local puts more cash into the pockets of area artists and back into the local economy.
The 50th edition of the annual folk dance camp returns to Blue Ridge Assembly, Nov. 28-Dec. 1.
On Saturday, Nov. 16, after nearly a year under construction, the Center for Craft will celebrate its grand reopening. The free event will feature new exhibits, a building tour, future-themed immersive installations, hands-on activities, music and food.
When Pattiy Torno (who moved to Asheville in the mid-’80s, attracted by creative culture and health consciousness) purchased the former Standard Oil distribution center, “this was out in the middle of nowhere,” she says.
The Southern Highland Craft Guild’s 72nd annual event returns to the U.S. Cellular Center, Oct. 17-20.
The Asheville Art Museum re-opens with two major exhibitions, Intersections in American Art and Appalachia Now!
On Saturday, Oct. 12, The Village Potters Clay Center will celebrate its eight year anniversary with a new exhibit, Women of Influence: Honoring Women Who Shape Us.
Thanks to new grant funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission and Community Foundation of Western North Carolina, says BRNHA Executive Director Angie Chandler, counties in WNC’s High Country are next on the list for craft tourism development and its projected economic benefits.
“I wish I could make a proclamation for Asheville: If you move here, you have to buy local art,” says Sherry Masters of Art Connections.
The 10th annual American Craft Week takes place Friday, Oct. 4-Sunday, Oct. 13.
Western Carolina University’s annual celebration of Southern Appalachian returns to campus on Sept. 28.
Seung Jun Seo debuts his new ceramics show on Sept. 13 at Gallery 101.
The East End/Valley Street Community Heritage Festival offers a celebration specific to that section of town and its past and present inhabitants. Organizers will recognize the oldest living residents of the neighborhood — one is a nonagenarian — and Aggie Jean Jackson, author of two books set in Asheville’s East End, will be on hand to discuss and sign copies of her works.
Crystal Cauley has scheduled a second Black Art & Craft Exhibition for Saturday, Aug. 10, at Emanuel’s Corner in Hendersonville. It will showcase art and craft, highlight local African American history, and celebrate Jamaicans living in the area.
The 47th annual showcase returns to Biltmore Village on Aug. 3-4.
As part of our Home Style Issue, we scrolled through Instagram looking for local handles that focus on home decor and design. Below are some of the highlights we discovered.
When it comes to furnishing and decorating an abode, Ashevilleans also vary in taste and style. Xpress spoke to The Regeneration Station and the Shelter Design Studio for ideas.
RiverLink’s annual festivities take place July 20 on the French Broad River and at New Belgium Brewing Co.
The 36th annual celebration of dance, music and culture from around the world runs July 18-28 across Western North Carolina.
The 72nd annual fair returns to the U.S. Cellular Center, July 18-21.
Local artist Neil Carroll’s exhibit of graffiti-inspired, mixed-media art and fine furniture opens July 13 at Grovewood Gallery.