Zelda Fitzgerald Week is back, after last year’s annual event was canceled due to COVID-19. Also: North Carolina Stage Company debuts its latest production; Beer Sister Cities of Perpetual Indulgence release its latest online series; and more!
Creatives in the Crowd: Merlin Strivelli’s comic books feature local heroes
The local artist’s OHAC Justice comic book series takes place in Asheville and features superheroes based on staff members at Open Hearts Art Center.
Video premiere: Andrew Scotchie & the River Rats team up with The Get Right Band
Two local bands — Andrew Scotchie & the River Rats and The Get Right Band — cover each other’s songs for a pair of new music videos shot in Asheville.
Around town: Black History Month celebrations, live theater, virtual concerts and more
Rise Up: A Celebration of African American History and Culture returns for a second consecutive year with a virtual twist. Also: Asheville Wisdom Exchange launches; The Magnetic Theatre celebrates its first live performance of 2021; and plenty more.
Black business owners navigate distinct challenges and opportunities
New and experienced Black entrepreneurs discuss their arduous paths to success.
Wayne Caldwell celebrates his debut poetry collection and imaginary muse
Over the last two years, writer Wayne Caldwell has written poems based on imaginary conversations with his fictional character Posey Green. His forthcoming poetry collection, Woodsmoke, comes out Tuesday, Feb. 23.
Around town: Actors and poets needed, plus new art exhibits and online events
Want to dance? The Wortham Center for the Performing Arts is hosting a virtual ballet workshop. Want to act? Montford Park Players is currently seeking actors for the 2021 season. Want a free stay at a local bed and breakfast? Submit your poetry to The Writers’ Workshop’s annual contest and see if you win.
New digital archive examines Nina Simone’s relationship with Langston Hughes
In 1949, poet Langston Hughes spoke at the Allen High School in Asheville. One of the students in attendance was Eunice Waymon, later known professionally as Nina Simone. In time, the poet and the singer developed a unique relationship, which author and N.C. State University professor W. Jason Miller is currently documenting in an online archive, Backlash Blues: Nina Simone and Langston Hughes.
Jon Charles Dwyer, Spaceman Jones and the Motherships, Musashi Xero and Hustle Souls release new albums
Jon Charles Dwyer, Spaceman Jones and the Motherships, Musashi Xero and Hustle Souls discuss their latest projects.
Around town: The latest history talks, art exhibits and poetry contests
There are plenty of free virtual and in-person exhibits and educational opportunities in and around Asheville. Poets and visual artists are also being called to submit works for a pair of contests.
Black music and art takes center stage at the Buncombe County Special Collections
A recent collaboration between the Buncombe County Special Collections and local nonprofit Engaging Collections creates greater awareness and visibility of Asheville’s African American music and art.
Local artists adjust to life after contracting COVID-19
Bob “Zuzu” Welsh, Barrie Barton and Jeff Catanese share their experiences with COVID-19 and its lingering effects.
WNC Historical Association celebrates Black History Month with new exhibit
“When All God’s Children Get Together” emerged from the 624-page book by the same name, written in 2015 by Andrews-based artist and public speaker Ann Miller Woodford.
New and upcoming arts exhibits
See some of the latest art exhibits now on view in and around town.
Artist Lara Nguyen continues to create amid her battle with cancer
Warren Wilson College art professor Lara Nguyen reflects on her family and art as she confronts her ongoing battle with cancer.
One Arm Willie makes his mark on the local tattoo industry
Over the last five years, local tattoo artist One Arm Willie has left his mark on clients’ skin, while also challenging their ideas of what tattoo artists look like.
Local artists respond to pandemic challenges in creative ways
Xpress caught up with three local artists to discuss how COVID-19 has altered their creative approach.
Local arts leaders spotlight creators to watch in 2021
Local arts leaders in various mediums identify up-and-coming or underseen peers that readers should be on the lookout for in 2021.
Asheville Fringe Arts Festival embraces digital format
The festival’s 19th edition features shows designed for online presentation, plus a few socially distanced outdoor events.
Green in brief: SAHC conserves nearly 3,000 acres; OGS gets social
The Asheville-based nonprofit Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy’s work included both valuable wildlife habitats, such as the Wiles Creek and Little Rock Creek preserves, and prime farmland at risk of development. Sandy Hollar Farms in Buncombe County and Bowditch Bottoms in Yancey County were among the agricultural projects completed in 2020.
Checkmate: The Neal Harris experience
Neal Harris — one of only 10 members of the N.C. Chess Hall of Fame — discusses the game’s recent rise in popularity and the challenges of teaching local chess players amid COVID-19.