Paint by number

Art for art’s sake? According to the 2010 Arts and Economic Prosperity IV study, the benefits to the city and county are much greater — $43.7 million greater.

Conducted by Americans for the Arts, Asheville’s Cultural Affairs department and 38 area arts nonprofits, the study provides numerical evidence of the impact of nonprofit cultural organizations on the local, state and national levels. (Image from the Arts and Economic Prosperity IV brochure.)

Touring the town through art, from Deco to decoupage

Attention, locals and visitors: If you’re intrigued by Asheville’s creative climate, take advantage of LaZoom’s latest endeavour, the Asheville Art Tour. Hosted by local artist Gabriel Shaffer, the multi-axle expedition connects art enthusiasts to artists and offers a close look at the burgeoning art scene of Asheville from the open windows of the purple bus.

Photos by Zen Sutherland