By now, North Carolina’s reputation as an arts destination is well known, but did you know that it played a significant role in the history of the Studio Glass Movement in America? Since Harvey Littleton first moved to the area in the late 1970s, Western North Carolina has cultivated a thriving community of glass makers and supporting organizations. Today, we speak to Candace Reilly, who has been an active member of the arts community in Asheville for almost a decade and currently serves as Executive Director of Asheville’s largest public-access glass studio and gallery, the North Carolina (NC) Glass Center. As an advocate with a fervent commitment to nurturing creative talent, Candace believes that integrated arts education is critical for a more enriched and socially cohesive community. In today's episode, she gives us a glimpse into the history of glass and how the NC Glass Center is not only upholding traditions but democratizing the future of studio glass practice for an ever-expanding community of glass artists! Tune in for all this and more in another fascinating installment of the Artsville Podcast.Key Points From This Episode:An overview of Candace’s background and her role at the NC Glass Center.Insight into the history of glass and glass artists in North Carolina.How you can learn about glass at the NC Glass Center.What to expect from the Dale Chihuly exhibition at Biltmore Estate.The explosive growth that led to NC Glass Center’s second location in Black Mountain.Different ways that NC Glass Center generates income (and how you can support them!)Where you can find the NC Glass Center online and how to contact them.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:North Carolina (NC) Glass Center — https://www.ncglasscenter.org/“Glass on the Go" — https://www.ncglasscenter.org/mobile-unitNC Glass Center on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/ncglasscenter/NC Glass Center on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/NorthCarolinaGlassCenter/Chihuly at Biltmore — https://www.biltmore.com/things-to-do/events/chihuly-at-biltmore/Art Connections — https://www.arttoursasheville.com/Mountain BizWorks — https://www.mountainbizworks.org/Craft Your Commerce — https://www.mountainbizworks.org/craft-your-commerce/Ferguson Family YMCA — https://ymcawnc.org/locations/centers/ferguson‘Community Art, Friendship, and Healing: Artsville’s Partnership with the Ferguson Family YMCA in Candler’ — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/community-art-friendship-and-healing-artsvilles-partnership-with-the-ferguson-family-ymca-in-candler/Artsville Podcast —

In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Neuman and Stephanie Munn to discuss the importance of art in building and strengthening communities based on their personal experiences. Stephanie is the Director of the Ferguson Family YMCA in Candler, North Carolina, and Wendy is a photographer, fashion designer, volunteer, and marketing expert.In our conversation, Stephanie delves into the mission of the YMCA in fostering community connections and the wide range of programs they have for people of all ages and backgrounds. We discuss Wendy’s experiences as a photographer and fashion designer, including her work with cancer patients and her efforts to bring art into various organizations and events. We also talk about the importance of building friendships, building a safe place for children and families, Wendy’s Mandala and Kaleidoscope project, the role of art in bringing people together, why community engagement is essential, and much more! Join us, as we uncover the intersection of art, community, and healing with Wendy Neuman & Stephanie Munn!Key Points From This Episode:A brief update on Artsville's growth and new opportunities for 2024.The unique art scene and community of Candler and Enka.YMCA’s mission to build communities through inclusive programs.How Stephanie realized the potential of the Candler and Enka communities.Fostering artist-community engagement through Wendy’s workshops.Discover the collaborations and wearable art featuring Wendy’s photography.Stephanie shares details about the latest YMCA offerings and member benefits.Wendy’s experiences photographing terminally ill children and cancer patients.Why involvement with the YMCA is critical and how to get involved.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Artsville — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/Wendy Neuman | Clothing — https://wendynewmandesigns.com/Wendy Neuman | Photo — https://wendyneumanphoto.comWendy Neuman on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/wendynewmandesigns/Wendy Neuman on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/wendynewmandesigns/Wendy Neuman on on Pinterest — https://za.pinterest.com/WNDesigns/Stephanie Munn on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-mcgrath-munn-a11694275/Stephanie Munn on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/stephanie.munn/Call Stephanie Munn — 828-273-0346YMCA of Western North Carolina — https://ymcawnc.org/OpenDoors Asheville — https://opendoorsasheville.org/Arterial Network — https://artistsatriskconnection.orgScholastic Art and Writing Awards — https://www.artandwriting.org/Kenn Kotara —

In this episode, we introduce two bright young artists, Elizabeth Walton and Amy Massey, who are making waves in Western North Carolina and beyond. Both Elizabeth and Amy recently graduated from Artsville’s First Virtual Gallery of Artists Cohort program, a digital and live marketing initiative designed to help artists succeed in the business of art. Elizabeth is a talented jewelry designer, with a passion for metalsmithing, and Amy Massey is a 2D artist and massage therapist. In our conversation we delve into their journeys, discussing their inspirations, creative processes, and the impact of the program on their careers. We unpack what keeps them inspired, juggling different jobs, how to market yourself without a gallery, their unique approaches to their work, the biggest lessons from the Virtual Gallery of Artists program, and much more! Join us as we discuss their artistic journeys, the challenges they face, and the exciting future of arts in Asheville and beyond. Tune in now!Key Points From This Episode:Introductions and background about guests Elizabeth Walton and Amy Massey.Elizabeth’s journey from inheriting a studio to pursuing a sustainable metalsmithing practice.They share their main takeaways and lessons from the Virtual Gallery of Artists program.Amy discusses her unique fusion of art and bodywork and where she draws inspiration from.Discover Elizabeth’s design process and how nature influences her work.New friends and networking opportunities from the Virtual Gallery of Artists program.Explore their diverse career paths, including galleries and self-promotion through art festivals.Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities present in today's competitive art market.The vibrant arts scene in Asheville and the exciting prospects for artists in the future.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Amy Massey — https://www.amygmassey.com/Amy Massey on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/amymasseystudio/Ren Ren Jewelry — https://redrenjewelry.com/Ren Ren Jewelry on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/redrenjewelryRen Ren Jewelry on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/redrenjewelry/Not Real Art — https://notrealart.com/Arterial Network — https://artistsatriskconnection.orgAppalachian State University — https://www.appstate.edu/Sandhill Artists Collective — https://sandhillartists.wordpress.com/Woolworth Walk — https://www.woolworthwalk.com/Kenn Kotara — https://www.kotarastudio.com/Michael Manes — https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-manes-97379a8b/Blue Spiral 1 — https://bluespiral1.com/Art Connections with Sherry Masters —

Artworks are regularly sold at auctions around the world for record sums of money, but today’s guest believes that auctions serve a greater purpose than just growing the highest bidder’s collection. Every object is an invitation to consider our personal and collective histories through the unique and often fascinating story it has to tell. Today, you'll hear from a local auctioneer, Southern fine art specialist, and Senior Vice President of Brunk Auctions, Lauren Brunk. Brunk is a private auction house specializing in the sale of fine art, jewelry, antique furniture, coins, and countless other areas of collecting ranging from contemporary art to antiquities. In this episode, Lauren offers some insight into the world of auctions, the types of people that make up the buyers and sellers, how auctions retell the stories of the items they sell, and so much more. For a comprehensible guide to the secondary art market, be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Defining the secondary art market and how it differs from the primary art market.How virtual art sales have evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic.The wide variety of people who make up Brunk’s buyer and seller communities.Ways that auctions retell the story of the items they sell.Insight into the relationship between auction houses and museums.Lauren’s relationship with the Black Potter, Jim McDowell.How Brunk supports the next generation of art storytellers through community outreach.What the objects at art auctions can teach us about value.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Brunk Auctions — https://brunkauctions.com/Brunk Auctions on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/brunkauctions/Email Brunk Auctions — info@brunkauctions.comLauren Brunk on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-brunk-291ab51/Lauren Brunk on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/laurenb1969/Jim McDowell — https://blackpotter.com/‘Jim McDowell: The Need to Look Back in Order to Move Forward’ (Episode 13) — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/jim-mcdowell/Nasher Museum of Art — https://nasher.duke.edu/Ogden Museum of Southern Art — https://ogdenmuseum.org/A Question of Value: Stories from the Life of an Auctioneer — https://www.amazon.com/dp/1469678098Artsville — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton — http://www.tailsofwhimsy.com/Crewest Studio —

You wouldn’t think that a town of under 500 people could be home to a thriving art gallery, let alone two competing ones across the road from one another. But in Bakersville, North Carolina, that is exactly the case. Joining us today is Andy Palmer, who co-owns the In Tandem gallery with his wife Silvia Ferrari-Palmer on the main street, and Vicki Essig, who runs Mica, another beautiful gallery just across the road. We talk with Andy and Vicki about their work as artists, and how the symbiotic relationship between their two galleries has contributed to the rich artistic community of Bakersville. Tuning in you’ll learn about the process behind Vicki’s incredible artworks (woven by silkworms!) and how her small community has supported her labor-intensive creations. She also shares the powerful story of a pair of silk overalls made in honor of civil rights activist, Joyce Ladner, how they were sold to a descendent of hers, and what this fortuitous connection demonstrates about community building. We hear from Andy about how his wife’s digital outreach transformed their gallery, the immense impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on online sales, and how he utilizes his background in ceramics to find artists for their gallery. Our conversation also covers Mica and In Tandem’s approach to branding, the Toe River Council’s important work supporting artists, and details about Artsville's new virtual gallery of artists. To hear all the fascinating details of this thriving artistic community and how to partner with other galleries, be sure to tune in!Key Points From This Episode:Get to know today’s guests, Andy Palmer and Vicki Essig.Insight into Vicki’s weaving artworks and how she uses silkworms for her threads.The benefits of being part of a small community and how they have supported her process.Details of Andy and his wife Silvia’s gallery, In Tandem.How Silvia improved digital outreach and how COVID-19 increased their online sales.Where they find their artists and how Andy uses his expertise as a ceramics artist.Vicki’s gallery Mica and its location across from In Tandem in their small town, Bakersville.How they work together instead of competing with one another.Mica’s selection process and how they support their artists.How Bakersfield’s thriving artistic community has supported economic growth in Bakersville.An overview of how In Tandem and Mica approaches branding.The Toe River Arts Council and their impactful work supporting artists.Details about the Hilloween event in the Blue Ridge Mountains.Learn about Artsville’s exciting new virtual gallery of artists.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Andy Palmer — https://www.intandemgallery.com/andy-palmer-bioIn Tandem Gallery — https://www.intandemgallery.com/Vicki Essig — https://www.vickiessig.com/Mica — https://www.micagallerync.com/Penland School of Craft — https://penland.org/The Toe River Arts Council — https://toeriverarts.org/Hilloween — https://www.hilloweennc.org/Hilloween: A Mechanism for Unity with Gina Phillips —

If you’re a regular listener of the Artsville Podcast, you are already familiar with the rich creative spirit of Asheville and the historical significance of arts and crafts in the region. We like to shout it from the rooftops! But did you know that Asheville is a world-class tourism destination for so many other reasons too? Today, we are joined by Marla Tambellini, Senior VP of Marketing at Explore Asheville, our local Convention and Visitors Bureau, to find out what makes Artsville such a desirable place to visit. “There are a lot of communities that can say they have food, they have music, they have art,” says Marla, “but I think there's a special combination that makes Asheville stand out.” In this episode, Marla highlights some of the various attractions in our special corner of North Carolina and offers some insight into the ways that Explore Asheville promotes economic development in the area, champions local artists, and invites a growing number of visitors each year. Tune in for a glimpse into what makes Asheville so unique!Key Points From This Episode:The significance of arts and crafts in Asheville and why it's integral to the visitor economy.Asheville’s eclectic community and the vibrancy that draws people in.Strategic ways that Explore Asheville promotes economic development.Insight into the profile of visitors that Asheville attracts.How Explore Asheville champions local artists and elevates art organizations.The unique creative spirit that draws people to Asheville.Learn how to apply for Artsville’s Virtual Gallery of Artists!Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Marla Tambellini on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlatambellini/Marla Tambellini on X — https://twitter.com/ashevillecvbAsheville Convention and Visitors Bureau — https://www.ashevillecvb.com/Explore Asheville — https://www.exploreasheville.com/Art Connection with Sherry Masters — https://www.arttoursasheville.com/Artsville Virtual Gallery of Artists — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/featured-artists/Artsville — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/Artsville Podcast — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/tag/podcast/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton — http://www.tailsofwhimsy.com/Crewest Studio — https://creweststudio.com/Sand Hill Artists Collective (SHAC) — https://sandhillartists.com/

In today’s episode of Artsville, you’ll hear from Gina Phillips, a dear friend and someone who has played an integral part in the growth and development of Mitchell County, North Carolina. Gina’s commitments to the Penland School of Craft, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and rural education efforts in Mitchell County helped birth the idea for Hilloween, a countywide event that unites several areas over something we all love: spooky season! Hilloween is a natural expression of Gina's love for the theater and her years of performing and producing in New York, New Jersey, and North Carolina. Join us as she shares how the event leverages the county's strong arts heritage and introduces a new generation of Mitchell County residents to the magic and beauty of the arts. We also discuss what to expect from the 2023 edition, how Hilloween acts as a “mechanism for unity,” and Gina even sings us a few bars of 'Good Old Mountain Dew’ from Lulu Belle and Scotty Wiseman, plus so much more!Key Points From This Episode:An introduction to Hilloween and the annual Halloween party that inspired it.Gina’s goals for economic and cultural development in Mitchell County.How art brings people together (and attracts outsiders to underserved communities).Insight into Gina’s collaboration with the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.Ways that Hilloween leverages Mitchell County’s strong cultural heritage.What you can expect from the 2023 edition of Hilloween!Why Gina refers to this year’s event as the “Bringing Dale McCurry Home Tour.”Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Gian Phillips on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-phillips-a848a616/Hilloween – https://www.hilloweennc.org/University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) – https://www.uncsa.edu/Samuel L. Phillips Family Foundation – https://www.wellsfargo.com/private-foundations/phillips-family-foundation/Artsville — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/Artsville Podcast — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/tag/podcast/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton — http://www.tailsofwhimsy.com/Crewest Studio — https://creweststudio.com/Sand Hill Artists Collective (SHAC) — https://sandhillartists.com/

How did Asheville become Artsville? The magic is in our partnerships! Together with our collaborators, we’re able to promote the work of emerging and established artists from our respective regions to an ever-growing audience. Today’s guest is one of those collaborators and someone who is deeply committed to helping artists build their brands and share their stories with other artists and art lovers across the world. In this episode, Artsville Founder and Director Louise Glickman steps into the host’s seat and turns the mic on our regular host, Artsville Producer, and the Founder of Crewest Studio and Not Real Art, Scott “Sourdough” Power! Tune in today to learn more about Scott’s vision for the art world, the incredible multimedia projects that he’s involved in creating, and how he strives to “spread the good news” for artists and craftspeople in Artsville and beyond, plus so much more.Key Points From This Episode:Scott’s vision to build a success-driven community of artists and art lovers.Crewest Studio, Not Real Art, and the podcasts, videos, events, and publications they create.How Scott funds all of these incredible ventures (and a sneak peek of Arterial.)A look at Art House, an upcoming “home improvement show with an artsy spin!”What you can expect from Not Real Art, Crewest, and Artsville in 2024 and beyond.Scott flips the script and asks Louise a question about podcasting.How you can connect with Scott and support everything he is doing for artists.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Scott “Sourdough” Power on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/sourdoughpower/Not Real Art — https://notrealart.com/Not Real Art on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/notrealartworld/Crewest Studio — https://creweststudio.com/The Conduit Podcast — https://www.theconduitmusicpodcast.com/The Laugh Gallery Podcast — https://www.laugh-gallery.com/Chevalier — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12758486/BLISS — https://www.biltmorelakeartists.com/Artsville — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/Artsville Podcast — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/tag/podcast/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton — http://www.tailsofwhimsy.com/Sand Hill Artists Collective (SHAC) — https://sandhillartists.com/

Today’s episode is many months in the making. We are very excited because this is the culmination of a series of features we have written about Jim McDowell and his Face Jug: A story about how it has traveled throughout our audience and how Susan and Michael Hershield made it possible to give it to the Nasher Collection. We heard from the collectors, the artists, and the museum. We are trying to do more work to explain to people how to buy art, what to look for, and what a museum looks for when they collect a piece. The conversation with our guest today was a unique opportunity to launch into a series on how to buy art. Marshall N. Price is the Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. He graduated from Western Maryland College and received a Master’s degree in Art History from Penn State. He also received a Ph.D. in Art History from the City University of New York. We hear from Marshall about his journey to becoming the Chief Curator at Nasher and his experience in the position. He talks about the challenges he faced and his thoughts on the benefits of being embedded in an academic community. He also talks about the collection, programs and the greatest things about the Nasher Museum. We then hear about the incredible story of Jim McDowell’s Face Jug acquisition and the history behind the Red Tails jug. You do not want to miss out on this amazing episode. So start listening now! Key Points From This Episode:Recapping the journey of Jim McDowell’s new Face Jug to the Nasher MuseumA dream job: how Marshall got there and when he realized art would become his life.The experience of being the Chief Curator at Nasher and the pressures it includes.Marshall talks about the challenges he faced as he walked into the curator role.His thoughts on the benefits of being embedded in an academic community.More about the different programs running at Nasher (at any given time).Marshall talks about the collection at Nasher and the focus of the institution.How Nasher is working to continue to incorporate artists of Color in their collection.One of the great things about Nasher Museum. Marshall’s story of Jim McDowell’s Face Jug acquisition: The Red Tails as homage to the Tuskegee Army Airfield. How people can enjoy Jim’s work at the Nasher.Marshall’s thoughts on what this acquisition will mean for Jim’s career.Plans surrounding youth programming at Nasher and how they plan to educate the young. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Marshall N. Price Ph.D. on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/mnormanprice/ Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University — https://nasher.duke.edu/ Jim McDowell — https://blackpotter.com/ From Concept to Collection: How Jim McDowell’s New Face Jug Made It to the Nasher Museum Collection [Part I] — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/jim-mcdowell-nasher-museum/ From Concept to Collection: How Jim McDowell’s New Face Jug Made It to The Nasher Museum Collection [Part II] — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/jim-mcdowell-nasher-museum-part-two/From Concept to Collection: How Jim McDowell’s New Face Jug Made It to the Nasher Museum Collection [Part III] —

In this episode of the Artsville Podcast, we introduce you to two of the remarkable painters taking part in the inaugural Biltmore Lake’s Imaginative Studio Stroll (BLISS), taking place on May 6th, 2023. Dynamic mother-daughter duo Bee Sieburg and Molly Courcelle are each incredible artists in their own right. From an early age, Bee encouraged Molly to view the world with an artist’s eye, and they spent hours drawing, painting, and visiting museums together. Bee is a beloved oil painter known for her rich depictions of landscapes, interiors, and animals (cows in particular) in her signature loose style. While Molly inherited her mother’s expressive flair, she went on to develop her own unique visual language, creating beautifully layered abstract oil paintings inspired by scripture. Join us today as we delve deeper into each of their practices and find out how their work is reflective of their distinct personalities. Tuning in, you’ll hear the amazing story of Molly’s adoption and why Molly and Bee were meant to find one another. We also discuss how BLISS will be mutually beneficial for artists and visitors, what you can expect to see when you visit Molly’s house during the event, and how BLISS is bringing economic development and cultural programming to Candler, plus so much more. As our cohost-in-crime Louise Glickman says, this interview provides listeners with an opportunity to “see where creativity comes from,” so be sure not to miss it!Key Points From This Episode:The story of how Molly’s birth mother requested that she be adopted by an artistic family.Ways that Bee and Molly’s artworks reflect their different personalities.Opportunities that BLISS provides for people to see art in a new way.Molly explains why BLISS is as beneficial for the artists as it is for visitors.What you can expect from Bee and Molly when they open their homes to BLISS visitors.How our guests will cater to different budgets with artworks at various price points.Where you can find Bee and Molly at WEDGE Studios in the River Arts District.Funny anecdotes that illustrate why some of Bee’s friends call her Pig-Pen!Important ways that BLISS is driving economic development in Candler.Insight into OpenDoors Asheville, a non-profit organization that Bee and Molly support.Things that our guests are most grateful for, including family and creativity.Where Bee’s talent for floral design and her love for cows come from.What makes Asheville Artsville, according to Bee and Molly.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Biltmore Lake’s Imaginative Studio Stroll (BLISS) — https://www.biltmorelakeartists.com/Bee Sieburg — https://www.biltmorelakeartists.com/artists/bee-sieburgBee Sieburg Website — https://www.beesieburg.com/Molly Courcelle — https://www.biltmorelakeartists.com/artists/molly-courcelleMolly Courcelle Website — https://www.mollycourcelle.com/WEDGE Studios — https://wedgestudioartists.com/OpenDoors — https://opendoorsasheville.org/Art Affair —

If you’re listening to this podcast, you already know that art brings beauty and joy into our lives, but it can also bring us closer as we learn about it together and share experiences. This is the objective that Sherry Masters had in mind when she created Art Connections, an Asheville-based business designed to bring art enthusiasts and artists together through art consultation and studio tours. Sherry founded Art Connections in 2013 to act as a bridge between those who are interested in art and the many highly-skilled artists in Asheville who create paintings, textile art, glassware, ceramics, sculptures, and more. As a native Ashevillan, Sherry intimately understands the phenomenal impact of these cultural art practices, and her 30 years of experience have allowed her to gain the trust of not only the local creative community but the visitors it attracts too. Tuning in today, you’ll learn more about the unique tours that Sherry organizes and why she believes it’s important to humanize the arts by facilitating these types of exchanges. She also shares some local recommendations, sheds light on her personal relationship with the arts, and more! Whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned collector, Sherry can help you make informed selections and transform your space by including original artwork. Be sure to tune in to find out how!Key Points From This Episode:Why you should seek Art Connections out next time you’re in Asheville.The inspiration behind Sherry’s decision to “be a bridge” between artists and art enthusiasts.Examples of some of the personalized art tour experiences that Sherry curates.Reflecting on the importance of humanizing and demystifying the arts.Insight into the art consultation and advisory services that Sherry provides.How Sherry navigates the unique needs and budgets of different collectors.Recommended artists if you are looking to purchase a piece of glass art.Where Sherry’s love for art and making things originated.The fundamental influence of institutions like the Penland School of Craft.A look at Sherry’s personal art practice, which is primarily concerned with textiles.The creativity that is required to make these “art connections” between people.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Sherry Masters on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-masters-b791bb79/Sherry Masters on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/arttoursasheville/Art Connections — https://www.arttoursasheville.com/Mark Peiser — https://markpeiser.com/John Littleton and Kate Vogel — https://www.littletonvogel.com/Michael Sherrill — https://www.michaelsherrill.com/Penland School of Craft — https://penland.org/Artsville Podcast — https://artsville.captivate.fm/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton —...

Art and culture are essential elements that keep communities healthy, vibrant, and connected. Artsville founder Louise Glickman even thinks of art as the glue that holds communities together. With this in mind, artists in Biltmore Lake, Candler, NC, have partnered with Artsville to produce a studio tour with a twist! Introducing BLISS, the first-ever Biltmore Lake’s Imaginative Studio Stroll, where 25 artists plus several guest artists will show and sell their art from their Biltmore Lake homes on Saturday, May 6th, 2023. In today’s episode of the Artsville Podcast, co-hosts Louise and Scott “Sourdough” Power are joined by fellow art enthusiast and BLISS volunteer team member, Elaine Scherer, to talk about the important role this world-class event plays in positioning Candler as a creative outpost and how it will broaden, strengthen, and acknowledge creative networks within the surrounding communities. To learn more about how you can join Biltmore Lake’s artists for their first annual studio tour, what you can expect to see on the day, and what you can do to contribute, be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Louise offers some context for this “fun, different, and imaginative” event.How the action-oriented Elaine became involved in BLISS.Why art is fundamental for any well-connected community, functioning like a glue.A look at what art means to Elaine as a registered nurse.Visitor attractions and the artists that are participating in BLISS.What makes BLISS a studio tour with a twist (and how we came up with the name).The spirit of service that drives Elaine’s unique style of leadership.Louise explains what attracts people to Biltmore Lake, including professional talent.How you can contribute to BLISS and become one of our volunteers.Some of the small and local businesses that are getting involved in the event.Why BLISS is a family-friendly event and an excellent learning opportunity for kids.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:BLISS: Biltmore Lake's Imaginative Studio Stroll — https://www.biltmorelakeartists.com/BLISS on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/BLArtStroll/Elaine Scherer on Twitter — https://twitter.com/AVLRNElaine Scherer Email — emscherer828@gmail.comKatrina Chenevert Gallery — https://www.katrinachenevertgallery.com/Fractured Atlas — https://www.fracturedatlas.org/Artsville — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/Artsville Podcast — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/tag/podcast/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton — http://www.tailsofwhimsy.com/Crewest Studio —

If you’re listening to this podcast, you already know that there are so many reasons that art is important. It not only beautifies our surroundings, but it is a reflection of the world around us. For Mary Farmer, an artist with a long history as a women’s rights and social justice activist, art is liberation from the stresses of the world. Mary is a renowned encaustic painter based in Asheville, whose paintings create a portal into a timeless and transcendent state of being. It’s easy to get lost in Mary’s tranquil landscapes and travel to a more peaceful place in your mind, which is exactly what she hopes to achieve. At the center of her practice lies a much more quiet activism, a call to take some much-needed refuge from the onslaught of negativity that surrounds us. Referring to some of her more abstract landscape paintings as ‘soft landings’, Mary’s work is created to help you slow down and take time to decompress. Ultimately, rest is a radical and intentional act of resistance in a world that has no pause button. By looking after our physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing, we can gather the energy we need to keep fighting for the causes we believe in. So, sit back, relax, and let Mary Farmer take you on a journey of creative self-care!Key Points From This Episode:The quiet activism at the heart of Mary’s practice.Ways that Artsville offers healing, friendship, and comfort.How art provides opportunities for deeper connection.The ‘mental vacation’ that art offers us in a post-COVID world.Important causes that Mary and Louise have advocated for together.Insight into Mary’s decision to reincorporate activism into her artwork.When Mary’s commitment to women’s rights began.Using art to translate the spiritual connection with nature that one feels in Asheville.Where Mary gets the energy to keep fighting for the causes she believes in.The importance of speaking loudly and clearly about social justice through art.An understanding of Mary’s focus on comfort, shelter, and beauty.Why we have to make time for rest and self-care in today’s world.Attracting attention to the arts as a form of activism.Mary’s approach to marketing as a “mutual exchange of pleasure.”A look at the global community of International Encaustic Artists.Nurturing a mass market for original art to give artists a better livelihood.The responsibility that artists have to put their work out there.Bringing art, education, and activism under one umbrella with Artsville.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Mary Farmer — https://www.maryfarmer.com/Mary Farmer on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/MaryFarmerArtist/Ep. 12: Looking at the World Differently with Kenn Kotara — https://www.artsvilleusa.com/looking-at-the-world-differently-with-kenn-kotara/International Encaustic Artists — https://www.international-encaustic-artists.org/Thrive Asheville — https://www.thriveavl.org/Artsville Podcast — https://artsville.captivate.fm/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman —

Textile-based products are often an underappreciated art form that does not receive the recognition it deserves and leaves many artists struggling to earn a living. What is needed is an organization that facilitates the demand for textile-based art forms and helps artists monetize their products. This is the perspective of today’s guest, Judi Jetson, who has been helping drive the recognition and economic development of textile-based local artists. Judi has a deep passion for textiles and regards herself as a fiber activist known for her love of building communities. Judi combines her experience as a business developer with her adoration for textiles to help grow the industry she cherishes so dearly. For the last 10 years, she has been leading Local Cloth, a nonprofit organization helping develop the fiber economy in North Carolina. Local Cloth achieves this through education, inclusive programming, and creating services by leveraging local farmers, artists, makers, and designers. In our conversation, we learn about the vital work that Local Cloth is doing, the challenges the industry faces, and the future vision for the organization. She also provides insight into the role of supply and demand within the textile industry, how the approach to textiles can help other art forms, and why some artists leave the industry. She also shares her approach to building relationships between artists and farmers, and reasons why this is the foundation of her vision. Tune in to learn about the textile industry and why it deserves to be recognized, with Judi Jetson!Key Points From This Episode:Background about Judi and how she enables artists. The motivation behind Local Cloth and what it aims to achieve.How Judi’s experience in economic development informed her vision.Why she chose textiles as her art medium and focus of her work.She explains the relationship between supply and demand concerning art.Ways in which Judi is helping to increase the demand for textile-based art.Outline of how her approach to textiles can be applied to other art forms.What her long-term plans are for Local Cloth and her overall vision.Hear about an exciting project she has recently started.The benefits of developing local and handmade textile-based art.Discover the role of farmers in helping drive textile-based products.Why handmade and local products are appealing to people.Judi explains her pricing strategy for products from local artists.We discuss the challenges regarding pricing in the current market.An explanation of why some artists decide to leave the industry.She shares her plans to scale the production of her current vision. Learn about the resources Judi leverages to help grow Local Cloth.Whether she specifically mentions Asheville when marketing her products.Judi shares her opinion on the textile business in North Carolina. What she loves most about Asheville and why she chooses to live there.Learn about the moment she fell in love with textiles. The challenges of using platforms like Esty for textile-based products. Details about an upcoming show that Judi has planned with Artsville. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Judi Jetson on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/judijetson/Judi Jetson on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/judi1jetson/Local Cloth — https://localcloth.org/Local Cloth on Facebook —

Art collector and entrepreneur Merrily Orsini moved to Asheville so she could be within walking distance of her four grandchildren. The fact that she and her husband have a glass art collection of over 200 pieces has necessitated some well-thought out house designing and strict enforcement of the “don’t touch the art!” rule (although, she sometimes breaks this rule herself). In today’s episode, Merrily shares the story of the artwork that brought her and her husband together, some of her favorite glass artists, how the glass art industry has changed during this century, and how she hopes to change the world for the better through her Art2025 project. If you’re interested in becoming a glass art collector, Merrily also has some valuable advice for getting started! Key Points From This Episode:Merrily explains what drew her to Asheville.The value that glass art brings to Merrily’s life.What the Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass is, and the role that Merrily has played in the organization over many years.How art brought Merrily and her husband together.The size of Merrily and her husband’s art collection.Advice for anyone interested in becoming an art collector.Different types of glass art that exist.Some of Merrily’s favorite glass artists.Where Merrily’s love of glass art began.Merrily’s involvement with the James Renwick Alliance.How the glass art world is changing and the intention behind the Art2025 project.The piece of glass art that Merrily would love to acquire (and why she can’t).Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Merrily Orsini Website — https://merrilyorsini.com/ Merrily Orsini on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/merrilyorsini/ Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass — https://contempglass.org/ Blue Spiral 1 — https://bluespiral1.com/ Blown Away — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9908860/ Karen Lamont — https://www.karenlamonte.com/ Baldwin Guggisberg — https://www.baldwinguggisberg.com/ Lino Tagliapietra — https://linotagliapietra.com/ James Renwick Alliance — https://www.jra.org/ Penland School of Craft — https://penland.org/ Hoss Haley — https://www.hosshaley.com/ Artsville Podcast — https://artsville.captivate.fm/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton — http://www.tailsofwhimsy.com/Crewest Studio —

Rapid growth has its benefits, but it can also have major downfalls. Kate Pett, the Executive Director of Thrive Asheville, joins us today to explain how her organization is helping her beloved community confront the latter. The lack of high paying jobs, low levels of social mobility, and increasing gentrification in Asheville are causing a decline in the diversity that is part of what makes this place so special. During this episode, Kate explains how Thrive is addressing the interlinked issues of affordable housing and sustainable tourism in order to preserve the arts-and-culture wonder that is Asheville. Complex problems like these require a lot of thoughtfulness to solve, and Kate’s long-term approach to community building through improving communication amongst all sectors is one that cities across the world can benefit from! Tune in today to learn more.Key Points From This Episode:Major problems that artists in cities across the United States are currently facing.Comparing Asheville 20 years ago to Asheville today. Kate explains the mission of her organization, Thrive Asheville.The importance of working across sectors in order to achieve community wide goals. How Kate’s experience of working in the Peace Corps influenced the work she does today.Thrive’s approach to addressing the affordable housing issues in Asheville. Various elements of the affordable housing provision that Thrive focuses on.The role that Thrive plays in enhancing sustainable tourism. Thrive’s biggest challenge right now. An overview of the year-long conversation that Thrive convened. A new perspective on tourism. The three elements that make Asheville a stand-out city!Kate’s thoughts on how tourism money coming into Asheville should be redirected.A run-through of a typical working day in the life of Kate Pett.Some of the people who are helping to bring Thrive’s mission to life. A look at Thrive’s origin story.The complexity of tourism in Asheville, and how Thrive makes it work for city residents.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Thrive Asheville — https://www.thriveavl.org/ Kate Pett on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-pett-7b82aa7/ Artsville Podcast — https://artsville.captivate.fm/Scott “Sourdough” Power — https://www.notarealartist.com/Louise Glickman — https://www.louiseglickman.com/Daryl Slaton — http://www.tailsofwhimsy.com/Crewest Studio — https://creweststudio.com/Sand Hill Artists Collective (SHAC) — https://sandhillartists.com/

Today, we welcome ceramic artist, Jim McDowell, to the Artsville Podcast! Jim, known to many as the Black Potter, is a ceramicist based in Weaverville, North Carolina, who specializes in stoneware face jugs, a type of vessel that bears the likeness of the human face. Through his work, he honors the origins of these culturally rich vessels and reflects on the experience of being Black in America, in order to call out the racism and injustice endemic to this country. As you’ll discover in this episode, Jim believes that it is important to uncover the histories we don’t want to hear about, and retrieve the knowledge and skills that have been buried by centuries of oppression in order to move forward and make positive progress. This personal excavation and vulnerability is central to his work, which embodies the principles of ‘sankofa’, a Ghanaian word that means “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.” Tuning in, you’ll learn how Jim honors his ancestors through his vessels and gain some insight into the history of Black potters. Jim also offers a glimpse into his process and shares some poignant words of wisdom for artists, plus so much more! You won’t want to miss today’s powerful conversation with the Black Potter, the one and only Jim McDowell!Key Points From This Episode:Jim speaks to the spiritual nature of his work and how his face jugs honor his ancestors.The significance of the Ghanaian word, ‘sankofa’, and bringing forth knowledge and skills from the past in order to move forward.Making the distinction between folk potters and Jim’s work as an artist.What sparked his passion for throwing clay, which he says he has been drawn to all his life.Understanding the practical differences between an electric kiln and a wood-fired one.The wealth of knowledge that our guest has accumulated over his 40 years of experience.Insight into the history of Black potters like David Drake, who Jim sees as a personal hero.How he ensures this spiritual tradition is kept alive through storytelling.Where he garners inspiration for his face jugs and the words he inscribes on them.Honoring Jim’s mother and father, who instilled in him a strong work ethic and tenacity.How he draws inspiration and his entrepreneurial spirit from his grandparents.Why Jim says that his kiln is a testament not only to his parents but his ancestors too.A glimpse into what it feels like for our guest to receive recognition for his face jugs.The community he is building in Weaverville based on the principles of sankofa.Jim takes us through the process of creating one of his face jugs, from start to finish.Hear the story of how he came to call himself the Black Potter.How Jim channels his anger and acts of resistance into his artworks.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Jim McDowell — https://blackpotter.com/Jim McDowell on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/TheBlackPotter/David Drake: ‘The Enslaved Artist Whose Pottery Was an Act of Resistance’ — https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/17/arts/design/-enslaved-potter-david-drake-museum.htmlRoots — https://www.amazon.com/Roots-American-Family-Alex-Haley/dp/030682485XArtsville Podcast —

Today’s guest on the Artsville Podcast is the one and only Kenn Kotara, a contemporary mixed-media abstract artist based in Asheville, North Carolina. Kenn’s practice has been shaped by his lifelong fascination with architecture, philosophy, and literature, and he masterfully expresses himself on canvas, paper, and Mylar, as well as braille, Polaroids, and site-specific installations that evoke a powerful emotional response from those who view them. In this episode, Kenn offers some insight into the evolution of his practice as he shifted from representational to abstract work and we discuss the impact that the ‘nurturing environment’ of Asheville has had on him as an artist. We dive into his work with braille and Kenn emphasizes the empathy he believes he has gained from it, as well as what it has taught him about being present and mindful in the moment. Ultimately, Kenn has devoted his career to looking at the world differently and embracing a myriad of inspirations, and his remarkable braille pieces reveal the thoughtful, multidimensional side of his practice. He also has a strong focus on education and he speaks to the power of art for bridging divides in a world where so many seek to widen them. If you’re looking for a dose of inspiration and, perhaps, a different perspective on life (and art), this is the episode for you! We hope you’ll join us.For our full show notes, please visit: https://www.artsvilleusa.com/looking-at-the-world-differently-with-kenn-kotara/Key Points From This Episode:Kenn’s upbringing, his French Cajun heritage, and the Polish origins of his name, Kotara.The story of what brought Kenn to Asheville more than 20 years ago.What he loves about living and working in the ‘nurturing environment’ of Asheville.The evolution of his work, from representational to abstract, and the impact Asheville has had.Understanding the influence of architecture, graphic design, and technology on his work.How Kenn cultivates discipline as an artist and navigates what he calls the chaos of creation.A glimpse into Kenn’s work with braille and the perspective he says it gave him on perfection.The relationships he has built within the visually impaired community as a result.What working with braille taught him about truly being present in the moment.Insight into the process of writing in braille and the tools and methodologies that he uses.One of the major literary influences on Kenn’s work: Henry David Thoreau’s Walden.Reflecting on the significance of his braille work for those who aren’t visually impaired.The power of art to bridge gaps rather than create them, like so many politicians seek to do.How Kenn’s site-specific installations encourage conversation and facilitate education.Find out how and why Kenn came to be so articulate about his artwork.Why Kenn is so devoted to his work in education, even as he formally retires from teaching.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Kenn Kotara on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenn-kotara-1a74274/Kenn Kotara on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/kennkotara/Kenn Kotara on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/kenn.kotaraKotara Studio — https://www.kotarastudio.com/Walden —

Creating spaces for art to thrive is becoming more and more important as the world goes digital. Marquee is one such space in Asheville that was borne of the vision of lighting designer, antique dealer, entrepreneur, and real estate developer, Robert Nicholas. In this episode, we find out all about how the grand exhibition space that is Marquee came to be, the spirit it represents, how it works in terms of curation and transaction, and so much more! Robert shares his love for seeking value in things others would discard, as well as his excitement for discovering new styles and techniques. We learn about the magnetism of antiques, the Artist Support Pledge, and the bright future ahead for the magnificent Marquee! Tune in to find out more about the institution that is sure to become one of Asheville’s major sightseeing destinations.For our full show notes, please visit: https://www.artsvilleusa.com/robert-nicholas/Key Points From This Episode:The wonderful new Marquee development in Asheville, founded by Robert Nicholas.What sparked his vision for Marquee and the process of turning it into what it is today!The challenges of Robert’s undertaking and how Covid spurred him on.What his studio and gallery, Splurge, specializes in and how it began.Robert’s curation process for Marquee.The size of the space and how many exhibitors (“cast members”) are currently exhibiting.How to make purchases at the Marquee.Robert’s journey from being a youth pastor to becoming a real estate developer and an antique dealer.The value in the discarded.The philosophy behind the eclectic mix of artists, artisans, and aesthetics at Marquee.What inspired the name, “Marquee” and the spirit Robert wanted the space to represent.How much space Splurge has in the Marquee.How the Artist Support Pledge kept Robert creative during the lockdowns.Robert’s vision for the future of Marquee.Robert explains the magnetism of antiques.What gave him the idea for Uncommon Market in Asheville.Why he encourages originals over prints at Marquee.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Splurge Design — http://www.splurgedesign.com/Splurge by Robert Nicholas on Instagram — @splurgedesignSplurge by Robert Nicholas on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/splurgedesign/Splurge by Robert Nicholas on Twitter — https://twitter.com/splurgedesignMarquee — https://marqueeasheville.com/The Greatest Showman — https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1485796/Water For Elephants — https://www.amazon.com/Water-Elephants-Novel-Sara-Gruen/dp/0340962720Artist Support Pledge — https://artistsupportpledge.com/Uncommon Market — https://uncommonmarketasheville.com/Artsville Podcast — https://artsville.captivate.fm/Scott

Most artists know their calling from a young age and enter into the creative world in early adulthood with little to no savings. This was not the case with one of the legends of the art world, Viola Spells. Viola was working as a librarian and investing in properties when she attended her daughter's parent evening where she fell in love with the idea of creating jewelry. Join us today as we hear how she was forced to put her passion on the backburner while trying to raise a family, and how she moved into the creative world full-time in her 60s! As an African American woman in the segregated South, Viola's experiences growing up in the 1950s shaped who she is today. She has returned to her childhood home of Asheville where she runs her Pink Dog Studio, and we hear all about her creative process, where she learned to make jewelry, and her advice to young artists. For all this, and so much more, tune in today!For our full show notes, please visit: https://www.artsvilleusa.com/finding-your-calling/Key Points From This Episode:Why the team is so inspired by Viola and her road to success!What Viola wants people to know about her work: the lightness and the tactility. Viola’s family history and what she learned from her parents and her grandparents.How growing up in Asheville in the 1950s influenced Viola’s network and perceptions about race and society. Viola’s experience as a librarian, and moving from a small town to a big city. Why art took a back seat when Viola was working as a librarian. Viola’s lightbulb moment: when she realized making jewelry was her calling. How Viola became interested in the concept of the line.The difference between knitting and crocheting, and how practice made perfect. Viola's process: inspirational vs sketching, and her color palette. Teaching kids to make art and how Viola brings out their artistic side. Her work schedule, from night owl to preparing for success!The Chitchat fashion show, and approaching a fashion event with an open (or a librarian’s) mind. Viola’s experience coming back home to Asheville, and making her move into entrepreneurship with Pink Dog. The advice she would give to other artists: you have to have plans in place and manage both time and money. The changes in the "Segregated South" from the 1950s to the present day, and how Viola coped with these. What the artistic community is like in Asheville, and how it’s still segregated. Viola's suggestions for young Black artists to break into the community and build a platform. Where you can find out more about Viola Spells’ work!Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Viola Spells on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/viola-spellsZenobia Studio on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/zenobiastudioPink Dog Creative — https://www.pinkdog-creative.com/Textile Techniques in Metal: For Jewelers, Textile Artists & Sculptors — https://www.amazon.com/Textile-Techniques-Metal-Jewelers-SculptorsGrind — https://grindavl.club/Marquee —