by Dennis Ray

Bright with crafts and fine art, Ariel Gallery, a fine-craft artist co-op gallery, offers a variety of mingling textures.

Fiber arts are on display alongside woodturning, jewelry, pottery, sculpture and glass. David Vrooman’s stunningly beautiful jewelry is on view alongside Janet Taylor’s incredible textiles. There is a wide array of styles and perspectives assembled by 12 different artists.

The concept of an artist-owned and operated fine craft gallery in downtown Asheville began with a working group of area craftspeople meeting in various peoples’ homes in 2000 and 2001. Borrowing its name from Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” Ariel Gallery opened for business in April, 2002 on Haywood Street before moving to its present location on Biltmore Avenue across from the Fine Arts Theatre in 2008. In a city full of fine craft galleries and a region brimming with artisans, Ariel Gallery is a standout. Owned and operated by the exhibiting artists themselves, this unique gallery is a showcase for original works of handmade jewelry, sculpture, glass, fiber, clay, mixed media, and woodwork.

“All of the artists are local,” says David Vrooman. “Every artist is part owner of Ariel Gallery and each artist is required to work so many days per month.” Because they are an artist-run gallery, visitors can look forward to the unique experience of meeting at least one of the gallery’s artists on any given day. Custom and commission works are available by most of their members.

Having the artists own part of the gallery insures everyone takes pride not only in their work but the goings on of the business. Vrooman explains that each artist also belongs to a committee, such as adverting and promotion etc.

“This is a wonderful group we have here right now,” he says. “Every piece of work (here in the store) is stunning and beautiful. And all of the artists are great people.”

This December Ariel is having a storewide 20% off sale. “It’s a great opportunity to get someone you love a wonderful hand-crafted present and save money,” Vrooman adds.

Ariel Gallery is located in the heart of downtown Asheville on Biltmore Avenue. It was founded by a collection of artists seeking a place to sell fine crafts downtown. Two of the original members still show their work at Ariel, Janet Taylor (textiles) and Jane Piser (porcelain).

Ariel Gallery
Contemporary Craft Cooperative
19 Biltmore Avenue, downtown Asheville Next door to the Mast General store.
Weekdays 11-5 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 11-6 p.m.
(828) 236-2660
www.arielcraftgallery.com