When fall arrives in Western North Carolina, the town of Weaverville, NC, showcases local color with the Weaverville Art Safari.

Held October 24-25, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this bi-annual event is a treasured tradition among locals and tourists alike.

Nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains, various studios open their doors for an exclusive look at the artistic process. “Creativity abounds in our area, and our artists love to show off what they do and how they do it,” says Cindy Ireland, 2015 Art Safari President.

A fresh break from the traditional art shows and studio strolls, this bi-annual event provides the unique opportunity to discover the inspiration behind each piece, meet acclaimed artists, and see the methods behind the final creation. A number of the exhibitors will give away door prizes and offer educational demonstrations for their visitors.

“I love seeing visitors from previous Art Safaris and also newbies to the area, who are experiencing the Safari for the first time,” says ceramic artist, Steven Forbes-deSoule, who will exhibit at the Ox Creek Community Center for the first time.

This year’s free event boasts 41 artists who specialize in handmade pottery, glass, photography, sculpture, jewelry, furniture, painting, drawing, fiber art, and more. Best of all, the structure of the event allows guests to explore the artist community at their own pace. Suggested routes are included in the tour map, but guests often pause along the way to admire fall color and experience the unique communities nestled outside of Asheville.

A special preview party and fundraiser at the Weaverville Town Hall kicks off the event on Friday evening, October 23, and is open to the public. The fun starts at 7 p.m. and includes live music, door prizes, hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, desserts, and more. The highlight of the evening is a silent auction featuring art works donated by each participating artist. Event tickets are only $10 at the door, with additional door prize tickets available for $5 each. Event proceeds fund future Weaverville Art Safari tours, and promote the arts and community in the Weaverville area. The goal is to expose locals and visitors alike to some of the most talented artists in the area.

Guests looking to plan their visit can pick up Weaverville Art Safari brochures containing maps and artist information at greater Asheville-area galleries, restaurants, and shops beginning in April. Brochures will also be distributed from an Art Safari information booth located on Main Street in Weaverville on October 24 and 25. A brochure with map and additional details is available at www.weavervilleartsafari.com.

The Weaverville Art Safari is staged twice each year—the first full weekend in May and the last full weekend in October—by a group of Western North Carolina artists whose studios are located in and around the communities of Weaverville and Barnardsville. The first Weaverville Art Safari was organized in the spring of 2001. Since then thousands of people have returned each spring and fall to enjoy the shopping opportunities and the ambience.

If You Go: Weaverville Art Safari, October 24-25, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. Preview party and fundraiser at Weaverville Town Hall on Friday, October 23 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. Full details and maps available at www.weavervilleartsafari.com