Free Studio Tours Showcase Regional Talent

Western North Carolina has long been heralded for its rich art scene. The New York Times, Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, and American Style Magazine have all awarded the region top honors for the vibrant community living in these foothills and valleys. On April 27-28, during the Weaverville Art Safari, some of the region’s most celebrated artists open their homes and studios to the public for a rare glimpse inside the creative process.

This unique self-guided tour is a wonderful opportunity to meet and talk with local artists featured in galleries across the region and nation. Learn about the process behind each piece and discover the passion and drive that keeps the creative process alive.

“One of the things that makes the Weaverville Art Safari so special is it’s a chance for the community to interact with acclaimed artists,” says Tom Hoxie, Chairman of the Weaverville Art Safari and designer of contemporary Asian tansu furniture. “We get to connect with fellow artists and art enthusiasts, and our guests get to see our most recent work before the general public.”

This year’s event includes 34 artists. On Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., their studios are open to the public for a special viewing of their latest collections. Art demonstrations and door prizes at select studios make this self-guided tour an exciting experience that’s perfect for the entire family.

“This event is tailored to all ages and interest,” says Steven Forbes-deSoule, one of the original Weaverville Art Safari members and a creator of raku vessels and sculpture. “Everyone from age nine to 99 can participate and discover new and wonderful ways of artistic expression.”

Based on their interests and artistic tastes, this self-guided event encourages guests to go at their own pace through the town and surrounding areas of Weaverville. Works of art showcased include handmade pottery, glass, sculpture, jewelry, furniture, paintings, drawings, fiber art, and more.

A special preview party at the Weaverville Town Hall kicks off the event on Friday, April 26. The fun starts at 7 p.m. and includes live music, door prizes, heavy hors d’oeuvres, 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. All event proceeds fund future Weaverville Art Safari events.

Weaverville Art Safari brochures containing maps and artist information are available at greater Asheville-area galleries, restaurants, and shops beginning in early April. Brochures will also be distributed from an Art Safari information booth located on Main Street in Weaverville during the show weekend. A downloadable brochure and full details about participating artists are also available at www.weavervilleartsafari.com.

About The Weaverville Art Safari

The Weaverville Art Safari is an event staged twice each year–the last full weekend in April and the first full weekend in November–by a group of Western North Carolina artists whose studios are located in and around the communities of Weaverville and Barnardsville, NC.

The first Weaverville Art Safari was organized in the spring of 2001 with the goal of attracting visitors to this vibrant art community on the northern outskirts of Asheville, NC. Since then thousands of people have returned over and over each spring and fall to enjoy the shopping opportunities and the ambience. Local B&Bs do a brisk business.

If You Go: Weaverville Art Safari, April 27-28. For more information on the and participating artists please visit www.weavervilleartsafari.com.