Dozens of the region’s finest artists will open their mountain studios to the (Clockwise from above) Artists, Cindy & Michael Ireland; Artist, Steven Forbes-de Soule; Artist, Maureen Hoxie public during the Weaverville Art Safari May 7–8. This weekend opportunity for art lovers is a great chance to interact with the artists and see firsthand the processes they use. A self-guided tour along the main streets and the back roads of Weaverville, Alexander, and Barnardsville will take you to the studios of more than 40 artists.

Along the way, you will see pottery, handmade glass, sculpture, jewelry, furniture, paintings, drawings, and fiber art. Select studios will be offering public demonstrations and door prizes. The artists’ studios will be open from 10–6 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.

A special preview party at Claxton Farms on Friday, May 6, kicks off the event and celebrates the Art Safari’s tenth anniversary. The fun begins at 7 p.m. and includes door prizes, heavy hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and a cash bar.

The highlight of the evening will be a silent auction featuring gallery-worthy works of art selected exclusively for the event. Tickets to the preview party are $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 Asheville-area art galleries, restaurants, and shops beginning in April. A downloadable brochure is also available at weavervilleartsafari.com.