Francesco Lombardo, artist
Marshall Handmade Market Offers a Unique Holiday Shopping Experience
The resident artists of Marshall High Studios will hold the eighth Marshall Handmade Market (MHM) Saturday, November 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Blannahassett Island in Marshall. The popular free event will feature a wide and eclectic group of exhibitors showcasing the work of established local artists from Madison County and beyond.
“We are offering more of all the best things that have made our Handmade Market such a success in the past,” MHM coordinator, Frank Lombardo, says. “More artists will be showing this year than previous years, featuring a variety of mediums both downstairs and throughout our upstairs studios.”
Centered in the auditorium, the market takes place in the old high school built in 1926 on an island in the middle of the French Broad River. Saved from destruction, the historic brick and wood building was transformed into Marshall High Studios in 2007. The unique classrooms were turned into studios and the building now offers more than 30 spaces for working artists, craftspeople, designers, performers, musicians and herbalists.
“The 70 plus artists at our event ensure that there is something for everyone’s taste,” Lombardo says. “Anyone who appreciates a high quality of craftsmanship will find it in our woodworkers, jewelers, potters, painters and fiber artists, each of whom has been juried into our show.”
New for this year, hungry shoppers can enjoy two food trucks outside with glutenfree, vegan and meat lover options. There will also be sweet treats for sale and free coffee inside. The building has a spacious deck off the back where visitors can enjoy their meals and listen to the sounds of old time ballads played by local musician, David Hughes.
Lombardo recommends that first-time attendees allow themselves time to take in the breadth of craftsmanship offered at the event. “Come with high expectations, your loved one’s Christmas list—and your own for that matter— and immerse yourself in an event that features some of the best makers in Western North Carolina.”
For more information and a full list of participating artists visit marshallhandmade.com.
