As we mark our country’s 250th birthday (or semiquincentennial for those unafraid of tongue twisters), the word freedom is ringing out everywhere. And you’ll find it in our pages as well since a free mind remains a prerequisite for creativity. The Asheville Gallery of Art’s July show titled Freedom to Play highlights the work of Gail S. Drozd who says she gives herself permission “to play, explore and create without boundaries.” This allowance of creative play time without rules and expectations is especially important to the developing minds of youngsters, says Sue Fazio, whose by-appointment gallery in Hendersonville donates 100 percent of proceeds from sales to the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County.
Gina Malone, Editor
Those long summer days of no school and the timelessness of family vacations likely ingrained in all of us a sense of the freedom to just be, at this time of year. A few other things are quintessentially of the season like tomato sandwiches and an abundance of gorgeous flowers. Our Cover Artist Elliott From was a new arrival in Asheville when Helene hit, but out of the darkness of that time, he began painting his bold, colorful Dazie series. “Asheville was destroyed, but new growth is happening,” he says, “and I wanted a subject matter of growth and happiness.”
In this, our first WNC Crafts issue of the year, we visit with some organizations that have reasons to celebrate. Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, Inc., in Cherokee, has been in existence for an astounding 80 years, and Dillsboro’s Dogwood Crafters for 50. Don’t miss the 79th Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands July 16–19 in Asheville.
In our beloved River Arts District, recovery continues. While you’re there for Second Saturday on July 11, stop in to welcome Kiitos Fine Art, the newest gallery in America’s #1 Best Arts District!
Enjoy these long summer days!
Gina Malone can be reached at gina@thelaurelofasheville.com
