The Historic Cotton Mill Studios, the two-story brick structure along Riverside Drive with an iconic blue heron mural, has re-opened after heavy damage from Hurricane Helene. The building has been carefully restored by owners Richard Patino and Jannette Montenegro. “The reopening of the Historic Asheville Cotton Mill Studios represents more than the restoration of a building, it reflects the resilience and creative spirit of Asheville’s River Arts District,” says Montenegro. “After Hurricane Helene, our goal wasn’t simply to rebuild but to create a stronger, more welcoming home for artists, makers and locally owned businesses. We’re incredibly proud of the talented artists we’ve brought together for this new chapter. Their creativity, craftsmanship and passion are breathing new life into the Cotton Mill, transforming it into a vibrant destination where art, culture and inspiration flourish.”
Today, you will find thoughtfully curated working fine art studios and galleries, art classes and a wellness space offering massage and chiropractic care. Guajiro Cuban Comfort Food, the brick-and-mortar iteration of the Cuban food truck, will open in the corner of the building later this fall. “Guajiro’s new restaurant will add another layer of energy to the Mill, creating a place where visitors can experience exceptional art, great food, live music and local culture all under one roof,” says Montenegro.
There are seven studios in the Cotton Mill, each with large original antique windows with views of The French Broad River. Visitors will find easy parking in the building’s dedicated complimentary lot, a newly installed deck and an ADA-accessible first floor with two galleries and the restaurant. A path around the right side of the deck brings you to the separate entrance of the Ochre Rose Gallery, an open working studio and gallery by founding artists Kelcey Loomer, Elizabeth Porritt Carrington and Amanda McLenon in the former Guitar Bar space.
“Upon entering our space, visitors notice the stunning natural light and gorgeous refinished pine floors,” says McLenon. “All of us paint with common threads of nature, wildlife, storytelling and luminous imagery. Our space encourages you to linger and engage with the art and the artists.”
Next door, Asheville Fine Art Gallery features more of McLenon’s bird paintings and the landscapes and variety of work in contemporary realism by Jonathan Bidwell. Up the main entrance stairs, visitors will find charcoal landscapes by Linsey Gray; colorful abstracts, loose landscapes and florals by Alison Press Art alongside Bleu Pansy Jewelry by Diane McEachen.
“If you are someone who plans ahead you can schedule a massage with Align Asheville or book an art class with ArtPlay at the end of the hall,” says McLenon. “ArtPlay shares what is agreed to be the most dreamy upstairs Cotton Mill space with Luxe House Photographic. The Cotton Mill is a unique destination with an accessible collection of offerings in a gorgeous historic building making this a really special place to visit.”
The current tenants are planning a variety of events on Saturday, September 12, for RAD Resilience and a special line-up of “Garden Party” events on October 10.
The Cotton Mill is located at 122 Riverside Drive, Asheville. Learn more at CottonMillAsheville.com.
