The working artists of NorthLight Studios, in the River Arts District (RAD), want locals and visitors alike to know that their studios are open and they’re all hard at work. “We have five painters with unique styles working in various mediums,” says Angela Alexander, who is currently at work on a bears/wildlife series. Her fellow NorthLight artists are Andy Buchanan, Nadine Charlsen, Nan Davis and Heidi Hoffer. The artists are assisted by four-legged greeters Asher, Ellie and Darwin. “We have over 350 artists represented in the RAD, and we need your support,” Alexander adds. “Come out and meet us and purchase directly from the artists.”
Anomalous Nimbus. Andy Buchanan, artist
Buchanan, whose current work “ranges from flora- and fauna-filled landscapes and realism to ethereal dreamscapes and mid-century modern-styled abstracts,” feels fortunate in having missed Hurricane Helene. He moved to the area afterwards, but says that he has witnessed the impact that the storm had, and is still having, on regional artists. “I think it’s important to keep spreading the word that the RAD is open and alive for business,” he says. “The energy alone in this city is worth the visit, but when you couple that with the gorgeous, nearby mountains, forests, waterfalls and a huge community of amazing small businesses, restaurants, bars, talented artists and musicians, it’s a no-brainer.”
A member of the Portrait Society of America and a signature member of the National Association of Women Artists, Hoffer works in charcoal from both arranged portrait sittings and historic or planned photos. She reminds everyone that the art market being held at Pinegate Renewables each Saturday will run through November and that Second Saturday RAD Studio Strolls are still being held, with this month’s on July 12, when NorthLight Studios will host Art in the Garden.
Henry. Angela Alexander, artist
“The RAD has one of the best governing boards of any artist community, and they continue to pull together and support their artists by securing market space for displaced artists and assisting through grants and aid for those needing financial help,” Hoffer says. “The board has been marketing fiercely, both regionally and nationally via sources like the TV show, Good Morning America. Most studios and galleries are open every day, with the destroyed ones being rebuilt or relocated, as we speak. Visiting our studios and watching us work has always been a highlight of any visit to the RAD.”
The artists of NorthLight offer original artwork as well as, in some cases, high-quality reproductions. “We like taking those empty spots on your walls and turning them into amazing conversation pieces to give the room or space that finished look,” says Buchanan. “We are open, and we encourage all the tourists, locals, art buyers and collectors to come back in droves and find again those pieces you never knew you needed.”
Visit NorthLight Studios Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to this pet-friendly building. More information as well as links to individual artists’ websites can be found at NorthLightStudiosAsheville.com.
