Gallery Mélange. Photo by Samuel Caleb Johnson
The Downtown Asheville Gallery Walk, organized by Gallery Mélange, continues in September and October, with more than 15 local galleries participating. The event, featuring special exhibitions, open galleries and artist meet-and-greets, happens on the first Friday of each month, with the next occurring on September 5 from 5–8 p.m.
“It is critical for tourists to know that there are artists downtown as well,” says Elliott From, owner of Artbeat Gallery & Lounge. “People can come in and watch me paint while looking at my art. Downtown is a great place not only for the food and local shops, but also the galleries.”
During art walks and regularly on Saturdays, Artbeat features live music by local musicians. From also has beer and wine available for purchase. He strives to create a comfortable vibe in his gallery. “Since I’m new to the scene in downtown, I’m excited for the locals and tourists to know that I’m downtown and that they can acquire original art from my gallery and at affordable pricing,” he says.
Although downtown was mostly spared physical damage from Hurricane Helene, the loss of power and water and the subsequent loss of tourism last fall was a blow to downtown businesses, according to Leslie Rowland of Gallery COR. “One of the reasons the downtown gallery owners collectively decided to start this art walk is to give locals and tourists a focused opportunity to support downtown businesses,” she says. “Our hope is that they will decide to shift their purchasing power away from big-box stores and online retailers and focus it on the rent-paying businesses that keep downtown alive and vibrant.” Gallery COR will feature new Asheville-based artists as well as new work by its resident artists.
“As an art town, it’s so important to make sure that we are offering an event that anyone can attend, that is held at a time of day that is easier for working folks to get to and that encourages people to visit galleries that might not be their ‘normal’ fare,” says Julia Mills, owner of American Folk Art & Framing (AFA). In October, the art walk will coincide with AFA’s opening reception for its fall show, Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil. “Whenever we have opening receptions, we have some dedicated folks that make it a point to attend, but we always see a few people who stumble upon the event as they’re out enjoying downtown,” Mills says. “Being able to invite someone new into the gallery and give them a brief adventure of discovery is such a treat.”
Downtown artists are grateful that visitors are returning and showing their support, says Rand Kramer of Gallery Mélange, but business has not yet returned to pre-storm levels. “It’s been inspiring to see the downtown art community come together,” he says, “united in celebrating the remarkable art and artists who define Asheville’s creative spirit.” In September, Gallery Mélange artists will be on hand to talk with visitors and, in October, resident artist Jeffrey Burroughs will host a special Wine & Shop event at the gallery. “Guests will have the rare opportunity to hear Jeffrey speak about his meticulous process—from sourcing exceptional gemstones from around the world to translating their natural beauty into his signature handcrafted designs,” Kramer says. “With a glass of wine in hand, attendees can browse his latest collection, ask questions and experience the artistry and intention behind each exquisite piece.”
Learn more about the event and participating galleries and studios at GalleryMelange.com.
