Metal artist Ralph Berger (Photo by Bradly Schwartz)
WNC Open Studios Offers Easy Access to Artists
By Sue Wasserman
Like countless long-time residents, Bradly Schwartz knows the Western North Carolina Mountains will soon be buzzing with people from around the country in search of peak fall colors. The retired architect-turned painter believes color will reach new heights this year thanks to his launch of the WNC Open Studios event.
The self-guided tour October 1–16 features 40 artists in 30 studios scattered across Buncombe, Transylvania and Polk counties. A smart-phone friendly website offers an event guide and real-time studio directions.
“Most artist studio events take place over a weekend,” Schwartz says. “The 16-day duration of this unique event allows visitors to explore the artist’s talents in depth, while visiting unfamiliar towns and scenic countryside. Our artists love to share not only their work, but also their passion and the experiences that have shaped them. That time with them is an integral part of being able to understand and appreciate their art.”
Schwartz believes the diverse selection of artists—who work in mediums such as ceramics, mosaics, furniture design, glass, metal, textile and photography—will have a wide appeal. “I’m excited to be participating in this event,” says Barnardsville ceramic artist Cathy Gerson, who specializes in architectural and handcrafted tile installations. “My studio is in my home, a converted t-shirt factory on a quiet creek. Just being here tends to give people inspiration.”
Rutherfordton metal artist Ralph Berger enjoys waxing eloquent about his sawmill blade-inspired sculptures. “One of the things I love about this event is the possibility that more people will become aware of just how much this region has to offer artistically.”
Also included are mosaic artist Lee Ann Petropoulous (Mars Hill), potter Matt Jones (Leicester), painter Ray Byram (Pisgah Forest) and mixed media artist Cathryn Cooper (Lake Toxaway). Learn about all the artists on the event website, wncopenstudios.com.
