This year, post-Helene and with slashes to arts funding as well as overall economic uncertainties, has been one of hardship for many, including our artists. When I say artists, I include all who create, who interpret, who share their imagination and talents with others. This holiday season, if you’re giving gifts to others, consider our many galleries, art markets and independent studios for tangible gifts. And don’t forget experiences: tickets to concerts, plays, dance performances. How about books by local authors or albums by area musicians? There are so many ways to bring a little creativity to your holiday shopping while, at the same time, supporting our local recovering economies.
Gina Malone, Editor
In this issue, we share many ideas, but be on the lookout throughout the month for other ways to share the love with your Western North Carolina neighbors. The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area/Blue Ridge Craft Trails Winter Market is a great place to start. This digital gift guide introduces regional crafters in many mediums. Mica Gallery, in Bakersville, will hold its Holiday Open House on December 12. Gallery artists there share some of their own philosophies about gift giving. Stops at American Folk Art & Framing, the Lucy Clark Studio and Gallery, Salmagundi Gallery, the Asheville Gallery of Art, Grovewood Gallery and the Village Artist Market will yield a wealth of fine art and craft created right here at home. You’ll become everyone’s favorite gift giver.
For experiences, how about the Blue Ridge Orchestra’s BRO Revels or the Wortham Center’s A Swannanoa Solstice, both long-running traditions in December.
At delighted gift shop, find adorable ornaments created by local artists. Or, perhaps, you want to put your own hand to creating gifts for others, with a class on traditional crafting.
This year, think about stepping off the conveyor belt of same old same old to make your holidays a wholly WNC experience—from presents to feasting to entertainment. And offer yourself the gifts of reflection and hope. As May Sarton said: “A holiday gives one a chance to look backward and forward, to reset oneself by an inner compass.”
May your holidays be filled with light and love,
