Asheville – Mark your calendar for the Grand Opening of Coffee, Art, Music type Place (CAMP) on Saturday, April 26, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Located at 1 Kenilworth Knolls, Suite 1, CAMP is a wonderful new concept that combines a coffee shop and art gallery, offering a fun, entertaining experience with a meaningful purpose.
CAMP is a place to enjoy a great cup of coffee, purchase works from local artists, and listen to live music on select nights—all while supporting local artists and musicians in an eclectic setting. Although CAMP opened its doors for business last week, it is hosting a special grand opening event featuring music by Mary Kay & the Moonlighters, an opportunity to meet the artists, and delicious coffees, teas, and hot chocolate.
The Purpose
Danna and Gill León, the new proprietors of CAMP, are missionaries who have served in Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica. Due to health issues, the Leóns needed to return to the U.S. to be near doctors and their mission board here in North Carolina. Danna, who has always loved art, music, and working with youth, felt drawn to Asheville. She said, “I love everything about Asheville, and I was given this vision of a place that would serve coffee, champion local artists, and have live music. This vision’s purpose is to have an outreach that supports young adults, ages 16 to 26, who are also interested in art and music.” It has taken two years of fundraising, a gala event, speaking at local churches, and establishing the business as a 501c(3) charity to bring this idea to fruition.
“I want to be able to provide art supplies and a space for youth to work on their skills, practice their instruments, and even give them a chance to play at open mic nights,” said León. “I’d like to help them understand how to market themselves and get them off the streets trying to earn money.”
While the Leóns’ focus is on Christ, they want people to know that this is a neutral space for everyone. If people have questions, they will certainly answer them; however, this is a space where all are welcome and accepted as they are. Patrons have already expressed that they can feel the love in the space.
The Coffee Shop
After selecting from a menu of musically and seasonally themed lattes, seven types of teas, hot chocolate, or kids’ steamers (or basic or Americano coffee for purists), you can sip your chosen brew while chatting with friends at tables or in a relaxing parlor-like setting—all surrounded by the artwork of local artists.
The Gallery
The gallery features works from over 20 local artists and artisans, including well-known local artists and award-winning fine artists, as well as wire art, jewelry, and much more. According to León, some of these artists have been displaced after Helene. “I’m the only one in town who’s not charging the artists rent. Please come support these creative people. They’re hurting. A lot of them are suffering emotional traumas, and art is therapeutic.”
The Music
The first open mic night will be Friday, April 18, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a cost of $5 for a performance spot. Other live music will be scheduled in the future, so watch for announcements.
The Future
Coming soon will be baked goods from the new Butterpunk Bakery. There has also been talk of “craft and sip” or “paint and sip” events and classes by gallery artists.
León would like to bring in speakers as more young people come in to discuss topics like human trafficking, grooming of children, and drugs—educating the youth to keep them safe.