Asheville – For 78 years, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands has spotlighted the incredible abilities of craftsmen in this area. Twice a year, in July and October, a large display of their works can be seen at Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville. Two floors are filled with exhibitors of all varieties. You will find jewelry, wood, clay, paper, leather, glass products, fiber products, apparel, pottery, and basketry—all on display, lovingly shaped and formed by talented artists. Many have studios and work in the Asheville area, while others come from surrounding states such as Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. The variety of items is astounding. This is an opportunity to buy directly from the artist, order custom pieces, and learn more about their art.
Over the weekend, there were demonstrations near the entrance by Ronnie McMahan showcasing his wood carving techniques and Noel Yovovich displaying intricately designed jewelry with a nature theme. Helen Gibson, a master carver and regular teacher at the John C. Campbell Folk School, was highlighted in the Heritage Booth. Having studied under Jack Hall, Helen is one of the few remaining instructors who carve and teach the celebrated Brasstown Nativity figures. Sounds of musicians playing their favorite regional tunes could be heard on the arena level. Here is a short review of a few of the many exhibitors at the Southern Highland Craft Fair this July.
Brenda Cameron exhibited vibrant bird paintings assembled on wet felted wool. Her use of rich color and texture enhances each painting. There was a handsome pileated woodpecker and a striking snow egret. Her works can be found in Brevard and Number 7 Arts.
Harry Hearne with his wife Julie showcased several Raku pottery pieces—including striking lamps. Raku is an ancient method of firing pottery with Japanese roots dating back to the 16th century. Raku pottery provides spontaneity and uniqueness not readily available through traditional stoneware or porcelain. Since 1990, he has been working out of his own Turning Point Clay Studio in Murphy, NC.
Brad Smith of Clink Glassworks focuses on creating high-quality artisan glasswork. Each piece is crafted in a small family-run studio in Asheville, NC. Every item is made with tools and equipment manufactured in the USA. From raw materials sourced in North Carolina to equipment built in-house or made domestically, his products are truly made in the USA.
Erich Orris of Fudo Forge exhibited strikingly beautiful handcrafted kitchen knives, outdoor knives, and cutting tools. He is a master blacksmith creating fine cutlery and many custom pieces in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. His customers range from professional chefs to outdoor enthusiasts to those who simply appreciate a fine blade made from steel with an exotic wood handle.
A number of craftsmen and artists displayed various types of jewelry, many handcrafted in silver with diverse designs. Lynne Fiorenza Jewelry showcased amazing one-of-a-kind artisan free-form peyote bead jewelry featuring semi-precious stones and pure silver and copper centerpieces. Peyote beading is one of the most versatile techniques and is one of Lynne’s favorites; it has been used since ancient times by artisans worldwide, from the Egyptians to Native Americans.
Nina Kawar presented handmade copper jewelry using a process called copper electroforming. This unique technique involves skillfully depositing copper layer by layer onto gemstones in an acid bath using electricity. The result is one-of-a-kind statement pieces of wearable art!
Susan Thornton of Thornton Metals, based in Tennessee, crafts exquisite one-of-a-kind necklaces, rings, earrings, and bracelets in gold and silver. Her forged bracelets artfully grace the wrist, while rings made of gold with diamonds or native stones enhance the hand. She exhibits at various art fairs throughout the region.
Thomas Irven is a studio wood artist who has been producing custom furniture and woodturnings since 1987. He creates unusual pieces such as eggplant boxes and acorns made from maple burl and walnut burl. He brings his many wood pieces to life using various techniques such as woodturning and wood stabilization.
Since 1930, the Southern Highland Craft Guild has championed high-quality craftsmanship—from traditional to modern pieces—showcasing the talent of the Southern Highlands. The Guild plays a vital role in the region’s creative economy. Through craft fairs, retail locations, live demonstrations, and educational events, they promote the value of handmade goods and support our local artisan community. Throughout the year, these craftsmen can be found at the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway, at 930 Tunnel Road in Blowing Rock, NC, Moses Cone Manor, and now at the recently opened new location in the Grove Arcade.