More than pretty pictures, art in our homes and in our communities carries importance.
For centuries, art has been used to tell stories, evoke emotions, and document the social pulse of the era. Art can be found everywhere we look—in the structure of a tall building, in the craftsmanship of a table, or the delicate brushstrokes of a painting. Recognition and appreciation of art resides within each of us.
We applaud the organizations in our communities who are fostering these expressions of art. These institutions are encouraging local residents to not only appreciate art, but also to get involved. Whether you’re ready to pick up a camera, or simply observe local beauty, take a closer look at these spaces where art reigns supreme.
1. ASHEVILLE ART MUSEUM
In the heart of downtown Asheville, you’ll find The Asheville Art Museum. Founded in 1948, the museum is committed to being a vital force in the community. The permanent collection is comprised of 20th and 21st century American art, while the rotating exhibits focus on North Carolina’s cultural heritage. Studio Craft, Black Mountain College, and Cherokee artists are highlighted. In addition to offering various educational programs, making art accessible to a diverse audience of all ages is at the core of the museum’s philosophy. The Holden Community Gallery in the North Wing is an exhibit space that is always open and free to the general public. Additionally, free admission to the entire museum is offered the first Wednesday of every month from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.
2. LIBERTYTOWN ARTS
Thirteen-thousand square feet of creative expression reside within LibertyTown Arts Workshop in Fredericksburg, Virginia. A collection of 27 studios housing more than 40 artists converge to produce artwork in various mediums. Pottery, painting, quilting, weaving, jewelry making, glass blowing, and photography are represented. The space was developed in 2003 as a working studio space where artists converse, encourage, and collaborate. Owner D.D. Lecky explains that the center has become, “a gathering place where artists talk to each other, and through their artistic vision, create a different way of looking at the world.” The creative efforts of the artists flow out into the community, and promote an artistic environment. With a wide assortment of artists at varying experience levels, the art for sale is accessible and affordable. “Aspiration art is great, but the more accessible art is equally as inspiring,” explains Lecky. When it comes to the various classes that are offered, the approach is positive and encouraging, “it’s not about being the best, but it’s about expressing yourself.”
3. LYRIC THEATRE
Directly across from Virginia Tech’s main campus in downtown Blacksburg, Virginia, sits the Lyric Theatre. The beautiful space has operated as a non-profit movie theatre and community center since 1998. Independent and foreign films are screened weekly, along with live music, educational programs, and theatrical performances, including the Live At The Lyric series. The theater partners with various community art groups to host live programs, gallery opportunities, and exhibitions, in an effort to establish Blacksburg as an arts destination for the region.
4. NEW CITY ARTS INITIATIVE
This local non-profit is passionate about all things art. Through collaborations with artists and organizations throughout Charlottesville, its aim is to establish a creative network and promote community engagement with the arts. “We create, encourage, and support, believing that art enriches our community and our lives,” shares Executive Director, Maureen Brondyke. A recent collaboration between New City Arts Initiative and the Charlottesville Mural Project lead to the creation of a massive mural on a busy street in Crozet, Virginia, directly across from the tap room at the Starr Hill Brewery. Illustrator Duncan Robertson designed a lyrical scene that portrays musicians playing with the Blue Ridge Mountains behind them, with a distinct Appalachian vibe. The mural, which transformed an industrial space into a work of art, is part of the Charlottesville Mural Project’s Paint & Poetry series, which beautifies the city with large-scale murals.
5. CAMERON ART MUSEUM
The Cameron Art Museum, better known as CAM, is Wilmington, North Carolina’s epicenter for the arts. In addition to the museum’s indoor exhibit halls and outdoor display spaces, the Museum School offers a variety of adult and youth instructional programs. Ranging from beginner classes to master workshops, the sessions not only encourage community members to get involved in the arts, but provide employment opportunities to local artists and instructors. Art for all is encouraged at the museum—the Connections Program invites children and adults with mental, physical, emotional, or behavioral disabilities to experience the museum in a supported environment. The always free program is designed to minimize stress and provide a connection between each visitor and the art.
