A diverse gallery of contemporary and traditional crafts in an exhilarating space
The Folk Art Center in Asheville boasts two floors of fine crafts produced by members of the Southern Highland Handicraft Guild in a delightful, airy venue that practically overhangs the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here you’ll find some of the region’s most exquisite wovens, glassware, basketry, handmade furniture, ceramic treasures and nature-inspired jewelry, along with hundreds of gift ideas. Demonstrations take place inside and out, spring through fall color ~ a chance to jawbone with the artist while his or her hands are busy making something glorious.
The Folk Art Center houses three exhibit galleries, a craft library, an auditorium, and the Allanstand Craft Shop, the oldest continuously operating craft store in the nation. Exhibits feature crafts from current members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild as well as samples from the Guild’s 3,500-piece collection of craft objects dating to the turn of the 20th century. The Folk Art Center also offers daily demonstrations by master crafters and a series of educational events seasonally.
Opened as a cooperative effort by the Guild, the National Park Service, and the Appalachian Regional Commission, the Folk Art Center also houses the Eastern National Bookstore and Information Center. The Southern Highland Craft Guild represents over 900 craftspeople in nine southeastern states.
Free admission and open daily except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Hours: 10am – 5pm
