As its name implies, Trackside Studios in Asheville’s River Arts District sits adjacent to the railroad tracks at 375 Depot Street. The building was built in 1904 and served industrial purposes, was a local social club, then became a commercial photography business in 1987. Today, Trackside Studios fills the space with a vibrant and diverse range of art and craft. Managers Julie Bell and Michael Allen Campbell now show and create their own work in 5,300 square feet of gallery space that also showcases the work of an additional 60 local artists.
Trackside Studios artists greet visitors daily and answer questions while also beading, working with textiles, creating glass mosaics, sculpting with wire, collaging, or painting. The friendly and fun “Trackside Vibe” is complemented by five large windows that overlook the tracks and usher in a wealth of natural light and a mezzanine level with windows and skylights.
Visitors to Trackside Studios can buy handcrafted items including jewelry, fiber creations, glass mosaics, mixed media assemblage, painted and sculpted vases, wire trees, and pottery. Two dimensional offerings include the traditional craft of serigraphy. Other work from Trackside artists includes watercolor, acrylics, oil, cold wax and encaustic, and photography. Trackside Studios artists also offer private and small group classes in a dedicated classroom.
Hours: Daily, 11 am-4 pm, and by appointment.
