PRESS RELEASE
[Mars Hill, NC] – [May 23, 2025] – The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) is proud to announce Returning to the Ridge: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Invitational. This landmark event will bring together the exceptional talents of 33 artists featured on the Blue Ridge Craft Trails (BRCT), showcasing the vibrant artistic landscape of Western North Carolina. Mars Landing Galleries, owned by Miryam Rojas and located at 37 Library Street, Mars Hill, NC 28754, will serve as the venue for this celebration of craft from July 2 to September 28, 2025.
Southern Appalachia’s artistic spirit, deeply rooted in its beautiful natural environment, will be on full display. From the intricate details of pottery to the masterful craftsmanship of woodworking, the exhibition will feature 60 pieces spanning a diverse range of traditional mediums, including fiber art, printmaking, metalworking (including jewelry), and basketry. This celebration of local artistry comes at a crucial time, as Hurricane Helene impacted many artists. Artists participating are from the central and western sections of BRNHA’s 25-county footprint, encompassing the NC mountains and the Qualla Boundary.
“The ‘Returning to the Ridge’ craft exhibition builds on Western North Carolina’s history as a leading center for craft production and education in the United States,” states curator Anna Fariello. “The participating craft makers not only created incredibly beautiful objects, but also continue to keep alive hand-making traditions.”
The Blue Ridge Craft Trails, an initiative of the BRNHA launched in 2022, serves as a vital link between art enthusiasts and the skilled artisans who call this extraordinary region home. This invitational exhibition provides a unique opportunity to experience the breadth and depth of talent nurtured within the heritage area.
“If visitors to the region purchase craft, they are often buying a functional object that they can use every day, forming a relationship with a favorite coffee mug in their hands, or a scarf around their neck,” notes BRCT Coordinator, Robin Johnston.
The gallery’s regular hours are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm. Adding to the visitor experience, the exhibition coincides with three First Friday events in Downtown Mars Hill – July 4, August 1, and September 5. On these evenings, the downtown area, including Mars Landing Galleries (open 5 pm – 8 pm, with live music), will offer extended hours, inviting the community to explore local shops, restaurants, galleries and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
“The opportunity to support and collaborate with such an esteemed entity as the Blue Ridge Craft Trails [an initiative of BRNHA] is an honor,” states Miryam Rojas. “I am so thrilled that Mars Landing Galleries has the space to serve the BRCT artist members, and the greater WNC community in general.”
Learn more about the Blue Ridge Craft Trails and the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area’s commitment to preserving and promoting the region’s heritage at BlueRidgeHeritage.com/Blue-
Contact:
Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
Bridget Herbig, Communications Manager
bridget@blueridgeheritage.com
828-818-5334
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