Barbara Zaretsky of Cloth Fiber Workshop describes her processes
School will be out for most students soon – but that doesn’t mean we all stop learning over the summer! If you live in the Asheville area, or you're thinking of a visit to Western NC, you can explore and learn something new in the arts.
There are many opportunities at different levels of engagement. Here are some easy ones to take part in:
1: See artist at work. You’ll see demonstrations going on in many places. Always, always, everyday you can see artists at work at The Folk Art Center in east Asheville. Often you can see artists at work at Grovewood Gallery, Mountain Made Gallery, and studios in the River Arts District.
2. Take a tour. This is the next step of engaging by watching and learning, but it’s curated to your interests and you have the undivided attention of the artist. It’s much more personal - and you can see some of the nature or architectural sites in the region as well. (with me as your guide!)
3. Sign up for a workshop. “But I’m not creative.” “I was never good at drawing/painting/clay.” I’ve heard all those comments before! They are just a way of saying: “I’m not a professional artist”, well - neither am I, but a workshop is a lot of fun! You won’t be expected to be wonderful at trying something new the first time ;) so just enjoy the process.
Opportunities are all around. You can sign up for a short hands-on experience at the Silver River Center for Chair Caning; with Cloth Fiber Workshop; at the NC Glass Center; at The Village Potters; with artists in the Local Cloth studio; at the Asheville Art Museum; and several artists I offer tours to also teach workshops! Another place to check out is the Tryon School of Arts & Crafts - they always have classes and workshops offered!
