Welcome to the Artsville podcast where we celebrate contemporary American Arts & Crafts from Asheville, NC and beyond. The Artsville podcast has it all: Painting, Pottery, Weaving, Woodworking, Welding, Glass Blowing and more. Just like Asheville, NC, Artsville is a friendly podcast where good folks like you can discover world class artisans, artists, craftsman and makers who use their hands and natural materials like fiber, clay, metal, glass, paper and wood to create stunning original arts and crafts.
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Preserving a Picturesque America With Conservationist Scott ‘Doc’ Varn
Season 1 · Episode 31
Friday, June 20, 2025 • Duration 44:23
Editor’s note: This episode was originally published in June 2024. We’re revisiting our conversation with Scott “Doc” Varn, founder and executive director of Preserving a Picturesque America, as part of our outdoor art-themed coverage in June 2025.
What’s more exciting than an epic treasure hunt, searching for America’s wild places? Today’s guest, Scott “Doc” Varn, is the founder and executive director of Preserving a Picturesque America (PAPA). Based in Asheville, NC, this unique organization upholds the conservation work begun by Victorian artist-explorers, who documented America’s unspoiled natural beauty with prose and illustrations. Their expeditions paved the way for PAPA and its contemporary conservation efforts, which are equal parts adventure and art.
The idea for PAPA emerged when Doc, a woodcut and watercolor artist, stumbled across a popular 19th-century book of scenic engravings while searching for prints of his home in Western North Carolina. Edited by the famed Romantic poet William Cullen Bryant, PicturesqueAmerica features 900 wood engravings and 50 steel engravings, accompanied by colorful essays that describe the scenery. Initially serialized before being bound into two volumes, the bestselling book helped popularize tourism in America and sparked the country’s conservation movement following the Civil War. It also inspired Doc to found PAPA and discover the forgotten secrets of the county’s first travel guide.
Using maps and original illustrations from Picturesque America, Doc and his team of writers, historians, and artists hunt for the exact location of the book’s images. These spots are sometimes hard to find, but Doc uncovers clues by chatting with locals and absorbing regional history as he travels. Tracing Picturesque America’s footsteps, artists and writers working with PAPA document these rediscovered places with prose, sketches, and plein air paintings.
Watch the PBS episode on PAPA,The Land We Live In, to learn more about Doc and his expeditions through scenic America. The episode delves into Doc’s quest to find locations along the French Broad River, which flows through Tennessee and North Carolina, his home state. Doc uses the French Broad chapter of Picturesque America as a guide, supplementing his trek with word-of-mouth clues from residents and local historians. PAPA’s book,Rediscovering a Picturesque America, is their version of the original French Broad chapter, a modern retelling of the classic Victorian travelogue.
For more information, please visit https://www.artsvilleusa.com/preserving-a-picturesque-america
Community Through Clay: A Conversation With Sarah Wells Rolland of The Village Potters Clay Center
Season 1 · Episode 6
Monday, May 19, 2025 • Duration 01:01:46
Editor’s note: This episode was originally published in April 2022. We’re revisiting our conversation with Sarah Wells Rolland, owner, founder, and resident potter of The Village Potters Clay Center, as part of our clay-themed coverage in May 2025.
In the face of adversity, creativity has a remarkable way of shining through. No one embodies this spirit more than Sarah Wells Rolland, owner and founder of The Village Potters Clay Center, which was once an iconic gallery in Asheville’s River Arts District.
After Hurricane Helene caused significant damage to their facilities, The Village Potters is navigating the challenging journey of recovery while looking forward to exciting new beginnings. They’re temporarily operating out of a warehouse as they prepare to open a brand new 18,000 sq. ft. facility this summer. In this episode, Sarah shares her inspiring story of resilience, detailing the critical support needed to rebuild, replace kilns, and transform their new space into a thriving hub for creativity and collaboration. Help The Village Potters cover the significant costs of rebuilding by making a tax-deductible donation through their new fiscal sponsor or visiting their GoFundMe campaign.
In today’s episode, Sarah reveals the path to becoming a professional ceramic artist, reflecting on her 30-year career and the challenges she’s encountered along the way. She discusses the founding of The Village Potters as a shared gallery and collective, emphasizing how its educational initiatives nurture the next generation of artists. Tune in to discover why the River Arts District is integral to their mission and how the local arts community has rallied together to support one another.
Sarah also shares her top recommendations for first-time visitors to Asheville, offering insights into the rich artistic landscape and the many ways to enjoy the local culture. From tips on expanding your ceramic collection to the best barbecue spots in town, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight. As The Village Potters solidify their future, you’ll learn how every donation—big or small—can make a significant impact in their recovery and growth.
The Haywood Community College Professional Crafts Program with Amy Putansu and Brian Wurst
Season 1 · Episode 30
Monday, May 13, 2024 • Duration 40:18
Both students and teachers in the Haywood Community College (HCC) Professional Crafts program form a prominent part of the vibrant creative community in Western North Carolina, an area with a rich history of traditional craftsmanship. Today, you’ll hear from textile artist Amy Putansu and woodworking instructor Brian Wurst about the accessible nature of the HCC Professional Crafts Program in Waynesville, North Carolina, and the professional practice training that makes this program so unique. You’ll also gain insight into what it takes to apply, what you’ll learn as a student there, what the future of craft in America looks like, and much more! For anyone who is interested in additional training in clay, fiber art, jewelry, or wood, plus the entrepreneurial skills you need to market yourself and your work, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation with Amy Putansu and Brian Wurst!
Key Points From This Episode:
What HCC Professional Crafts offers, from fine craftsmanship to entrepreneurship skills.
Things that make this program unique and how Brian became an instructor.
Insight into the accessible application requirements and the history of the program.
The kinds of students that typically attend the classes and what they learn.
Fresh, contemporary takes on the traditional craft history of Western NC.
Strong connections between economic development and craft making.
How Brian and Amy have integrated entrepreneurship and creativity in their practices.
Perspectives on what the future of craft in America looks like.
A funny story about Louise’s last visit to the annual Penland School of Craft auction.
North Carolina Glass Center: Exploring the Studio Glass Movement With Executive Director Candace Reilly
Season 1 · Episode 29
Tuesday, July 8, 2025 • Duration 35:09
Editor’s note: This episode was originally published in April 2024. We’re revisiting our conversation with Candace Reilly, founder and executive director of the North Carolina Glass Center, as part of our July 2025 coverage themed around the Blue Ridge Craft Trails. This episode is also part of our partnership with the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area.
North Carolina's crafts scene has long been celebrated, but its pivotal role in the history of America’s Studio Glass Movement often flies under the radar. Since Harvey Littleton's arrival in the late 1970s, Western North Carolina has flourished as a hub for glassmakers and enthusiasts alike. In today’s episode, we welcome Candace Reilly, executive director of Asheville's popular North Carolina Glass Center (NCGC), to discuss the contemporary studio glass scene in WNC.
With nearly a decade of commitment to Asheville's arts community, Candace offers valuable insights into her role. As the leader at NCGC, she drives initiatives aimed at preserving traditional techniques while advancing the future of studio glass. At the heart of her vision is the belief in the transformative power of integrated arts education, which promotes not only creative expression but also social cohesion within the community.
In our conversation, Candace discusses the NCGC's mission and impact, tracing its journey from humble beginnings to Asheville's leading public-access glass studio and gallery. She highlights North Carolina's rich connection to glass artistry, fueled by the state’s resources and landscape that support artistic innovation and collaboration. Candace details the center's educational offerings, including workshops and residencies that foster inclusivity and creativity.
The Intersection of Art and Healing with Wendy Neuman & Stephanie Munn
Season 1 · Episode 28
Wednesday, March 13, 2024 • Duration 38:28
In this episode, we sit down with Wendy Neuman and Stephanie Munn to discuss the importance of art in building and strengthening communities based on their personal experiences. Stephanie is the Director of the Ferguson Family YMCA in Candler, North Carolina, and Wendy is a photographer, fashion designer, volunteer, and marketing expert.
In our conversation, Stephanie delves into the mission of the YMCA in fostering community connections and the wide range of programs they have for people of all ages and backgrounds. We discuss Wendy’s experiences as a photographer and fashion designer, including her work with cancer patients and her efforts to bring art into various organizations and events. We also talk about the importance of building friendships, building a safe place for children and families, Wendy’s Mandala and Kaleidoscope project, the role of art in bringing people together, why community engagement is essential, and much more! Join us, as we uncover the intersection of art, community, and healing with Wendy Neuman & Stephanie Munn!
Key Points From This Episode:
A brief update on Artsville's growth and new opportunities for 2024.
The unique art scene and community of Candler and Enka.
YMCA’s mission to build communities through inclusive programs.
How Stephanie realized the potential of the Candler and Enka communities.
Fostering artist-community engagement through Wendy’s workshops.
Discover the collaborations and wearable art featuring Wendy’s photography.
Stephanie shares details about the latest YMCA offerings and member benefits.
Wendy’s experiences photographing terminally ill children and cancer patients.
Why involvement with the YMCA is critical and how to get involved.
An Artists' Journey through Artsville with Elizabeth Walton & Amy Massey
Season 1 · Episode 27
Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • Duration 31:48
In this episode, we introduce two bright young artists, Elizabeth Walton and Amy Massey, who are making waves in Western North Carolina and beyond. Both Elizabeth and Amy recently graduated from Artsville’s First Virtual Gallery of Artists Cohort program, a digital and live marketing initiative designed to help artists succeed in the business of art. Elizabeth is a talented jewelry designer, with a passion for metalsmithing, and Amy Massey is a 2D artist and massage therapist. In our conversation we delve into their journeys, discussing their inspirations, creative processes, and the impact of the program on their careers. We unpack what keeps them inspired, juggling different jobs, how to market yourself without a gallery, their unique approaches to their work, the biggest lessons from the Virtual Gallery of Artists program, and much more! Join us as we discuss their artistic journeys, the challenges they face, and the exciting future of arts in Asheville and beyond. Tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
Introductions and background about guests Elizabeth Walton and Amy Massey.
Elizabeth’s journey from inheriting a studio to pursuing a sustainable metalsmithing practice.
They share their main takeaways and lessons from the Virtual Gallery of Artists program.
Amy discusses her unique fusion of art and bodywork and where she draws inspiration from.
Discover Elizabeth’s design process and how nature influences her work.
New friends and networking opportunities from the Virtual Gallery of Artists program.
Explore their diverse career paths, including galleries and self-promotion through art festivals.
Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities present in today's competitive art market.
The vibrant arts scene in Asheville and the exciting prospects for artists in the future.
A Guide to the Secondary Art Market with Lauren Brunk of Brunk Auctions
Season 1 · Episode 26
Wednesday, January 17, 2024 • Duration 37:03
Artworks are regularly sold at auctions around the world for record sums of money, but today’s guest believes that auctions serve a greater purpose than just growing the highest bidder’s collection. Every object is an invitation to consider our personal and collective histories through the unique and often fascinating story it has to tell. Today, you'll hear from a local auctioneer, Southern fine art specialist, and Senior Vice President of Brunk Auctions, Lauren Brunk. Brunk is a private auction house specializing in the sale of fine art, jewelry, antique furniture, coins, and countless other areas of collecting ranging from contemporary art to antiquities. In this episode, Lauren offers some insight into the world of auctions, the types of people that make up the buyers and sellers, how auctions retell the stories of the items they sell, and so much more. For a comprehensible guide to the secondary art market, be sure to tune in today!
Key Points From This Episode:
Defining the secondary art market and how it differs from the primary art market.
How virtual art sales have evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The wide variety of people who make up Brunk’s buyer and seller communities.
Ways that auctions retell the story of the items they sell.
Insight into the relationship between auction houses and museums.
Lauren’s relationship with the Black Potter, Jim McDowell.
How Brunk supports the next generation of art storytellers through community outreach.
What the objects at art auctions can teach us about value.
Symbiosis, Silkworms, and Ceramics with Andy Palmer and Vicki Essig
Season 1 · Episode 25
Monday, December 11, 2023 • Duration 32:50
You wouldn’t think that a town of under 500 people could be home to a thriving art gallery, let alone two competing ones across the road from one another. But in Bakersville, North Carolina, that is exactly the case. Joining us today is Andy Palmer, who co-owns the In Tandem gallery with his wife Silvia Ferrari-Palmer on the main street, and Vicki Essig, who runs Mica, another beautiful gallery just across the road. We talk with Andy and Vicki about their work as artists, and how the symbiotic relationship between their two galleries has contributed to the rich artistic community of Bakersville. Tuning in you’ll learn about the process behind Vicki’s incredible artworks (woven by silkworms!) and how her small community has supported her labor-intensive creations. She also shares the powerful story of a pair of silk overalls made in honor of civil rights activist, Joyce Ladner, how they were sold to a descendent of hers, and what this fortuitous connection demonstrates about community building. We hear from Andy about how his wife’s digital outreach transformed their gallery, the immense impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on online sales, and how he utilizes his background in ceramics to find artists for their gallery. Our conversation also covers Mica and In Tandem’s approach to branding, the Toe River Council’s important work supporting artists, and details about Artsville's new virtual gallery of artists. To hear all the fascinating details of this thriving artistic community and how to partner with other galleries, be sure to tune in!
Key Points From This Episode:
Get to know today’s guests, Andy Palmer and Vicki Essig.
Insight into Vicki’s weaving artworks and how she uses silkworms for her threads.
The benefits of being part of a small community and how they have supported her process.
Details of Andy and his wife Silvia’s gallery, In Tandem.
How Silvia improved digital outreach and how COVID-19 increased their online sales.
Where they find their artists and how Andy uses his expertise as a ceramics artist.
Vicki’s gallery Mica and its location across from In Tandem in their small town, Bakersville.
How they work together instead of competing with one another.
Mica’s selection process and how they support their artists.
How Bakersfield’s thriving artistic community has supported economic growth in Bakersville.
Exploring Asheville: Edgy, Artsy, and Inviting with Marla Tambellini
Season 1 · Episode 24
Monday, November 13, 2023 • Duration 36:26
If you’re a regular listener of the Artsville Podcast, you are already familiar with the rich creative spirit of Asheville and the historical significance of arts and crafts in the region. We like to shout it from the rooftops! But did you know that Asheville is a world-class tourism destination for so many other reasons too? Today, we are joined by Marla Tambellini, Senior VP of Marketing at Explore Asheville, our local Convention and Visitors Bureau, to find out what makes Artsville such a desirable place to visit. “There are a lot of communities that can say they have food, they have music, they have art,” says Marla, “but I think there's a special combination that makes Asheville stand out.” In this episode, Marla highlights some of the various attractions in our special corner of North Carolina and offers some insight into the ways that Explore Asheville promotes economic development in the area, champions local artists, and invites a growing number of visitors each year. Tune in for a glimpse into what makes Asheville so unique!
Key Points From This Episode:
The significance of arts and crafts in Asheville and why it's integral to the visitor economy.
Asheville’s eclectic community and the vibrancy that draws people in.
Strategic ways that Explore Asheville promotes economic development.
Insight into the profile of visitors that Asheville attracts.
How Explore Asheville champions local artists and elevates art organizations.
The unique creative spirit that draws people to Asheville.
Learn how to apply for Artsville’s Virtual Gallery of Artists!
Hilloween: A Mechanism for Unity with Gina Phillips
Season 1 · Episode 23
Sunday, October 15, 2023 • Duration 29:07
In today’s episode of Artsville, you’ll hear from Gina Phillips, a dear friend and someone who has played an integral part in the growth and development of Mitchell County, North Carolina. Gina’s commitments to the Penland School of Craft, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and rural education efforts in Mitchell County helped birth the idea for Hilloween, a countywide event that unites several areas over something we all love: spooky season! Hilloween is a natural expression of Gina's love for the theater and her years of performing and producing in New York, New Jersey, and North Carolina. Join us as she shares how the event leverages the county's strong arts heritage and introduces a new generation of Mitchell County residents to the magic and beauty of the arts. We also discuss what to expect from the 2023 edition, how Hilloween acts as a “mechanism for unity,” and Gina even sings us a few bars of 'Good Old Mountain Dew’ from Lulu Belle and Scotty Wiseman, plus so much more!
Key Points From This Episode:
An introduction to Hilloween and the annual Halloween party that inspired it.
Gina’s goals for economic and cultural development in Mitchell County.
How art brings people together (and attracts outsiders to underserved communities).
Insight into Gina’s collaboration with the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
Ways that Hilloween leverages Mitchell County’s strong cultural heritage.
What you can expect from the 2023 edition of Hilloween!
Why Gina refers to this year’s event as the “Bringing Dale McCurry Home Tour.”
Additionally, she shares news of the center's expansion to a second location in Black Mountain, reflecting its growth and the increased demand for glass experiences. Candace underscores the diverse revenue streams that support the center, inviting community involvement to sustain its mission. For those interested, she provides ways to engage with the center online and in person. This conversation on the Artsville Podcast offers insights into NCGC’s commitment to education and creativity, enriching Asheville’s cultural landscape.
For more information, please visit https://www.artsvilleusa.com/north-carolina-glass-center
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