Group shows, whether curated or juried, can be unruly. The most challenging group shows both to install and talk about, however, are those with no central theme or concept. While viewers are often assured of variety in message, concept and medium, these shows can be uneven experiences. Experienced artists’ works may find themselves displayed next … Read more
It’s a new year, and Asheville’s stylish downtown residents and visitors seem to be celebrating with Technicolor wardrobe accents. No dreary, citified blacks and grays here. Instead, happy hues fill the streets, from cheery overcoats and vibrant headwear to whimsical boots and wraps. Looks like a great start to 2008.
Aaron Barlow and his sister moved to Asheville on a coin toss (Charleston, S.C., was the other option). Beginning in the middle of the Bele Chere rush in 2002, Barlow, a longtime waiter at the Flying Frog’s street-level bar and café, has seen his share of wild times while working at the downtown hot spot. … Read more
A lot has been written about the DIY movement in recent years, but for those who enjoy making something—yet aren’t compelled/motivated/experienced enough to embark on a knitted afghan or decoratively painted highboy—never fear. Your crafting book has arrived. Local designer Suzie Millions, a professional artist who admits to inheriting the “festooning” gene, just published The … Read more
Several weeks ago, I asked the editor of this section if I could write the occasional column on locally made sausage. The day before I made my request, I had passed a sign outside a produce stand in north Asheville that read “FRESH SAUSAGE,” and nearly caused a multiple-car pileup trying to drive off the … Read more
Western North Carolina’s roads and trails draw thousands of adventure-seeking cyclists every year. Tackling this daunting terrain isn’t easy, but for the members of Asheville Women’s Cycling, the area amounts to a year-round playground, with each season bringing a new set of challenges. Patricia Pinner, the group’s founder and current president, raced with the Champion … Read more
P.F. Chang’s is coming! P.F. Chang’s is coming! In a release sure to excite devotees of the stylish Chinese restaurant chain, the developers behind Biltmore Park Town Square this month announced a commitment from the company to open its first Western North Carolina outlet. P.F. Chang’s will join previously announced tenants Barnes & Noble and … Read more
Wild women, unite!: The North Carolina Wildlife Commission is headed our way with its “Becoming an Outdoors Woman” retreat, scheduled for April 11 to 13 at Camp Cheerio in Alleghany County. The program will include instruction on bird-watching, basic camping and backpacking, canoe skills, digital photography, wilderness survival, outdoor cooking, stream ecology, rock climbing, shotgun … Read more
When I was a child, Christmas was a magical time. My sisters and I would sit at the big table in the drafty dining room and look through the “wish books” that came in the mail each December. Indulging our imaginations was good, and the feeling of anticipation was wonderful. Yes, “Santie Claus” was a … Read more
A traveling science exhibit coming to the North Carolina Arboretum might capture the imagination—or bristle the hairs on the back of the neck. Where it’s cool to be creepy: A tarantula with a well-appointed domicile is one one many wonders in an exhibit headed to the North Carolina Arboretum. Reminiscent of a circus sideshow, the … Read more
