FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Blowing Rock, N.C. - Even though the town's population swells during the high season with visitors and part-timers, there are only 1600 permanent residents in Blowing Rock. Interestingly, a disproportionate number of them are artists - painters, potters, jewel smiths, crafters, woodworkers, musicians, actors - drawn by the mountain town's creative muse.
Many of Blowing Rock's resident artists have galleries on or near the town's Main Street, offering visitors an opportunity to buy high quality art and discuss the creative process with the artists themselves on an easy walking excursion.
Here are three examples of artists who live, create and sell their work in Blowing Rock. More information is available at listed web sites.
Gaines Kiker, Silversmith
(gaineskikersilversmith.com)
Gaines says that "place" provides a powerful ingredient for inspiration, and the charm and adventure of Blowing Rock brought him there. A designer metalsmith, Gaines specializes in silver, gold, platinum, mixed metals and precious stones. His gallery on Morris Street, just off Main Street, showcases a collection of contemporary jewelry that includes earrings, necklaces, bracelets and functional art. Gaines also specializes in custom designs. "What I want to do is take your idea and make it into something that is an expression of your personality," Gaines says."
Kevin Beck
(capehartbeckgallery.com)
Prominent North Carolina landscape artist, Kevin Beck is a "plein air" painter who paints on location in the High Country. Local residents and visitors often catch sight of him at his easel - road, stream and mountainside. "I work in both soft pastel and oil paint," Kevin says. "I interpret not only the actual subject matter but my emotional response to it." He's known for his vibrant interpretations of mountain scenery.
Meet Kevin and see his artwork in the Upstairs Gallery at 1098 Main St. on the 2nd floor of the historic Martin House. Several other regional and national artists are also represented.
Bolick and Traditions Pottery
(traditionspottery.com)
Mike and Janet Calhoun are part of a multigenerational line - including the Bolick and Owen families - that has been producing pottery for decades. They create handmade pottery in traditional shapes such as face jugs, Rebekah pitchers and candlesticks, as well as mugs, bowls, and teapots. Traditions Pottery blends Bolick, Traditions, and Original Owens Pottery in a wide selection of functional, decorative, and folk art including the well-known "Owens Red" glaze.
On the first floor of the historic Martin House on Main Street, Traditions Pottery also offers other local handmade items and gourmet foods.
For more information on these artists - as well as others living and working in Blowing Rock, visit blowingrock.com.
For information:
Tracy Brown, Executive Director
Blowing Rock TDA
(828) 295-4636
tbrown@blowingrock.com
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