It Fills Your Soul

LEAF kicks off its 30th year of culture and learning with a retreat in Black Mountain.

Despite the recent challenges that Western North Carolina has faced, many organizations have been resilient in the face of adversity. LEAF Global Arts, now in its 30th year, is no exception. 

The Lake Eden nonprofit—which connects communities and cultures through music, arts education, storytelling, dance, and so much more—continues to persevere, despite recent challenges such as COVID, and more recently, Hurricane Helene’s devastation.

Founded by Western North Carolina native Jennifer Pickering, who moved back to her stomping grounds around Lake Eden and Black Mountain in 1995, LEAF continues to bring people together from all cultures, exchanging ideas and as such, informing many others.

(Left) LEAF RETREAT - May 8-11; Lake Eden (828)686-8742; theleaf.org; (Right) Pickering and staff with international culture keepers and advisors.

Pickering started LEAF, “from scratch infused with lots of global and WNC arts, and dedicated it to being multi-generational, multi-cultural, and honoring the land and our community. In 2004, LEAF transformed into a nonprofit and expanded our dedication to our community.”

The impact Pickering and LEAF have had over the years is impressive. Known for massive festivals in May and October, in addition to hosting arts-inspired classes and workshops, Pickering notes that the organization has brought numerous artists from 116 countries, who assist with “expanding people’s connections from all over the world. It fills up your soul . . . your spirituality!” she notes.

Leaf Retreat Memory Tree Planting Ceremony at Lake Eden barn.

The May LEAF Global Arts event has, “transformed into a retreat, creating a smaller, more intimate setting,” Picker states. “It’s formed with an old-school sensibility. There’s an expanded focus on learning by day and playing by night!”

Folks from all over flock to the festival, with many pitching tents along the beautiful shoreline of Lake Eden, and enjoying the songwriting contests, live performances and music from numerous cultures, children’s crafts and games, dances, puppetry, and so much more.

Last year’s October festival was canceled, but this year’s signature event is set for October 16-19.