Something More: Four worthwhile art destinations to visit this fall

Art and craft galleries can be found on every corner of Western North Carolina—which is no surprise given our region’s cultural and creative heritage. And while every market has its own charm, we’ve picked a few collections that stand out against the crowd. Here are four spaces that not only display beautiful work, but offer something unique to their patrons.

The Bascom: Center for the Visual Arts // Highlands

This expansive campus is home to many high-quality exhibits including its outdoor sculpture trail, a tributary to the Chatov family paintings and sketches, an exhibition featuring submissions from the local community in recognition of the town’s 150th anniversary, and much more. The center also offers classes and workshops, as well as take-home art kits, clubs, and other special events which all celebrate the visual arts. 323 Franklin Rd.; (828) 526-4949; thebascom.org

Flow Handmade Adornments // Marshall

What started as a search for new retail space for eight local female artists has grown to showcase the work of over 60 regional makers. Featuring a variety of mediums including clothing, pottery, jewelry, furniture, sculptures, and other visual art pieces, Flow emphasizes the Slow Craft movement, which highlights styles that are more time-consuming and skillful. The shop closed after Hurricane Helene, but was recently able to reopen thanks to donations from the community; visit their website for ongoing updates on Flow Handmade Adornment’s progress. 14 South Main St.; (828) 649-1686; flowmarshall.com

Carlton Gallery // Banner Elk

^{Toni Carlton of the Carlton Gallery}

This showroom, which was established in 1982 as a fiber arts studio, has evolved into one of the most established fine arts galleries in the High Country. It houses the works of over 150 artists, some local and some national. The Carlton Gallery’s rustic mountain location adds to the charm of the residing handmade niceties; check out their website for information about upcoming classes and workshops with exhibiting artists. 10360 NC Hwy 105 S.; (828) 963-4288; carltongallery.com

Woolworth Walk // Asheville

A stroll through downtown Asheville is incomplete without a stop at this retro catch-all mall for local artists. Split into two levels, artists can display their work in various booths for purchase, and the gallery features everything from fiber arts and apparel to glass, metal, photography, and even functional wares. Alongside the booths, patrons can grab a bite at the Old Fashioned Soda Fountain, a historic counter-serve diner that offers sandwiches, sides, and ice cream floats with a side of ’50s nostalgia. 25 Haywood St.; (828) 254-9210; woolworthwalk.com