By Jessica Isaacs | jessica@highcountrypress.com
This weekend, head over to the historic WPA-era Banner Elk School, which will transform into a premier art gallery for shoppers of all tastes, interests and budgets during the second installment of “Art on the Greene” shows in 2016.
The show will play host to a wide variety of artists from local, regional and national art scenes. Peruse a vast selection of juried arts and crafts during these times:
Friday, July 1: 1-7 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, July 2-3: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
You’ll find medias including wood, glass, fiber, clay, jewelry, photography, painting, leather, mixed media and metals.
Orchestrated by a private promoter for a decade beforehand, the event first became known as “Art on the Greene” last summer when the town owned the old school property for the first time.
“When the town bought the school, at a very expensive purchase price, the town decided to continue this event, even though the private promoter had retired, and use that as a way to serve visitors who were used to the event and to raise money for the revitalization of the property,” said Kimberly Tufts, event organizer and participating artist.
“What I have heard, as both a vendor and a director, is that the quality of art being represented is very good. People are pleased with that, and the variety of mediums.”
The handmade, expertly crafted pieces you’ll find at the show will make great additions to your own collections or wonderful gifts for friends and loved ones. With price ranges fit for any budget, there will truly be something for everyone at Art on the Greene.
“Most vendors are very smart about making sure that people who like that they do can at least take a representation of their work home,” said Tufts.
The show will feature a selection of at least 30 artists, some of which will offer demonstrations.
If you’re an artist and you’d like to be considered as a vendor, contact the town and submit an application. A rolling jury process will continue this summer, although the deadline for next year’s events is set in stone as March 1, 2017.
“We will still be considering artists until we run out of space, and it’s a pretty large space,” Tufts said.
While you’re in town, enjoy the small town charm of Banner Elk’s friendly and welcoming community. Stay in a cozy inn, bed and breakfast, cabin or hotel. Wine and dine at one of its world-class restaurants. Kick back to live music at some of the town’s favorite spots.
Come on out to downtown Banner Elk and enjoy Art on the Green this weekend!
For more information, call the Town of Banner Elk at 828-898-5398, visit www.townofbannerelk.org, contact Tufts at beshows@townofbannerelk.org or follow Art on the Greene on Facebook.
The juried show will return Labor Day weekend, Sept. 3-4.
About Banner Elk
Tucked away in the hills of Avery County, this peaceful community is home to less than 1,100 full-time residents. But don’t let its small size fool you — it’s also home to a four-year university, close to popular attractions, located between two of the region’s best known ski resorts and offers an array of options for shopping, dining, lodging and outdoor adventures.
Head over to BannerElk.com to learn more about staying, dining and playing while you’re in town this Memorial Day Weekend.

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