July 2026 Roundup: ‘If Not Me, Then Who?’

​"If you can't find the book you want, write it." — Toni Morrison

This month, ArtsvilleUSA celebrates those who ask, “If not me, then who?” Jackson County artist Robert Burch combines his passion for the outdoors and extreme sports to create striking glass art. Spencer Beals, an artist from the River Arts District, shares how uniting with fellow creatives helped save one of Asheville's last urban forests and protect its endangered species. Finally, the founders of The Big Crafty reflect on the brave beginnings of their “creative community family reunion” and offer an inside look at how artists can start their own movements.

A special shout-out goes to our frequent collaborator, photographer Michael Freas, who documented the human impact of Hurricane Helene when NOAA photographers couldn’t reach the site. His powerful images were chosen by the Chief Scientist of the National Weather Service to present to environmental science leaders across the country.

Discover more inspiration by following us on Pinterest, where we’re sharing exhibition highlights, behind-the-scenes peeks, and stories about WNC’s most exciting artists.

Breaking Into the Big Crafty: Insider Tips From the Founders

When Brandy Bourne and Justin Rabuck held the first Big Crafty in 2008, they thought it would be a one-time thing—a quirky gathering for indie artists who didn’t have a foothold in Asheville’s shops or galleries. But what began as a creative experiment quickly turned into something much bigger: a packed house, a line out the door, and a community that demanded more. As the event turns 17, founders Brandy Bourne and Justin Rabuck reveal what artists need to know to earn a spot at Asheville’s favorite art festival.

Read the story here.

‘I Don’t Know if the World Needs More Vases’: The Unconventional Life and Art of Glassblower Robert Burch

Jackson County glass artist Robert Burch makes work that’s unruly, sometimes risky, and often experimental: climbing ropes fused into figure-eights; a light fixture welded from barbed wire scavenged in the American West; and endless stacks of natural stone and blown glass, echoing the cairns he finds along mountain trails. This summer, three of these cairns are featured in Open // Air, ArtsvilleUSA’s virtual summer outdoor exhibition, now on view.

Read the interview here.

Spencer Beals Mobilizes Art in Defense of the UNC Asheville Woods

Last December, local artist Spencer Beals gathered more than 30 local artists for “Batland,” a guerrilla installation of over 40 painted wooden bats, placed secretly by night on branches throughout the UNC Asheville woods, an endangered 45-acre forest under threat from development. Now, Spencer is speaking with us about the intersection of art, advocacy, and community building in Asheville.

Listen to our conversation here.

News + Notes From Asheville and Beyond

Here’s where we share quick craft bites for busy hands and hungry minds. This month: Leicester artists invite you inside their studios for a countywide tour, podcast guest Spencer Beals maps out “Batland” at the YMCA, and ArtsvilleUSA unveils its upcoming fall exhibition, Body of Work.

Events

• Adult Field Course: Appalachian Woodcraft | August 12 | Grandfather Mountain
  This immersive daylong field course explores the traditions of Appalachian woodcraft, guiding participants from forest to finished object. After a guided walk identifying native trees and their uses, attendees will craft a classic pioneer hook from local wood, a staple of mountain life. Advance registration required; tickets available online beginning June 12. More information here.
• Asheville Quilt Show | August 13–15 | WNC Ag Center, Davis Event Center
  The region’s premier quilt showcase returns with three days of artistry and competition. Discover more than 300 quilts on display, special exhibits, vendor booths, live demonstrations by expert quilters, and a silent auction. With over $13,000 in prize money and family-friendly activities, this event is a must for textile enthusiasts. Admission $10; discounts for students and children. More information here.
• Come to Leicester Annual Artist Studio Tour | August 15–16 | Leicester, NC
  Explore Leicester on this self-guided studio tour featuring artists working in painting, iron, wood, glass, textiles, pottery, jewelry, and more. Studios and community hubs welcome visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Maps are available online and at the Leicester Community Center. Plan your route and experience the vibrant local arts scene. More information here.

Exhibitions/Open Calls

• Reflections | Through August 26 | Blue Spiral 1
  Reflections brings together a dynamic group of glass artists to explore the expressive possibilities of the medium. From sculptural forms to functional pieces, this exhibition highlights glass as both craft and contemporary art. More information here.
• Spencer Beals’ Batland | Ongoing | Ferguson Family YMCA
  This month’s podcast guest, Spencer Beals, presents recent work at ArtsvilleUSA’s YMCA gallery, including a detailed map of “Batland,” his guerrilla installation of over 40 painted wooden bats throughout the UNC Asheville woods. On view now.
• Holding Together: Cloth, Material & Making | August 14–September 19 | Madison County Arts Council
  This contemporary textile exhibition examines how artists build, mend, and connect through fabric. Curated by Amber M. Jenson, the show opens with a reception on August 14 and runs through September 19 at the Madison County Arts Council. More information here.
• Body of Work | Opens September 2 | ArtsvilleUSA Digital Magazine
  ArtsvilleUSA’s fall exhibition, Body of Work, explores the joys and burdens of the corporeal body, reflecting on what slips away and exalting what endures. Curated by Elise Wilson, the show features evocative works that blur boundaries between presence and absence, beauty and dissolution. More information about our upcoming exhibitions here.
• National Gingerbread House Competition | November 2026 | Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
  Entries are now open for the 2026 National Gingerbread House Competition, a beloved holiday tradition attracting bakers of all ages. This year’s judging panel features acclaimed pastry and cookie artists, ensuring world-class standards and creative flair. Over $40,000 in prizes; entries will be displayed at the Grove Park Inn following the event. Key dates begin July 22. More information here.

In The News

• ArtsvilleUSA Photographer’s Helene Images Selected by the National Weather Service
  Photographs by Asheville-based artist Michael Freas, captured for ArtsvilleUSA in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, were selected by the Chief Scientist of the National Weather Service and showcased during the Esri User Conference Plenary Session. Michael’s powerful images illustrated the impact of extreme weather and the role of technology in public safety. The selection also highlighted the essential role artists play in responding to disaster and shaping community recovery. Read the full press release and explore the accompanying artwork for a deeper look at Michael Freas’s work and its impact.

Special Thanks to Our Partners

All images published with permission of the artist(s). Featured image/graphic: Robert Burch.