Blue Ridge Craft Trails Month showcases Henderson County artists

Watch handmade pottery emerge from a kiln, learn how traditional hooked rugs get their shape and see a simple block of wood become a a toy car — these experiences and more take place throughout the month of July for Blue Ridge Craft Trails Month in Henderson County, according to a Visit Hendersonville press release.

The event showcases 13 studios and galleries located along three Henderson County trails curated by the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. The trails are: Touring the Heart of Hendersonville, Wandering Flat Rock and Finding Wonders in the Outskirts, the release said.

“July is a wonderful time to explore the studios and galleries of these talented artists,” said Michelle Owens, executive director of Henderson County Tourism, in the release. “Art enthusiasts can follow each trail completely, or they can pick and choose based on personal preferences.”

Artists represented along the trails include potters, woodworkers, jewelry makers, fiber artists and more. Several galleries exhibit local and regional art, from functional to decorative.

In addition to holding regular visiting hours, artists along the trails host special events for Craft Trails Month. Dian Magie Pottery loads her custom-built wood-fired kiln with pottery on July 1. Magie will fire the kiln on July 3 and unload finished pieces on July 6.

Art MoB Studios hosts rug-hooking demonstrations every Monday in July, as well as basket-making demonstrations on July 9 and July 21, and a face jug demonstration on July 23. On July 24, Apple Country Woodcrafters will hold an open house. People can stop by Sweet Magnolia Gallery Wednesday-Saturday to see Melina Lawton create her one-of-a-kind jewelry.

While most galleries keep regular hours, some studios are open by appointment only, so visitors should call ahead.

For more information about Blue Ridge Craft Trails Month in Henderson County — including maps, artist profiles and a listing of special events — go to http://www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org/businesses/craft-trails or call (800) 828-4244.

This article originally appeared on Hendersonville Times-News: Blue Ridge Craft Trails Month showcases Henderson County artists