Art & Craft Exhibit reopens after building repair, explores how ‘The Spirit of Appalachia’ makes for favorable community life
LENOIR, N.C. – Our current Art & Craft Exhibit – “The Spirit of Appalachia” – opened on Oct. 13. Two days later, damage from a rain storm forced us to close for the rest of the month for repairs. But we are reopen! The exhibit, originally scheduled to run through Nov. 14 will now run through the Christmas holidays. By keeping this exhibit up, it allows the creators an opportunity to showcase their talent and make a bit of money in these tough economic times. The purpose of the exhibit is to explore – and offer – what Appalachian Artisans believe are the conditions favorable for community life. It includes stunning art, fascinating history and devoted craftsmanship. The photos below will provide you a glimpse into what talent this region has. You need to come in person to fully appreciate it. And we’d appreciate the visit!
We’re please to count at least two dozen contributing local Artisans for this exhibit (listed below alphabetically).
Painters
- Vannah Aldridge (2 works)
- Kathy Rosenberger (3 works)
- Rhonda Brush Smith (7 works)
- Tonja Smith (8 works)
- Matthew Strawn (4 works)
Writers
- Alen D. Baker (3 titles)
- Michael Barrick (1 title)
- Thomas Blanton (5 titles)
- Karin Seuren Davidson (1 title)
- Tony Deal (3 titles)
- Gretchen Griffith and collaborators (8 titles)
- Lou Perez (1 title)
- Tonja Smith (2 titles – for children)
- Carol Starr (1 title)
- Lucy Wilkes (2 titles)
- Foothills Writers (2 titles)
Craftspeople
- David Anders (Fly-tying)
- Karin Davidson (Shawls, shawl pins, fingerless gloves, Goat Milk soap, pin cushions)
- Amber Shoemake (Jewelry)
- Barbara Volk (Tinctures and Ointment)
Sculpture
- Joe Bigley (4 pieces)
Wood/Metal Work
- Allyn Barrick (4 pieces plus; for sale but also used for display).
- Roger Miller
I hope you’ll visit visit Grassroots Appalachia. The artists share what inspires them and we believe you’ll be inspired by their talent and enthusiasm. That, to my way of thinking, makes for Conditions Favorable for Community Life – our ultimate goal at Grassroots Appalachia.
© Michael M. Barrick, 2026. Home page photo of “The Hatmaker” by Tonja Smith
About Grassroots Appalachia
We believe Appalachia’s greatest resource is her people. Helping to create conditions favorable for community life is why Grassroots Appalachia exists. We work to connect and cultivate Appalachian people and traditions in Lenoir and beyond. We are located at 458-B Harper Avenue in Lenoir, N.C. Our normal business hours are Wednesday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and other times for events.
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