The US Cellular comes alive through October 19th with fine traditional and contemporary crafts. Nearly 200 craftspeople fill the two levels of the center selling their works of clay, fiber, glass, leather, metal, mixed media, natural materials, paper, wood and jewelry.
The Fairs, a local tradition since 1948, showcase the work of members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Having been accepted into the Guild through a rigorous jury process, these craftspeople are the best of the best in the Appalachian region. Membership is open to artists living in the mountain counties of nine states from Maryland to Alabama.
The Fairs also feature craft demonstrations, and, beginning on Friday, local musicians share their love of traditional and bluegrass mountain music live on the arena stage. Unlike any other fair, the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands is an experience, a place to show off the talent and innovation of Guild members.
It is diverse: Crafts rooted in Appalachian traditions are featured along with the work of contemporary artists, reinventing their medium to accommodate the modern world and to reflect their view of it.
Admission is $8 for adults. Two-day passes cost $12. Children under 12 enter for free.
Additional information can be found at www.southernhighlandguild.org.