EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH
Times are changing, and fewer people are growing up around family members who make crafted items such as furniture or baskets. The educational mission of the Southern Highland Craft Guild is to discover, preserve, and promote knowledge and appreciation of traditional and contemporary crafts of the Appalachian region. Educational programs include exhibitions, demonstrations, collections, and special events which are produced for craftspeople, students, and the general public.
Educational Outreach Program
The Southern Highland Craft Guild’s educational mission is to discover, preserve, and promote the craft traditions of the Appalachian region. Our programs include exhibitions, demonstrations, and special events designed for craftspeople, students, and the general public.
Our Educational Outreach connects students and communities with local artisans, offering hands-on experiences to learn about traditional and contemporary crafts. Through school visits and programs at the Folk Art Center, children can meet artisans, discover the process of making, and gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsperson's life.
Guild members, many of whom have taught at renowned craft schools like Penland and John C. Campbell Folk School, provide a unique opportunity to learn directly from experienced makers. To arrange a program for your group, please contact the librarian at the Folk Art Center at 828-523-4110 or via email.
EDUCATION CENTERS
Thirteen members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild are Education Centers- places for visitors to gain knowledge and a deeper understanding of craft skills. Visit their websites to find their workshop schedules.
EDUCATIONAL EVENT SERIES
These events are free and open to the public. They take place at the Folk Art Center on Saturdays from 10-4. For more information, click the links below or contact the Folk Art Center at 828-523-4110 or [email protected].
2026 Events
CRAFT FAIRS & SPECIAL EVENTS
May 2 and June 6 - Pop-up Mini Craft Fairs at the Folk Art Center
July 16-19 and October 15-18 - Craft Fairs of the Southern Highlands at Harrah's Cherokee Center-Asheville
September 5-6Â - Craft Making & Thinking: Craft Conference at the Folk Art Center
December 5 and 12 Holiday Sale Markets in the Folk Art Center's auditorium
EDUCATIONAL EVENTS
Folk Art Center
April 4Â - Glass, Metal, and Clay Day
May 9Â - Fiber Day
August 8Â - Wood Day
September 19-20 - Heritage Weekend
DAILY CRAFT DEMOS
Folk Art Center
Free craft demonstrations take place in the lobby of the Folk Art Center from March through December from 10 am-4 pm.
