Meet the Artist at the Saluda Art Stroll, July 13 & August 10

Saluda was once best known for having the steepest railroad grade in the U.S. Today it’s all about the ascending arts community, reflected in part by the newly formed Saluda Art Alliance (SAA). The inrush of makers in this mountain burg comes to light every second Saturday, when galleries associated with the SAA stage open-house receptions, artist demos, and other celebrations spotlighting the town’s artistic tenor. This summer, Heartwood Gallery will participate in the fun with two meet-the-artist events. On July 13, the venue will welcome local potter Robin Kirby. According to Kirby’s artist’s statement, she uses stoneware clay to create vessels that are stunningly utilitarian. “I intend each piece to be functional in your life and take great care to ensure every detail is thought through while maintaining my artistic vision, from the size of a handle to the curve of the lip on a mug,” Kirby writes. On August 10, Heartwood will host Jane Voorhees of Asheville. Using watercolor and gouache, Voorhees captures the “essence and mood” of the mountains she calls home and the North Carolina coast where she spent her formative years. “The combination of these two mediums can provide a versatile palette for expressing the nuances of natural landscapes,” Voorhees tells Asheville Made. Both meet-the-artist events run from 4-6pm.