Asheville hobby artist Pam Robbins recently opened Purple Crayon, a self-described “shared play space for women hobby artists.” Located near UNC Asheville, the space is meant to provide an affordable option for women to explore art in community.
Robbins says that while many Purple Crayon members have their own home studio, access to a communal art space is often harder to come by. “They usually don’t have the space to invite friends to play with them in their studio,” she explains. “It’s hard to squeeze two easels, two sewing machines, or two tables into a room, even if it’s fairly large.”
The Purple Crayon space features multiple “creation stations” for artists in a shared room, as well as a lounge area and break room. Professional artists can also rent part of the studio to teach classes. Members receive free or discounted access to workshops on crafts such as mosaic coasters, needle felted Easter eggs, and wirework necklaces.
Prospective members can visit Purple Crayon on the second Saturday of every month during an open house, 2–4pm. Robbins also offers private tours by appointment.
Purple Crayon, 9 Old Burnsville Hill Road, Asheville. Call 828-771-6148 or visit www.purplecrayonavl.com for more info.