The Big Crafty, July 6-7

Jess Wambles, aka Aunty Skelator, doesn’t stay in one artistic lane. Instead, the Sylva-based folk crafter metaphorically rolls down her windows, turns the radio to full blast, and joyfully swerves from one medium to the next — traffic laws be damned. But what results is no accident. “When people see my work,” says Wambles, “I want them to feel like their eyeballs are unwrapping a present or that they have stumbled upon an unusual, magical little world and may want to have a look around for a bit.” Her quirky intentions have yielded a portfolio that ranges from ceramic pickles with scarlet-red lips and blushy cheeks to embroidered monsters announcing their general malaise. This July, Wambles will bring her otherworldly wares to The Big Crafty, a twice-yearly bazaar of handmade goods. First hosted by Brandy Bourne and Justin Rabuck in 2008, the event has grown into a beloved fixture of Asheville’s arts scene. “It’s always astonishing how rich this area is with artistic talent — the well never seems to run dry,” says Rabuck. “The creative community is bright and energetic, and we’re so honored to showcase it and to be a part of its warm and collaborative spirit.” This year’s iteration happens July 6-7. Admission is $10 on Saturday and free on Sunday.