Asheville’s Winter of Creativity at BMCM + AC

News Summary

As winter approaches, the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center in Asheville has unveiled an exciting schedule filled with artistic workshops and concerts. Starting January 11 with a free fiber and weaving workshop, followed by a unique concert series featuring innovative musical performances, the BMCM + AC aims to keep the creative spirit alive during the colder months. The museum will also release publications exploring the rich history of weaving and agriculture at the college, further celebrating its artistic legacy.

Asheville Welcomes a Winter of Creativity at the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center

As the frost settles in — Asheville is set to heat up with a fantastic winter lineup at the Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center (BMCM + AC). This beloved hub of creativity has just unveiled its schedule for the winter, offering a treasure trove of artistic workshops and concerts that will surely keep spirits high during the colder months.

Kickoff with Fiber and Weaving Workshop

The excitement begins on Saturday, January 11, at 1 p.m. with an engaging fiber and weaving workshop, led by BMCM + AC’s very own communications coordinator, Maya Rosenbaum. This workshop promises to be the first in an exciting series dubbed ELEMENTS OF BMC. The series is designed to explore the fundamental practices of creativity that were celebrated at Black Mountain College.

If you are worried about feeling out of your depth, don’t be! This workshop is completely free, open to all ages, and suitable for every skill level. No need to sign up beforehand; just show up and get your hands moving! Even better, all materials will be provided, so just bring your enthusiasm and creativity!

Experience the Magic of Music

Yarn/Wire will bring their dynamic performance to the BMCM + AC. The concert will center around two unique pieces: “Bayou-borne, for Pauline” by Annea Lockwood, and a collaborative creation with composer Katherine Young titled “BIOMES 6.1”.

This concert will push the boundaries of musical experience by incorporating actual bayou maps to guide musical improvisation! It’s an innovative way to intertwine ecology and art, promising an evening of not just sound, but storytelling through music.

More Musical Delights Ahead

Just when you thought it couldn’t get better, on Wednesday, February 12, at 7 p.m., the wind and string quartet Hub New Music will grace the stage with newly composed works by Yaz Lancaster. The concert will also feature compositions from noteworthy artists such as Angélica Negrón and Tyshawn Sorey. Both concerts are ticketed, but fear not — pass holders will enjoy discounted prices as will students, making this an affordable outing for all!

Explore the History of Weaving and Farming

The BMCM + AC isn’t just about the present; it’s also a place for reflection and learning about the past. The announcement of the winter schedule comes with news of an exciting publication titled “Weaving at Black Mountain College”. This new book, authored by Michael Beggs and Julie J. Thomson, examines the weaving program that flourished at Black Mountain College, starting under the tutelage of the legendary Anni Albers and her husband, Josef Albers, back in 1933.

Through this book, readers can dive deep into the impact that the weaving arts had at the college and also learn about artists who carry forward the legacy and teachings of Albers today.

Looking Ahead to Farming History

Additionally, David Silver’s forthcoming book, “The Farm at Black Mountain College”, expected in 2024, will unfold tales about the college’s agricultural endeavors and the challenges it faced from 1933 to 1957. This is an opportunity to peek into how education, agriculture, and creativity intertwined during this unique period.

A Vibrant Celebration of Creativity

Throughout the winter, the BMCM + AC is continuing its valuable mission to illuminate the significant contributions of artists and educators associated with Black Mountain College. With a schedule packed full of workshops and concerts, there’s no excuse to miss out on such a vibrant celebration of creativity right in the heart of Asheville!

Don’t forget, tickets for the concerts can be purchased at BlackMountainCollege.org, or you can visit the museum located at 120 College Street in lovely Asheville. This winter promises to be one filled with artistic exploration and community connection — don’t miss it!