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Maker’s March Brings Community Creativity to Asheville

Participants engaging in art workshops during Maker's March in Asheville

News Summary

Maker’s March in Asheville offers a month-long celebration of local arts and creativity, featuring workshops, demonstrations, and community engagement. Hosted by the Merchants of Downtown Asheville (MODA), the initiative provides opportunities for hands-on experiences, including gel plate printing and a pizza-making workshop. As the community recovers from recent storms, this event aims to raise awareness and support local artists and businesses. Join in the fun and explore Asheville’s vibrant arts scene through various engaging events.

Maker’s March Brings Creativity and Community to Downtown Asheville

Asheville is buzzing with excitement as the Merchants of Downtown Asheville (MODA) prepare to launch an incredible month-long celebration known as Maker’s March. This initiative is all about bringing together talented local artists and offering the community a chance to dive into a variety of fun and engaging workshops and events that are either free or come at a low cost.

A Community Focus on Arts and Retail

In the wake of the recent storms that affected our beloved downtown, MODA has stepped up, determined to support local arts and retail businesses. By focusing on community engagement and providing these creative opportunities, they are helping to breathe new life into the area. Everyone is encouraged to join in and explore the many different crafts and skills being shared.

Hands-On Experiences Await

For those eager to participate, it’s important to sign up early since spaces for the workshops are limited! One of the highlights kicking off Maker’s March is a gel plate printing demonstration led by the talented artist Betsy Kendrick on March 2. This is a fantastic chance to learn about a unique art form that’s sure to spark your creativity!

But that’s just the beginning! The following weekend features a whimsical lantern crafting workshop hosted by the talented Street Creature Puppet Collective. This hands-on experience is ideal for anyone looking to tap into their crafty side and make something beautiful.

Delicious Fun with a “Make Your Own Pizza” Workshop

On March 16, food lovers will want to take note of the exciting “Make Your Own Pizza” workshop led by Manicomio and well-known Asheville food enthusiast Stu Helm. This deliciously exciting event aligns perfectly with Helm’s WNC Pizza Week celebration, which runs for a full week throughout the city. Who wouldn’t want to master the art of pizza-making alongside other local foodies?

A Home for Printmaking Enthusiasts

One of the central hubs for creativity during Maker’s March will be the Asheville Print Studio + Gallery. Since its opening in 2019, this vibrant space has seen three relocations and is now proud to occupy its most spacious environment yet at Riverview Station. Owner Denise Markbreit has a passion for printmaking and is dedicated to sharing that with the community.

Markbreit provides various classes and demonstrations that cater primarily to adult learners, ensuring that everyone can find something to inspire them. Additionally, guest artists regularly come in to share their expertise, enriching the offerings even further.

Eco-Friendly Practices and Monthly Memberships

What’s more, the Asheville Print Studio is committed to eco-friendly practices. They utilize soy-based, solvent-free inks and low-VOC cleaners to minimize their environmental impact. For those interested in exploring printmaking on their own, they also offer monthly membership options that grant access to studio equipment.

Exciting Exhibits and Events to Look Forward To

Don’t miss out on the upcoming exhibits at the studio, including the captivating “Birds, Bees, Bears, and Blue Ridge Mountains,” as well as “May Munchies,” which focuses on food-inspired prints. There’s truly something for everyone!

The Asheville Print Studio is more than just a place for art; it aims to serve as a community hub where people from all walks of life can come together. They regularly host an array of creative workshops, community group meetings, and even corporate team-building retreats. With themed exhibits showcasing both local and national artists, this space is the perfect place to discover and appreciate the vibrant arts scene that Asheville has to offer.

So gather your friends, unleash your creativity, and join in the fun during Maker’s March—a month packed with exciting opportunities for learning, making, and connecting in the heart of Asheville!