Exciting New Venue Opens in Asheville: Third Room
Asheville is buzzing with energy and creativity, thanks to the recent opening of Third Room, a stunning new venue that blends immersive art with music. Located on Wall Street, this innovative space is the brainchild of two passionate locals, Whitney Wolf and Jack Duvall, who worked tirelessly to bring their vision to life, despite facing challenges from the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene.
A Vision in the Midst of Chaos
Opening a new venue is no small feat, and for Whitney and Jack, the journey has been particularly challenging. Just weeks before their grand opening in mid-November, they were dealing with personal property damage from the hurricane. Yet, that didn’t stop them. They pulled grueling 22-hour shifts to ensure that Third Room would be ready for its debut. Their dedication and hard work are clearly visible in every corner of the space, as it reflects their dream of creating a unique haven for artistic expression.
An Artistic Wonderland
Upon entering Third Room, you’re greeted by an eclectic mix of art styles. The venue doubles as an art gallery, featuring an impressive array of cycling digital art displayed on giant 65-inch screens alongside traditional artwork. Currently showcasing the “un/natural worlds” exhibit, visitors can enjoy stunning pieces by local talent like Ryan O’Sullivan and artists from Art Garden studio, including Annie Kyla Bennett and Jack Henry.
Immersive Music Experience
The main event space is nothing short of spectacular. It transforms into an immersive installation where art and music are intertwined. More than 15 projectors hang from the ceiling, creating a captivating atmosphere as they display phenomenal projection-mapped art onto the walls. As artists perform on stage, Jack expertly curates visuals to enhance the sound, ensuring a complete sensory experience.
The centerpiece of this innovative space is a striking sculpture of a face, created by Whitney, which also serves as a canvas for the projection mapping art. The combination of visual and auditory stimulation creates an unforgettable experience for attendees.
Local Talent and Big Names
Third Room isn’t just a gallery; it’s also a vibrant musical venue. The founders have invited several local artists to hold residencies, ensuring that the stage remains a platform for homegrown talent. On our recent visit, we caught a stellar performance from the local band NOLZ, who took to the stage for their weekly show “Translating.” This captivating group brings new life to popular dance music through mesmerizing jazz renditions.
Beyond local acts, Third Room is also gearing up for performances by renowned artists in the electronic music scene. Anticipation is building for a three-night run with the celebrated band Papadosio, promising an exhilarating experience for fans.
Support and Community
Operating hours for the gallery are Friday through Sunday, from 12 to 4 p.m., providing ample opportunity for art lovers to explore the current exhibit. But that’s not all – Third Room is also committed to giving back to the community. A portion of ticket sales is being donated to the relief efforts for those affected by Helene, demonstrating the founders’ dedication not only to the arts but to helping their community heal.
So whether you’re an art lover, a music enthusiast, or simply looking for a fresh experience in Asheville, make sure to check out Third Room. With its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to local artistry, it is sure to become a beloved spot in the city.
