Calendar of Events
Upcoming events and things to do in Asheville, NC. Below is a list of events for festivals, concerts, art exhibitions, group meetups and more.
Interested in adding an event to our calendar? Please click the green “Post Your Event” button below.
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
From the moment he enters a room, it becomes clear that Jay Allen is here to tell his story. The tattoo-clad singer/songwriter has his heart inked on his sleeve, so to speak, and sings with conviction onstage that stems from the lessons his parents taught him and the music he heard around the house. Knowing the stage was the only place he wanted to be, and so Jay packed his bags and moved to Nashville. Working day and night, Jay has achieved major milestones in the course of the past few years: he’s signed a publishing and development deal with Sony/ATV publishing, enlisted management team Edge Artist Management and released a five-song EP, which produced his first hit single Sounds Good To Me dubbed a Highway Find on SiriusXM’s The Highway. The budding musician continued to perform and write, honing his craft with the likes of ACM-nominated songwriter Phil Barton and Lindsay Rimes, both credited as co-writers on his debut single. Born and raised in rural Iowa, Jay discovered his love of performing one Sunday amidst the congregation of his church, Jay initially attempted singing harmonies with the ladies, much to the chagrin of his pastor. Proving his chops, he was invited to sing solo the following Sunday and thus, a passion was born: “There’s nothing like being on the stage. When the lights come up and the band starts playing and I get behind that mic , I’m alive. To spending every day writing, then see your songs come to life on a record, then see people laughing and dancing along, it’s heaven on earth.”
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Introduction To The Potter’s Wheel
Alyssa Ruberto and Halima Flynt
Saturdays 10am-12:30pm
January 12- March 2
Get ready to throw! This 8-week beginner’s course is designed to teach new potters the fundamentals of wheel-throwing, trimming, and glazing to make a variety of complete, food-safe and functional wares. By the end of this course, students will be able to confidently make pottery in any studio setting. Seasoned beginners are also encouraged to try new techniques to reach an intermediate level.
Level: Beginner and Seasoned Beginner
Tuition: $295 + $45 Lab Fee
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Mardi Gras Masquerade Workshop
One-Day Workshop For Adults & Kids
Paige Janeri
Sunday, February 24
10am-4pm
Come enjoy a day in the studio full of family, fun, and artistic expression! “Mardi Gras Masquerade” is a class for children and their guardians to explore, express, and celebrate your unique personalities. Spending time in the studio will strengthen and deepen relationships through teamwork and awareness of each other’s best qualities. Feel good about reflecting, creating, and working together, while also being silly and having a good time! The finished product will represent a piece of yourself inspired by your own ideas and supported by family and friends. We encourage you all to dress up wacky and festive for this exciting day! As they say in New Orleans, “Laissez les bon temps rouler!” Let the good times roll! Light refreshments provided.
Level: All Levels, Beginners Welcome
Tuition: $90 per child, Parent/Guardian Free
Jack of the Wood : Sunday-Irish Session
Sundays
1 till who knows when?
Traditional Irish music is kept alive at Jack of the Wood with our unplugged Sunday session.
Jack of the Wood
95 Patton ave
Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 252.5445
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Cotton Kandy, purveyor of deep, infectious dance music and a feel-good vibes. Has played at Full Moon Gatherings, The Happenings, Zodiac Parties, regional and non-regional burns like Ignite, Alchemy, and Love Burn. Genres including melodic ,deep ,dirty house.
Check her music out here:
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Post Firing Sculpture Repair
Molly Morning-glory & Mac McCusker
Tuesdays 10:30am-1pm
January 8- February 26
Have broken projects piling up in your studio? Perhaps the piece you worked on for ages didn’t come out how you wanted? Join Molly Morning-glory and Mac McCusker to learn about cold finishing techniques and materials. Bring in your duds and we’ll help you make them beautiful! Sand blasting, epoxies, acrylic paint, spray enamel and more will be covered in this 8-week class. We will also create a sculpture or vessel to be bisque fired and finished without glazing, using shoe polish, patina, or furniture wax.
Level: Intermediate and Advanced
Tuition: $310 + $50 Lab Fee
You got Served! Handbuilt Tableware
Tyler-James Anderson
Tuesdays 6:30-9pm
January 8- February 26
In this class we will be focusing our efforts into creating beautiful plates, platters, and assorted dishes to liven up your serving game at home. Implementing plaster mold making and slab construction, we will be making both loose and refined forms that showcase surface design and fluidity. This class takes a fun, whimsical, and creative approach to forming and decorating, while providing students with solid fundamentals for their future handbuilding endeavors.
Level: All Levels
Tuition: $310 + $55 Lab Fee
The Open Jam at Noble Kava welcomes players of all kinds to come explore, push boundaries, step out of comfort zones, gain experience, and meet and play with musicians from Asheville and beyond. There are no genre restrictions, as long as it’s not too loud for the room. All genders and all peoples are welcome (also well behaved animals are welcome, too).
We provide full backline–drum kit, amps, piano, keys, and PA with mics/inputs. The jam is hosted by the house band, the Kavalactones, who play for the first half hour or so, and then the jam opens up. There’s no list. Just show up and let us know you want to play. We recommend bringing your own instrument (guitar, bass, musical saw, ect.), unless you play keys, or sticks if you play kit.
This is a weekly opportunity for experienced musicians to get together, talk, and share ideas in a living room-like setting. No alcohol is served, but players are invited to try kava at the two-fer-one rate, and kavalactone elixir shots are $1 off anytime the Kavalactones are playing at the bar. Bula!
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Bowled Over: How to Create Visual Interest on Simple Forms
Laurie Caffery Harris
Wednesdays 6:30-9pm
January 9- February 27
Bowls are often overlooked by potters because they are such a simple form, but they have so much potential! In this intermediate level class, we will explore bowls of all sizes and shapes on the potter’s wheel to create forms that reflect your unique style. We will also discuss and practice surface design through mishima (slip inlay), painting, and sgraffito carving. By the end of the session we will have made pieces that are not only visually interesting, but accurately represent your personal style and sensibilities.
Level: Intermediate and Advanced
Tuition: $310 + $50 Lab Fee
Weekly Open Mic with Caleb Beissert! Sign up at 7:30 pm, Mic starts at 8 pm! All forms of entertainment welcome!! Come get a kava and enjoy the local talent
BULA!!
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Introduction To Sculpture
Mac McCusker
Thursdays, 11am-1:30pm
January 10- February 28
Ever wanted to try your hand at sculpting with clay? This introductory class will enable you to competently create small-scale sculptures of animals or people. Learn to build with slabs, coils, and solid clay sculpting to advance your ceramic skills or elevate the quality of your work! Using images and sketches as a reference, we will make several pieces in class using a combination of building techniques. This class is for all levels.
Level: All Levels
Tuition: $310 + $55 Lab Fee
Alternatives To Glaze
Cynthia Lee
Thursdays 3-5:30pm
January 10- February 28
Consider experimenting with some unorthodox surface treatments for a new look in your work. Using tiles, we will play with materials rolled on wet clay and cold surface techniques on bisque clay. Demonstrations and discussions will include applying these concepts to functional and sculptural work. Come with imagination, without reservations and a yearning for creative research!
Level: Intermediate
Tuition: $310 + $50 Lab Fee
Two exhibitions debut at Momentum Gallery’s Lexington Avenue location in downtown Asheville on Thursday, February 28 with an opening reception from 5-8pm.
Asheville, NC — Momentum Gallery opens two exhibitions, In the Landscape and Of the Landscape and Vernacular, built around environmental and southern themes respectively. The three-person exhibitions both debut at Momentum Gallery’s Lexington Avenue location in downtown Asheville on Thursday, February 28 with an opening reception from 5-8pm. The six featured artists will be in attendance and wine and refreshments will be served. All are welcome. These exhibitions continue at Momentum Gallery through April 27, 2019.
In the Landscape and Of the Landscape
Jennifer Bueno | Bryce Lafferty | William Henry Price
Three artists convey their wonderment with the natural world and allude to its unseen, inner workings. Through abstract expression, imaginative cross-sections, and works that depict satellite views of our planet, they take viewers on a journey of discovery and introspection. Dimensional blown glass and mixed media works, emotive paintings, and original drawings attempt to reveal the impermanent and transient nature of things as well as the consequence of Man’s presence in the landscape.
Vernacular
Phil Blank | David C. Robinson | Sasha Schilbrack-Cole
Narrative watercolors, original etchings, and ceramic sculpture by three artists reference subjects such as faith, race, and identity in the South.
Uncensored expression: anyone is invited to step up to share song, music, poetry, comedy, magic, stories, rants & raves, & other performances!
The most eclectic open mic around, in a welcoming gallery setting! 6 pm signup, perform 6:30-8:30 pm.
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Multi-instrumentalist, producer, and vocalist, Astoria sculpts sonics with both organic and synthetic sounds, birthing experimental pieces that bridge genres. The Asheville based artist explores trip hop, soul, sky wave, hip hop, pop, folk and ambient, and the project is always evolving to reflect new influences. Astoria has a voice and lyricism that evoke ethereal, colorful, and mystical worlds, while gracefully shifting into phonetic flows that have blunt, earthy, and soulful qualities as well. Their exploration of sonic arrangements creates distinct and enticing atmospheres, ranging from bright and vibrant to dark and bewitching.
Astoria’s passion and intention is to use sound to explore the subtle layers of our inner and outer experiences. To utilize music as an alchemical process that may help us discover more about ourselves through it’s unbridled expression, fascination, and experimentation.
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Introduction To The Potter’s Wheel
Alyssa Ruberto and Halima Flynt
Saturdays 10am-12:30pm
January 12- March 2
Get ready to throw! This 8-week beginner’s course is designed to teach new potters the fundamentals of wheel-throwing, trimming, and glazing to make a variety of complete, food-safe and functional wares. By the end of this course, students will be able to confidently make pottery in any studio setting. Seasoned beginners are also encouraged to try new techniques to reach an intermediate level.
Level: Beginner and Seasoned Beginner
Tuition: $295 + $45 Lab Fee
Matthew West, UNCA professor of Sculpture & Ceramics, explores the intersection of created environments with natural surroundings. His unique work includes hydrological principles & closed loop mechanical setups inspired by the French Broad Basin watershed. Exhibit runs through April 6.
Chris Cooper – guitars
Caleb Beissert – drums, percussion
Max Melner – keyboards, synths
Aaron Price – bass, synths, vox
***also sometimes with Rob McConnell (bass) and Jason Moore (sax)
Hometown: Asheville
About
Kavalactones, based in Asheville, NC, create a special blend of experimental drip noise using analog instruments, found objects, and expressionist vocals.
Biography
Little is known about the Kavalactones except that they appeared in 2013 at a strange little bar in Asheville, NC, and began expanding sonic realms with their own breed of experimental “drip noise.” The core members now consist of Caleb Beissert, Chris Cooper, Max Melner, Aaron Price, Rob McConnell, and Jason Moore with an ever-rotating cast of special guests.
An exploration of spontaneous music in context, Kavalactones play to the feeling in the room while building soundscapes that tell textured stories. Many of these “compositions” fall under the ancient genre of “drip noise,” while others contain futuristic elements of pirate jazz and space rock, such as pallasite and enstatite chondrite. Drawing from a lineage of art and design in the mountains around Asheville, NC, the band weaves ideas of chance, randomness, and the dictum of “more with less” to find just the right groove.
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.
Jack of the Wood : Sunday-Irish Session
Sundays
1 till who knows when?
Traditional Irish music is kept alive at Jack of the Wood with our unplugged Sunday session.
Jack of the Wood
95 Patton ave
Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 252.5445
Adding a Southeast destination for designer toy makers and collectors, *Assembly Required brings designer, bootleg and art toy artists from around the country, to present and sell their work.
Asheville’s premiere designer toy expo, *Assembly Required, is presented by Unboxing Asheville, Morgan’s Comic’s, 103.3 Asheville FM and Appalachian Pinball Museum. Focusing on this artistic movement, designer toys are a form of lowbrow pop art. These toy makers pull inspiration from a variety of subversive segments of culture, as well as subcultural elements, including (but not limited to) comics, tattooing, street art, and everything related to toys of the 60’s through the 80’s.
Echoing production methods of traditional toy manufacturers, designer toys are usually intended to be displayed as collectibles, rather than to be played with. Toy makers mediums range from resin to vinyl, from plastic to plush; with molding, and production techniques such as kitbash, sofubi and bootleg (recently coined ‘Artisanal Action Figure’, by New York Times writer, Rich Juzwiak [11/23/18]). (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/23/style/bootleg-toys-action-figures.html).
Juzwiak interviews such artists as the Sucklord and Killer Bootlegs, both of whom will be present at *Assembly Required.