At the westernmost reaches of North Carolina, amid the tree-covered mountains, the secluded, unincorporated community of Brasstown draws travelers and creatives from all across the state. Most come for the John C. Campbell Folk School, which offers an immersive retreat for aspiring artists to develop and hone their crafts during instructor-led courses covering everything from basketry and blacksmithing to woodworking and shoemaking. Known as a space where art and natural beauty collide, the school’s 270-acre setting can feel like the ends of the earth at times. But beyond the school, this remote corner of western North Carolina is rich with ways to fuel your sense of creativity. You just might need to hop behind the wheel and head out along U.S. Highway 64 to reach them.
Winston-Salem native Zak Foster started quilting in 2010, and he served as the first artist-in-residence at Olive’s Porch in spring 2021. Photography courtesy of ZAK FOSTER
This arm of the folk school, located in downtown Murphy, is dedicated to making Appalachian folk art accessible to the community. It hosts workshops for traditional craft, music, and dance; community events; and performances, and the space also includes an on-site shop filled with creations by area artists. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at quilting, basket weaving, or even food preservation methods, head to their website to learn about upcoming workshops and events.
27 Peachtree Street
Murphy, NC 28906
(828) 837-1885
olivesporch.org
Head to the Valley River Arts Gallery inside The Murphy Art Center to marvel at the works made by local artists. photograph by Tim Robison
This community-driven art space is maintained by the Valley River Arts Guild (VRAG), which hosts events and workshops tailored to creatives of all ages, from tote bag making to watercolor painting. The Murphy Art Center also includes a gallery with the work of VRAG members and other regional artists.
12 Peachtree Street
Murphy, NC 28906
(828) 360-3038
valleyriverarts.com
On Andrews Valley Rail Tours, groups pedal modified carts over railroad tracks that cross over the Valley River and pass through the hand-carved Valley River Tunnel. photograph by RYAN KARCHER PHOTOGRAPHY
Editor’s Note: Andrews Valley Rail Tour is closed for the season until May 1, 2024. Tours are available to book in advance on their website.
Board a rail bike and take in the sights while your rustic vehicle leads you over mountain streams and through a stony tunnel on the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Along this 10-mile ride, passengers are treated to views of the Blue Ridge landscape, from fields of mountain wildflowers to cows grazing in lush pastures. This seasonal rail tour operates from May through November.
345 Locust Street
Andrews, NC 28901
(828) 557-4021
andrewsvalleyrailtours.com
It’s almost hard not to feel inspired when you’re immersed within this scenic mountain landscape. This four-mile greenway through Murphy follows the Valley River and Hiwassee River. Use the RiverWalk as a launch point for your kayak or canoe, or simply set out on foot along the path that leads you through the historic town center, beginning behind the ball fields at Konehete Park and ending at the old L&N Depot.
228 Hilton Street | Trailhead at Konehete Park
Murphy, NC 28906
visitccnc.com
How do the students, instructors, and artists-in-residence seemingly tap into creative juices on demand? The network of trails traversing the campus might play a role in sparking some inspiration. Seven trails around Brasstown Creek and Little Brasstown Creek are lush with native plant life and more than 120 bird species. The Rivercane Walk, a favorite of Brasstown Carver Rick Carter, features carvings and installations that honor the area’s Cherokee heritage. (Click here to learn more about Rick Carter and the Brasstown Carvers.)
1 Folk School Road
Brasstown, NC 28902
(828) 837-2775
folkschool.org/folk-school-experience
It feels like you’ve entered a colorful kaleidoscope among the handmade textiles, wood furnishings, ceramics, carved figurines, yard ornaments, and handstitched dolls at the folk school’s shop. All of the pieces are handmade by local artists and showcase the talented craftsmanship of the area’s traditional and contemporary Appalachian folk art community.
1 Folk School Road
Brasstown, NC 28902
(828) 837-2775
craftshop.folkschool.org
One of Carter’s top recommendations for exploring the works of other artists, this gift shop and gallery space represents more than 200 regional artisans. The two-story showroom is a trove of handmade jewelry, pottery, an extensive quilt collection, and more handcrafted wares. Keep an eye out for the collection of fine antiques on the first floor.
36 East Main Street
Franklin, NC 28734
(828) 524-7766
Mark our words: Whether they nod to North Carolina or were penned by its residents, these notable, quotable passages remind us of the power of speech inspired by our state.
When one stream flows into another, the two chart a new course for the future — together.
When the weather outside is frightful, one chef serves loved ones dishes so delightful.
A historic Rose Bowl pitted Duke University against Oregon State in Durham. Then, in the dark days of World War II, those same football players — and a legendary coach — joined forces to fight for freedom.
