Vacation in Asheville For Artists

Asheville, North Carolina has long been known for its creative and artistic community, but now more than ever this beautiful and welcoming mountain town has become famous as an artistic Mecca of the southeast. From the amazing architecture of the magnificent downtown buildings and the rich artistic history of the world famous Biltmore Estate, to the thriving and newly re-invigorated River Arts District and the up and coming creative community of West Asheville. Asheville, North Carolina is definitely one of the countries new arts and crafts capitals.



From the fine arts and sculpture, to folk arts and crafts, to music and dance, Asheville boasts one of the most eclectic and diverse creative cultures anywhere in the world. Traditional Appalachian folk artists working in mediums such as rustic furniture, hand thrown pottery and quilting coexist perfectly beside newer experimental mediums such as film, photography and sculpture. The music scene has exploded and boasts some of the most talented up and coming artists performing such diverse styles of music. On any given night in this lovely Appalachian mountain town, you can experience a traditional bluegrass jam session, then hear exciting world fusion music and then finish off your evening with experimental electronic or punk rock. Asheville is diverse to say the least, and that is reflected in all the different forms of art happening in this city.



Taking a vacation in Asheville to experience some of the wonderful and eclectic art is something everyone should do at least once. The amazing downtown area is full of boutiques that offer locally handmade arts and crafts, and galleries of every style and taste line the streets and avenues of this diverse and welcoming community. There is good reason why Asheville, North Carolina has long been known for its rich artistic and creative history.



When planning a trip to the beautiful and wonderful city of Asheville, North Carolina, there are many, many options available for where to stay. The traditional route of renting a hotel room is not always the most exciting, and there are better ways to truly experience the culture of WNC and the Appalachian region. One of the best ways to truly get a feel for the southern hospitality on an artistic Asheville holiday is to stay in one of the cities many bed and breakfasts. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, or doing a longer stay in this lovely and enchanting mountain town, staying in a traditional and rustic bed and breakfast will give you the genuine experience.



If a more private situation is desired, or you are traveling with a larger group of friends of your whole family, perhaps the way to go is a cottage rental. Renting your own private cottage in the beautiful mountains of Appalachia is a great way to get a feel for what it is really like to live in the Asheville area. Be cautious, however, for the longer you stay in this amazing little town, the harder it is to leave, which is why so many people are relocating to Asheville from all over the country and all over the world.



Asheville, North Carolina is one of the most culturally diverse and welcoming places in the world, and taking a vacation in Asheville, North Carolina will allow anyone who is an appreciator of the arts to have a wonderful and exciting adventure in one of the countries most beautiful and wonderful areas.

Jack Moe has over one million words in print in online journals, web magazines and traditional magazine and newspaper publications. He has a Masters in Journalism.

http://www.vacationinasheville.com/

Put Your Feet Up in a Gatlinburg Vacation Rental

Easterners might know it well, westerners might never have heard of it, but the fact of the matter is that Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a thriving tourist destination and the gateway for The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you've been longing for a little history and a lot of untamed wilderness, consider making this region the site of your next vacation.

Gatlinburg is by no means a bustling metropolis, but it does have enough going on to keep millions of people busy all year. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has the highest number of visitors of any other national park, so what would be a sleepy little village has stepped up to become a welcoming town with a big personality and a full calendar of events.

Known for its healthy arts community, seasonal festivals, and rare, woodsy beauty, Gatlinburg is also home to an array of vacation homes that will keep you well-rested and comfortable during your stay here. A luxury mountain chalet ideally located between the park and the goings on of the city will serve as the perfect home base for all your activities. Having a fully-equipped kitchen will prove indispensable when it comes to preparing quick, pre-hike power breakfasts, and the cozy den and entertainment center will be the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day.

Whether you like to spread out during vacations or use the opportunity for true family togetherness, cabins and condos exist of all size and level of extravagance. Go rustic by choosing a small wooden cottage, or live like a king for a few days. Whatever your style of traveling, you'll find something to please you and your traveling companions.

The Great Smoky Mountains that you see through your window will likely tempt you to discover your inner explorer. The dense foliage could make you forget what the modern world looks like, and as you take a guided tour or picnic near a cool stream, you'll be glad you took the time to travel here. Tennessee is not known for its glamour or hubbub, but take this as a good thing. Steal a minute to enjoy the silence of the trees, and rediscover the feeling of true relaxation.

Exploring the Smokies could occupy a few days, but don't forget that Gatlinburg has shopping, dining, and all sorts of amusements as well. Let the natural landscape serve as a backdrop for buying some pottery made by an independent artisan, or grab something that floats and participate in the River Raft Regatta. Bike the Cades Cove Loop for a little exercise, and then take a load off at a musical production celebrating a few local traditions.

Taking in all of these activities will make you happy that there are so many lodging options nearby, as returning to your private bungalow after a day spent hiking, golfing, or people-watching will leave you spent. This hasn't been your average vacation, so it makes sense that you're staying in a unique, almost personalized, place.

The authentic ambiance of your log hideaway is a getaway in itself, and seems a far cry from the crowds and traffic that you're used to hearing outside your window. The local art that decorates the walls, the extra thick mattresses, and the wrap around balcony will all melt together into an overwhelming sense of well-being, so break away from your usual vacation habits and open yourself up to new possibilities.

HomeAway.com is the place to go for all your vacation rental needs. Visit today to start exploring the possibilities that will make your next trip the best ever.

Visit Gatlinburg for a journey into America's hidden splendor, and go online to find the perfect Gatlinburg Vacation Rental to complement this break away from convention.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caitlin_Moore

Traveling in the Asheville Area

Asheville, NC offers a wonderful vacation experience for just about any type of traveler. A person from any walk of life or background will find a lot of enjoyable things to see and do, from the incredibly diverse selection of local restaurants, pubs and nightclubs to the vast array of art galleries, quaint little boutiques who offer hand made goods from local artisans or coffee shops that line the friendly streets and avenues.



Outdoor adventures abound in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Hiking trails line the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway and lead to breathtaking mountain vistas. Rivers and river sports are as plentiful as anyone could hope for in this region from swimming and fishing to kayaking and rafting. Mountain hiking adventures and challenges to all levels of rock climbers from novice to advanced can be found all over the Appalachian Mountain area. Horse lovers will feel right at home with miles and miles of beautiful trails to explore and fellow horse lovers everywhere to connect with.



Artists will find a multitude of attractive things to do and see in Asheville. The Appalachian Mountains have long been known as home to some of the world's best professional folk art and craftspeople. From the architecture of the buildings in charming downtown Asheville to the tiny little gems of craft shops that line the country lanes in the surrounding counties, the Asheville area is thick with creative energy. The new breed of artists making a name leaving their mark on the area can also be found here. From pottery to metal sculpture work to fashion and clothing, local artists are flocking here to become part of a thriving creative and supportive community of artists and craftspeople.



Anyone who finds themselves drawn to the alternative healing arts will find a warm welcome in Asheville these days, as the community of professional alternative health practitioners steadily grows. Massage therapists, energy workers and healers of every stripe are taking up residence in this area, making for a wonderful community of health care available from traditional to alternative and everything in between.



The climate in the Asheville area is wonderful and changes with all the seasons. Winter, spring, summer and autumn are all represented in the changing of the seasons, yet the climate is milder than many places in the northern parts of the country. Autumn is particularly pleasant with the mild weather and brilliant display of changing leaves painting the mountainsides in lovely hues.



There are many options for lodging in Asheville and accommodations in Asheville available to any who visit Asheville. Renting a house as a vacation rental is a great option for a longer stay in the area, and many beautiful rentals are available in different areas of the region. Another option is a cottage rental, choosing s lovely and quaint mountain getaway or family retreat. Weekend getaways are a perfect choice for mountain cabin rentals or scenic cottage rentals.



Many, many options await the traveler or tourist who selects a vacation in Asheville, NC. However you choose to stay and whatever you choose to do while you are there, Asheville, North Carolina is a perfect vacation destination for anyone. This historic mountain city is fast becoming known for its diverse population, progressive artistic culture and traditional southern hospitality. Come see for yourself why Asheville, NC is on everyone's top ten places to visit.

Jack Moe has over one million words in print in online journals, web magazines and traditional magazine and newspaper publications. He has a Masters in Journalism.
http://jackmoe.blogspot.com/
http://www.vacationinasheville.com/

The "Hot" New Collectibles

A few months ago I wrote an article named "Signed vs. Unsigned -

Buying Art, Pottery and Collectibles". The basic premise of the

article was my own opinion about "Should you pay the price for

signed jewelry, art and collectibles, as opposed to buying what

you love, whether signed or unsigned?". Since writing that

article, I have read in one of my many collectible newsletters

and magazines that the "hot" new collectible trend is buying

unsigned and unknown artist and artisan items. I personally

think this is great! Not only does it help the collectibles

market, in several different areas such as unsigned jewelry,

studio art pottery and original artworks, who is to say what

that "unknown artist" or unsigned item will someday be worth?

Picasso received hardly any recognition while alive, but after

his death, we all know where the prices went on his works,

straight through the roof! If you are a collector, this is the

perfect time to start turning your buying trends towards

unsigned items, or as yet, unknown makers. The prices are much

lower than the normal collectible names, as well as the fact

that no matter what market you are buying in - BUY WHAT YOU

LOVE! This way, you don't end up spending a fortune on an item

that in five years may not even be considered a good collectible

investment. Remember the "Beanie Baby"ฉ craze? Well, now there

are tons of folks out there with mountains of "beanies" that

they may have paid a small fortune for, and I sure hope they

love them because that market is pretty much dead! The

difference between paying $150.00 for a Beanie Babyฉ during the

insanity of the craze feels much worse when the bottom drops out

of the market, than spending $150.00 for a couple of beautiful

art pottery bowls or vases, especially if you love the look of

the items anyway. When you look at the items that you purchased,

ones that could possibly become not only valuable collectibles

based on the development of the artist during their creating

lifetime or at the very least, loved heirlooms that are passed

on in a family, this all begins to make a lot of sense. If you

buy what appeals to you, you can never go wrong. It is my

philosophy to by what is aesthetically and artistically

appealing to me, is unique, and I could care less whether the

artist or maker is "known and listed" or not! Five years from

now, I will not be crying over my purchase and the money I

spent, I will still be loving the item as much when I purchased

it, if not more! If it goes up in value, so much the better.

That is just a wonderful side fact that doesn't even enter my

mind at the time of purchase. I buy because I like what I see,

hear, feel, etc. Perhaps this is why so many are turning to the

unsigned and unmarked items, without quite as much emphasis on

the signatures or hallmarks. Sure it's nice to own a full parure

of Miriam Haskell jewelry. But, I am more content with an

unsigned, unique sterling pin for a fraction of the price, that

I can actually wear and show off for a fraction of the price I

would have paid for the Haskell name. Of course, Haskell jewelry

is and always will be a hot collectible in the jewelry market,

but consider this. The majority of people collect her items

because of the artistic appeal, unique designs and quality of

the piece. Shouldn't we judge all items we consider purchasing

by those same rules, no matter who made them? I think so. I also

feel that in the long run, as time goes by, those purchases made

with the heart and the eyes will be the ones that we grow to

love the most. Sure, Haskell jewelry is a great collectible,

sure to increase in value as time goes by. But who is to say

that that little pottery vase made with great form and design by

a student in an art pottery studio or class will not someday be

worth a small fortune? Plus, as it increases in value, if it

does, you will have not paid a small fortune for it, you have

admired and loved it since you bought it, and your family may

now already arguing over who gets it one of these days when you

go to that great auction in the sky, regardless of the market

value! Items we acquire through life, if well loved and worn or

displayed with pride and love, develop a value all their own.

How do you think the collectibles market began? For instance, we

have in our family, a beautiful and very large ewer. For years

and years, it has been passed down from my grandmother, to my

mother, and now my sister and I are determined that this ewer

will never leave our family, if we can help it. Turns out that

this ewer is a Rookwood or Roseville, and most likely worth a

small fortune! Do you think that my Grandmother purchased it

because of the name? No, she bought it because it was pretty and

she loved the way it looked. Names meant nothing to her, she

just loved the look and feel of the pottery, and it has been on

constant display in our family, in one home or the other,

because of where it came from, not who made it! To us it is

priceless, no amount of money could ever get it away from us. To

the collector, it has a set price, although it may be a large

price, but that is no matter to us. We will never sell it

because of the memories it holds. I always get a little giggle

(not to offend anyone, it's just my strange sense of humor...)

when a dealer lists something as "An important piece of "such

and such"". Aren't they all important in one way or another?

They were important to the person that made them, or designed

them, or cast them, or threw the clay, I don't care if it was a

10 year old child in pottery class, or a ewer like the one in

our family. I guess what I am trying to say is that all items

have value, from one viewpoint or the other, and we shouldn't be

so caught up in the "name game". Broaden your horizons on your

next browsing trip and always remember that "one man's trash is

another man's treasure"!

Try Kiva Ladders To Create Unique Mountain Interior Design

Kiva ladders or Wooden Indian log ladders look incredible in ranch style homes when combined with other southwestern home decorating accessories. While traveling through the southwestern states you will certainly notice that wooden log ladders have become the most recognizable symbols of American Indian style artwork, used for beautiful, rustic and southwestern style interior design. Kiva ladders are hand made wooden ladders usually created from pine poles that have been scraped by hand. The ladder rungs are then attached to the two long poles with rawhide lacing. The ladder is smaller at the top than it is at the base, giving it a dimension of height.



One interesting way to create the rustic look and feel in your room, without actually decorating with pueblo designs, is to use the same simple, pueblo ladder or kiva wood ladder. The ladders will add a subtle but unmistakable pueblo or rustic look in the room. A kiva ladder also creates a terrific way to showcase some of your most treasured southwest rugs or Indian blankets. Other decorating accessories that look great with wood ladders are Mexican style blankets, American Indian pottery and drums, wooden dough bowls and primitive style lamps with rawhide lamp shades. Ladders can also be used to draw attention to special designs you may like such as the kokopelli or other village designs. Using the kiva ladder to display trinkets will bring to life the Native American style in your home, add beautiful colors, and make the ladder functional in your home decor.



There is something intriguing about the grouping together of dwellings made of traditional style adobe bricks with their kiva ladders on the roofs. This image has become an icon in Native interior design and style. Many homes in the southwest are built to imitate the style of the early pueblos, and the kiva ladder is always used. Pueblo designs are found on rugs, dolls, pottery, paintings, art, and rustic furnishings. And, the rustic kiva ladders have become popular in cabins, log homes and also anywhere people like primitive or country design style.



Use some creativity when decorating with kiva ladders. There is no limitation to how rustic ladders can be used. You can create a unique display or book shelf by using two ladders together and connecting them with boards in the middle. You probably already have some Native style throws you can use and put a small table beside it or a Native Indian drum and you will have created a unique and useful design.



A lot people also like to use kiva ladders to hang Indian throw blankets to cover up with during those brisk winter evenings. You might use kiva ladders for hanging bed blankets or quilts in your guest rooms when not needed. You can use kiva style Indian ladders in every room, in the same aspect or similarly without it looking overly done. So, if you want a truly outstanding rustic style element to use in your home decorating, think about using rustic wooden kiva ladders.

Six Styles of Pottery For Southwest Decor

Native American pottery is unique in that every tribe, Hopi, Navajo, Cherokee, Apache, and so on leaves a part of its heritage in the colors, patterns, and designs used. Therefore, to enhance your Southwest decor, all you need to do is look at the various options and choose what fits your needs. Of course, some people will mix and match pottery from several tribes for a more interesting display. Regardless, learning about some of the primary options is exciting, helping you when it comes time to buy.



Genuine Native American pottery is made by hand without the aid of a potter's wheel. While buying authentic pottery would be more expensive and some types more difficult to find, you can purchase gorgeous pieces from numerous brick and mortar companies, as well as online. However, if you have time to check around, you will probably find pottery that would work with your southwest decor with beauty and unique authenticity.



We wanted to provide you with information about six types of pottery that you might consider for your Southwest decor.



1. Hand-Coiled - This type of pottery was made with a very interesting method called coil and pinch. The base of the pottery piece began as a slab of clay, on which coils were added to create strength and durability. After the first coiled row, excess clay was trimmed and the outside edge formed. Row-by-row, the pottery piece was constructed, ending up as a gorgeous piece of Native American art. Typically, smaller pieces of pottery have 3/8 to 1-inch coils while the larger pieces were made with coils of 3/4 to 1 1/2-inches.



2. Hopi - Hopi Indians are known for making gorgeous pottery creations, also called Pueblo Pottery. Prior to being fired, the cream-colored clay was polished and then painted using dyes made from minerals and vegetables. The creator then added a design like a Pueblo village, kiva ladder, parrot, lightening or road runner depending on personal choice. Once fired outside, the pottery was packed in dry sheep manure. To compliment the Southwest decor, Hopi pottery is a favorite.



3. Horsehair Pottery - This type of pottery is another option that looks amazing in a home with Southwest decor. This pottery was created by Native American Navajo Indians, but also, many other tribes. Added to the surface of the pottery are strands of hair taken from a horse's mane and tail. This design is unlike any other and because of the technique: each pottery piece comes out as a one-of-a-kind creation.



4. Wedding Vase - Although pottery such as this was initially made for marriage ceremonies, this makes a great addition to a home with Southwest decor. The vase is rustic yet elegant. Designed with two spouts, one for the bride and the other for the groom, the spouts come together in one vase symbolizing two people becoming one.



5. Navajo - Another one of the Native American Indian tribes known for creating and designing pottery are the Navajos. In fact, pottery was a vital part of existence of these people. Using a pit for firing and an open fire, the pottery pieces were fired one at a time for hours. Prior to the pottery cooling, hot melted pinion tree pitch was carefully applied. Interestingly, this type of pottery was usually not decorated because its use was utilitarian, for holding water, cooking, and dishes for eating. However, some of the newer pieces reflect southwest decor with traditional symbols of the Navajo people.



6. Casas Grandes - This type of southwest decor pottery known as Mata Ortiz Pottery, is created using natural clay from the mountains near the Mexican village of Mata Ortiz. The design and color of this rustic pottery was done with natural pigments made of roots and minerals, applied using human hair brushes. Each piece of pottery was made by skilled artisans, all by hand.

Get "The Rustic Southwest Decorating Guide" a popular free download with room by room tips and ideas to help you. You can also get discount coupons and special offers on southwest decor from Mission Del Rey. http://www.missiondelrey.com

Pottery: Functionality Verses Art

I have been involved in pottery now for about four years. I first became interested, when in my job; I travel North Carolina from the Coast to the Mountains and one day I happened to stop in at a pottery shop. I was taken away with pottery, as soon as I saw the many forms from cups to jugs. From that time on, I started stopping in at any shop that I ran across, in my travels. It was then, that I was hooked.

While being new to pottery, I saw it as art. Some of the first pieces I purchased were done so to decorate my home and as gifts for my wife. My wife, who is an avid collector of anything with North Carolina Lighthouses, was the reason for my very first purchase of pottery. I purchased a pie plate that had a lighthouse painted on it. I only saw it as art and not as functional. And most of the pieces I purchased afterward were also purchased as decorative pieces for our home. I looked at pottery as art.
As my interest in pottery grew I wanted to learn how to make pottery on my own. On one of my trips I visited a local pottery in Sanford, North Carolina, known as, "The Cole Pottery". While there, Neola Cole let me have a try at the wheel and I was hooked.

It was not long that I purchased a wheel and began practicing at home. I am by no means a professional yet, but I am on my way. And in doing so, I have also got my youngest son hooked. Though only starting at seven and been turning for about a year, he is well on his way to becoming an excellent turner.

Since getting hooked on pottery, I have met many potters and continue to learn from each of them. But one thing that has truly changed is my thoughts on the art of pottery. I have since come to the conclusion that pottery is truly art, but not just art, but art to be used. So not only do I use hand made cups, but also bowls and many other pieces as well.
I do not know your opinion of pottery. If you only see it as art, be forewarned, it is art meant to be used. And be warned, once you purchase your first piece, you may get hooked. Also don't be surprised if you get the pottery bug and begin playing in clay.

If you are interested in learning how to make pottery visit Wayne's web site http://www.TheSuccessfulPotter.com and get free tips on turning pottery.