A New Chapter at Grovewood Village

Acclaimed American poet Robert Frost penned words that captured the spirit of everyday people.  Known for his intertwining philosophical and natural themes, Frost understood the importance of storytelling: “Any work of art must first of all tell a story.”

As one of Asheville, NC’s hidden historical gems, Grovewood Village transports visitors into its story, one that began in the early 1900s. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the property was originally developed by Fred L. Seely to house the weaving and woodworking operations of Biltmore Industries, a celebrated enterprise that helped define Asheville’s artistic legacy—a legacy that continues to boost the area’s hospitality and tourism industry.  Explore Asheville encourages visitors to discover the deeply rooted creative culture as found among the area’s craft and fine arts stores and studios.

Grovewood Village houses eight working artist studios, two museums, and a nationally recognized gallery featuring the work of more than 350 American artists.  Marketing Director Ashley Van Matre invites visitors to spend an afternoon exploring the historic grounds and to return time and again to experience the magic of the Village: “Our collection includes everything from paintings and sculpture to handcrafted furniture, ceramics, jewelry, glass, wood, and textiles. We're proud to showcase both nationally recognized artists and emerging makers. Because our collection is always evolving, there's something new to discover every time you visit.”

Beyond the Grovewood Gallery, guests can connect with the working artists in residence during one of the two public tour dates.  Tours are free and self-guided, usually taking place in May or September each year.  Outside of the scheduled tour dates, studio visits are by private appointment, and artist contact information is readily available at the Village’s website, grovewood.com. Artists in residence showcase their original creations, highlighting metalworks, glass sculptures, ceramics, fine furniture, musical instruments, jewelry, and sculptural wood art.

Biltmore Estate Industries, the precursor to what would become Grovewood Village, grew out of the carving classes Eleanor Vance held for boys in Biltmore Village.  As two of the few sculptural wood artists in the Village, Graeme Priddle and Melissa Engler carry on both the tradition of the craft and the legacy of teaching it to others.

Priddle, who began as a woodturner in New Zealand, naturally transitioned into sharing his talents after being inspired by those who taught him: “Someone once told me that you can make something and sell it once, but you can sell the knowledge a thousand times.”

Melissa Engler began her woodworking journey through the Haywood Community College Professional Crafts Program in furniture. She later continued her education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in sculpture from the University of North Carolina at Asheville.  She and Graeme met at a woodworking conference in 2014, where they quickly established a rapport and partnership.  Now married, the couple runs Half Feral Studio at Grovewood Village and teaches classes both nationally and internationally.

Looking ahead to this fall and winter, Marketing Director Ashley Van Matre encourages both locals and tourists alike to mark their calendars for exciting special events.  “Our first exhibition, No Rain, No Flowers, opens October 10 and features the ceramic art of Taylor Robenalt. Then, on November 14, we'll open  Top of Their Game, a unique invitational exhibition showcasing handcrafted games by American makers. Both exhibitions are free to attend and will remain on view through December 31, 2026.”

She continues, “Our Holiday Sip & Shop returns December 4–5 and offers visitors the chance to enjoy refreshments while browsing American-made art and fine craft. It's one of our favorite annual traditions and a wonderful opportunity to find unique, handcrafted gifts while supporting independent artists.”

Grovewood Gallery features artists from across America, while its sister shop, the Gallery of the Mountains, located inside the historic Omni Grove Park Inn, celebrates the artistic craftsmanship of Southern Appalachia.  As part of the Blue Ridge Crafts Trails, the Gallery of the Mountains is a must-see addition to your Grovewood Village visit.

Other attractions to include in your itinerary are the two on-site museums, the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum and the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum. Established by Harry D. Blomberg in 1966, the car museum features a prized collection of antique and vintage automobiles, including a rare 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham and Asheville’s own 1922 American LaFrance fire truck. Open April through December, the museum's architecture boasts an unforgettable historic charm that reflects its 1923 building, once the weaving shop of Biltmore Industries.  Learn more about this handmade legacy by exploring the one-room Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum, which features antique looms, weaving samples, and photographs. Extend your adventure by reserving a private group tour which includes exclusive access to the historic Dye House—typically closed to the public.  Private group tours start at $200 for up to 30 guests and require advance paid reservations.

Although the Village’s former restaurant Eldr closed during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, exciting news includes the reopening of one of Asheville’s local favorites, Village Wayside Bar & Grille.  After a long and successful tenure in Biltmore Village, Village Wayside faced an unexpected challenge when Hurricane Helene severely damaged its historic depot home. Relocating to Grovewood Village in the winter of 2026 offered more than a new beginning. It marked the continuation of a beloved local story, carrying the spirit and legacy of Village Wayside into a new chapter. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and scratch-made food as you celebrate with Village Wayside on its resilience and reopening in Grovewood Village, continuing the legacy as a place where history, craft, and community meet.