Showing Our Summer Colors

As winter gives way to spring, the urge to spruce up our homes and landscapes many of us to home centers for new furnishings and nurseries for a few dozen new plants and garden decor–all to add color after its absence during the colder months. After a good spring cleaning and rearranging furniture, we might discover a blank wall or an empty nook that needs something, even if we are unsure of what that thing is until we see it. Luckily, one does not need to travel too far to find just the right piece of art.

The plateau is bristling with artists who have found inspiration here, as artists have since the towns along the plateau were first founded. One of the area’s most anticipated and beloved art shows returns to the Sapphire Valley this July, the Annual Summer Colors Fine Art Show by the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers (ALHC)

Artists have flocked here from all over the country–nay, all over the world–for over a hundred years, and the area has become well known within artistic circles as both a place to create and a place to acquire stunning original works. The plateau's reputation for its art scene has steadily developed momentum over the years from its motivated artist population. They work well together, elevating one another to create and promote festivals and shows that build and strengthen their community. With these principles in mind, the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers was founded, a community effort with a proud heritage.

In keeping with their Appalachian roots, it all started in a barn. A group of artists and art enthusiasts met in July of 1980 and decided to create a fraternity to work together, collaborate, and organize art shows. They met in homes for studios monthly, never faltering from their goals. Initially, it was called the Art League of Highlands, but as their membership grew and their reach expanded, they officially became the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers in 2014. Their mission statement cements their commitment to both art and the community. “The Art League of Highlands is founded on the principle that visual artists need mutual support as they become increasingly creative.  The purpose of the League is to serve the community by supporting originality in adults and with special emphasis toward serving the children of the Highlands Plateau.”

One of their strongest areas of community outreach is encouraging the creativity of the area’s youth. Indeed, the ALHC hit the ground running over 40 years ago by starting an after-school program for Highlands children interested in refining their artistic talents. These kids were given a variety of media to explore, from watercolors and pianos to dramatic readings. No form of art was left out. That after-school program became so popular that others were added. Still, the demand grew, until the ALHC partnered with The Bascom to create a summer program as well–an incredible investment in the area’s youth and a great way to ensure the continuation and growth of the plateau’s reputation as a world-class artistic destination.

The Art League enters its 45th year this July, making it especially inviting to join them for their annual Summer Colors Fine Art Show at the Sapphire Valley Community Center on July 19 and 20, from 10 am to 5 pm. This free, juried event is open to all, offering a chance to meet local artists and view their works. It's a welcoming event that may inspire you to explore your inner artist.

The Summer Colors Show chairman, John Cannon, knows how attending a show can creatively chart a new course. “I remember seeing the banner hanging at the crossroads advertising the show. I was interested in going since I had taken up watercolors upon retiring. At that first show, I was cornered by [then] President John Bauknight, who convinced me to join the ALHC. Later on, at the next show, I was cajoled into displaying my paintings! One thing led to another, I joined the Board and eventually became the Summer Colors chair,” says Cannon, who has been a member of the ALHC for four years.

Artists of all media will be in attendance, from oils and acrylics to potters and woodworkers, photography, and more. The Summer Colors Show is a celebration of artistic diversity, and it's sure to pique your interest. Local artist Barbara Jamison encourages all to attend. “The Summer Colors Show is always a fan favorite—over 30 local artists who have been inspired by the beauty of this area. The show is buzzing with activity. It's loads of fun,” says Jamison, whom you might recognize from her many works displayed throughout the area and from the April/May issue of Plateau Magazine.

No matter the kind of art you’re interested in, you’ll find it at the Summer Colors Fine Art Show. That blank wall or empty nook you discovered in your home this spring may soon house your new favorite piece of art–and if you’ve been neglecting the artist inside you and are interested in joining the Art League of Highlands-Cashiers, they hold monthly meetings with guest presenters at The Bascom, starting with a wine social beforehand. Information about meetings and the Summer Colors Fine Art Show can be found on their website: ArtLeagueHighlands-Cshiers.com.