If our super-gorgeous scenery has you maxing out your camera’s memory card, you’ve definitely got mountain fever. I know we do! 🙂 Whether you’re vacationing in Murphy, NC, or you already live here (or want to move here), you’re always looking for ways to capture a piece of paradise. Fortunately, our downtown Murphy NC art galleries have you covered, as they’re full of knock-your-socks-off artwork just waiting to spice up your home or serve as terrific gifts. Even better, the galleries are just a stone’s throw away from each other, making it easy to browse them all.
First, let’s visit the Valley River Arts Guild Artists’ Gallery and Store, located at 33 Valley River Avenue. Besides sponsoring the Murphy Art Walks, these super-talented local artisans bring our mountains to life with their amazing artwork. Inside this inviting gallery, you’ll find photography and watercolors that literally jump off the page. You’ll be equally tempted by the wire jewelry, woodturnings, fiber arts, and fine furniture accent pieces. Don’t miss the doll exhibit – each lifelike character has their own distinctive personality, and you’ll find at least one you just can’t live without.
Next, hop across the hall to the Highlander Gallery, home to a huge selection of gallery-quality giclee prints. But wait – there’s much more! Check out the striking sculpture, leather, glass art, marquetry, basketry, and felted pieces. The colorful paintings and photographs showcase some of our favorite mountain landscapes. Look for the “old man of the woods” walking sticks, wood-turned cowboy hats, and fragrant handmade soaps that will be a welcome addition to your powder room.
Just across the street, you’ll find Gallery 26, a family-owned gallery that also displays talented local guest artists’ work. Located at 26 Valley River Avenue, this shop features a show-stopping collection of wooden artwork. Besides beautiful Southern Appalachian domestic woods, you’ll find exotic hardwoods from Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Before creating a piece, the artist examines each wood’s grain patterns, colors, and textures – and chooses a species that will make that finished work shine. You’ll also enjoy the finely crafted jewelry and wall art. The pocket mirrors, buttons, and magnets make nice keepsakes for family and friends.
Next, head around the corner to the Artists Common Gallery at 81 Tennessee Street. This oldie-but-goodie Murphy, NC gallery has been around since 1996, and is a one-stop shop for art lovers. Besides featuring numerous local artists’ work, the gallery hosts artist Betsy Henn Bailey, who teaches classes in several media. For the icing on the cake, you can get your favorite photographs, paintings, or keepsakes framed here. That’s right – Artists Common includes a full framing shop.
Last but certainly not least, drive a few short miles to Brasstown, and visit the John C. Campbell Folk School Craft Shop. You could literally spend all afternoon here, browsing through traditional and contemporary Appalachian crafts from over 300 juried craftspeople. You’ll find turned-wood bowls, forged fireplace poker sets, marquetry earrings, colorful scarves and table linens, and the list goes on. It’s the perfect place to find a special gift – or a gift for yourself.
And naturally, if you find yourself searching for real estate in Murphy NC, we’re here to help you find your home in the mountains! That way, you can enjoy these and all the great things to do in wonderful Murphy!
The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team