Local arts nonprofit Lamplight AVL has announced plans to transform the house next to Harvest Records into affordable artist space and a third place to host arts and music programming.
The project marks the final phase of Lamplight AVL’s three-pronged plan to support the creative community post Helene.
In the wake of Helene, the nonprofit quickly launched its Recover, Remain, and Thrive program. The “recover” phase began in November 2024, distributing $1,500 relief grants to 20 artists impacted by the storm. The “remain” phase awarded $115,000 in larger grants to community hubs to help artists stay in town.
Lamplight AVL’s cofounder and executive director Emily McDaniel said the goal of the third phase has always been to provide affordable artist space. This summer, after looking at many potential spaces, the organization bought the house at 2 Westwood Pl. to bring that goal to life. “For us, the integration of artists in this community is the heartbeat of this town,” McDaniel said. “Without it, it just doesn’t feel like the same place. That’s why the ‘thrive’ program turned into Westwood.”
A portion of the studio spaces will be rented at rates deemed “affordable” based on responses to an artist survey the nonprofit created. Several other spaces will be rented at market rate to ensure financial sustainability. But there will be more to the space than artist studios. One of the warehouse spaces behind the house will serve as a community-driven events space, hosting live music, theater, workshops, and other arts-centered programming.
For the vision to come to fruition, the nonprofit is also relying on community support through donations and hands-on volunteer help.
Applications for studio space will go live later this year, with studios expected to open in early 2026. The space will open up to community programming later in 2026.
But you don’t have to wait to get involved with Lamplight AVL. During the month of October, artist Dan Reid is exhibiting “Croctober” at the nonprofit’s residency space at 821 Haywood Rd. Yes, it is indeed an art exhibit centered around the somewhat infamous rubber shoe. You can also support Lamplight AVL by picking up “We Love it Here,” a compilation album of stellar tracks recorded at Drop of Sun Studios that benefits the org.
