This weekend, The Big Crafty will fill Harrah’s Cherokee Center - Asheville with creative spirit, showcasing the work of over 150+ artists. Let us paint you a picture of the indie arts + crafts festival.
Take a look back
In 2008, Brandy Bourne and Justin Rabuck noticed how many local artists turned to Etsy to sell their work. The couple wanted to provide a physical space for artists’ work to be celebrated by the community, and thus, The Big Crafty festival was born.
During Justin’s time as an art major at Arkansas State and College of Charleston, he shared that having your work labeled as “crafty” was a negative thing. Fast forward to now, he’s flipped that idea on its head, making The Big Crafty one of the most popular art festivals in the region.
Drawing a crowd
On Saturday, July 8, folks can shop art from local vendors from 12-6 p.m. — admission is $10. On Sunday, July 9, the community can attend free of charge. Can’t make it this weekend? Don’t worry — The Big Crafty will return on December 2 + 3 for its winter festival.
Whether you’re on the hunt for ceramics, prints, jewelry, or textiles, there are plenty of vendors to explore. Plus, attendees can get their creative juices flowing with a variety of demonstrations and hands-on activities. Find the full list of artists setting up shop at this year’s festival.
The Big Crafty’s impact
Not only does the festival provide economic opportunities for vendors — generating $12 million in artist sales over the years — but the recognition of the festival has spawned wide-ranging growth and development for participating artists. Horse + Hero, CODA at Citizen Vinyl, and HollerHouse in Bristol, VA have all been able to open brick-and-mortar locations as a result of The Big Crafty’s success.
