Artists' work stocks Benefit Auction
KATHI OSBORNE Contributing Writer

Courtesy of Keather Weideman Woodturner Barbara Haydon at work on her lathe-turned vessel. Haydon is contributing a lathe-turned vessel titled "Gratitude" to the auction.

BRASSTOWN - Over 160 one-of-a-kind, handcrafted items donated to John C. Campbell Folk School will be auctioned to the highest bidders at the school's annual Benefit Auction on Saturday, August 18.

Jan Davidson, Director of the school and emcee of the event, said the artists and craftspeople who donated these special works - many of whom have learned some of their skills at the school - value the benefits the school provides area residents and students.

"These talented artists each believe that our numerous class programs, as well as our concerts, dances, nature trails, history center and all the other things we offer, are important," Davidson said. "So the bonus for those who come Saturday is that when you go home with a great piece of art you'll also go home with the good feeling of helping the Folk School do its good work."

Auctioneers Tim Ryan and Bob Grove will present an array of items including pottery, ironwork, basketry, wood items, dolls, paintings, weavings, jewelry and furniture.

Local woodturner Barbara Haydon contributed a latheturned vessel of Norfolk Island Pine titled "Gratitude." Haydon said, "I feel gratitude for the opportunities to learn at the Folk School and gratitude for my ability to turn a piece of art. I've attended several woodturning classes at the Folk School and I gain new knowledge every time. The environment there is really wonderful for learning and for expressing your creativity."

The event will be held from 2:00pm to 5:00pm in the Keith House on the Folk School's campus in Brasstown, with a preview of art available from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. A silent auction will also be held from 1:00pm to 2:00pm.

A summer lunch buffet will be served from Noon to 1:30pm. Reservations are required for lunch and the cost of lunch is $12.00 per person. No reservations are required to attend the auction and admission to the auction is free.

To reserve lunch or for more information about the auction, call 828-837-2775 or 1-800- 365-5724.

John C. Campbell Folk School offers over 830 classes year-round in traditional and contemporary craft, art, music, dance, cooking, gardening, nature studies, photography and writing. Founded in 1925, the Folk School is a national landmark on the National Registry of Historic Places. It features a Craft Shop, History Center, a regular concert series, community dances and nature trails.