By Alexa Dysch – 2014
From the small, quiet village of Brasstown comes a most spectacular and unexpected event at the John C. Campbell Folk School. For one weekend a year, the community gathers to celebrate the artisan culture of the area, and showcases the town at their Folk School Fall Festival. Welcoming over 30,000 visitors, the festival is an enthralling event for locals and passersby alike. Over 200 artisans participate in this one of a kind time, which should mark the calendars of all those interested in learning more about Appalachian culture and Western North Carolina artisans.
What strikes you immediately is the close-knit feeling of this festival, despite the number of attendees looking for a snack or a souvenir. Compared to other Fall Festivals within North Carolina, this one felt particularly calm and almost like visiting a neighbor’s backyard (albeit a large, vendor filled yard). There was no need to shove through a line for a delicious bite of fried food; there was enough to go around, and while the intoxicating smells surrounding you, there was a friendly neighbor waiting nearby who you just had to get to know.
In the days leading up to the Folk School Fall Festival, we met many locals who mentioned the upcoming event. Initially, it wasn’t in our schedule, but we quickly learned that it had to be. As it turned out, many of our new friends were artisans showcasing their skills. We were delighted to see one another, and fascinated by their live artistic demonstrations.
By far, the art of the festival was the star. From handcrafted pottery and canvas paintings, to homemade soaps and locally crafted honey, each product was presented with the utmost pride and love. Classic folk and bluegrass music sounded throughout the campgrounds. It was evident to my visiting self that the love of this artistic community was embodied in this event.
Of all the exhibits at the Festival, I was stunned by the quilt display. Satiated on classic fair cuisine, I wandered into a nearby barn and looked up to find a ceiling emblazoned with brightly dyed fabrics, woven into beautiful quilts. Each year, a quilt is created to commemorate the Festival. 40 years’ worth of fabric filled the area. I could only imagine taking one on a cold, mountainous night and wrapping up next to a warm, blazing fire.
