ASHEVILLE & PENLAND AUCTION

ASHEVILLE & PENLAND AUCTION
AUGUST  20 - 24, 2025 
$950 MEMBERS| $1150 NONMEMBERS
REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

Join JRACraft for an unforgettable summer journey through the vibrant craft scene of Western North Carolina. This exclusive trip combines the best of Asheville’s art galleries and museums with the festive atmosphere of the Penland School of Craft’s Annual Benefit Auction. Meet celebrated artists, experience private tours, and enjoy lively receptions and group dinners—all while soaking in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early.

After the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on Western North Carolina, the region’s vibrant craft communities and tourist economy continue to recover. Like so many in the craft world, JRACraft was heartbroken to witness the damage and disruption experienced by artists, galleries, and institutions in the area. In response, we created this special trip not only to experience the extraordinary talent concentrated in Asheville and Penland, but also to give back.

Anchored around the renowned Penland Benefit Auction, the trip highlights key institutions and makers across the region. We've also worked to keep costs down on our end, so that more of your travel dollars can directly support the art, artists, and cultural spaces you'll encounter. Whether you're a collector, craft enthusiast, or curious traveler, we invite you to join us in celebrating and sustaining this extraordinary creative community.

Your trip fee includes all scheduled programming, including two group dinners and a weekend pass to the Penland Auction and related festivities. Participants are responsible for travel to/from Asheville, hotel accommodations, breakfasts, lunches, and transportation between towns (noted in blue on the schedule). We’re happy to help coordinate carpools and recommend lodging—see below for more details.

trip itinerary

Wednesday, August 20 – Welcome to Asheville
Begin your journey with an optional full-day visit to the Qualla Boundary, homeland of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Stops include the Museum of the Cherokee People and Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual.

That evening, we will gather with the full group and some special guests for a welcome reception at the Center for Craft in Asheville.

Thursday, August 21 – Galleries and Museums of Asheville
Spend the day exploring Asheville’s dynamic art scene. Begin with a visit to Blue Spiral 1 Gallery, where artists such as Michael Sherrill and Alex Bernstein will share insights into their work. Then, enjoy a private tour of the Asheville Art Museum led by the Director. After lunch on your own, head to Momentum Gallery for conversations with notable artists including Rachel David, Lisa Clague, and the duo Littleton and Vogel.

Conclude the day with a festive group dinner at the celebrated Limones Restaurant.

Friday, August 22 – From Asheville to Penland
Travel to the heart of craft country with stops in Bakersville and Spruce Pine. In the morning, visit Tandem and Micah Galleries, known for showcasing exceptional contemporary work. After lunch, arrive at Penland School of Craft for an afternoon of exhibitions, artist talks, and a pop-up show featuring the Core Fellows.

The day ends with Celebrate the Artists—a festive cocktail reception and silent auction that brings together makers, collectors, and craft lovers.

Saturday, August 23 – A Day at Penland
Spend the day immersed in all that Penland has to offer during their annual Auction weekend. Start your morning with coffee and conversation in the studios of the school’s resident artists. In the afternoon, enjoy craft demonstrations, gallery browsing, and a seated lunch and live auction at a  table especially reserved for trip participants.

Close the day with a memorable group dinner at the scenic Inn at Little Switzerland.

Sunday, August 24 – Farewell
Depart at your leisure after a rich weekend filled with art, connection, and inspiration.

download full Trip itinerary with times

travel & lodging 

Participants should plan to stay in Asheville on Wednesday and Thursday nights, and near Penland (Spruce Pine, Little Switzerland) on Friday and Saturday. We encourage early hotel booking and have reserved a limited number of rooms at the Blue Ridge Boutique Hotel in Spruce Pine—please contact us for details. If you need help coordinating transportation, we are happy to connect you with other attendees.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

CANCELLATION AND REFUNDS
All cancellations must be made in writing to the James Renwick Alliance at [email protected] on or before June 30, 2025. Refunds, less the cancellation fee of $50 and the non-refundable JRA contribution of $200, are made if your notification is received before this date. No refunds will be made after this date except in the case of a medical emergency.

RESPONSIBILITY
Neither the James Renwick Alliance or any of the participating partners accepts liability for any expenses incurred by tour participants in preparing for the tour. We require that all participants be in good health. If you have a medical condition needing special medical attention, you must report it when filling out your application form by sending an email to [email protected]. We retain the right to refuse any applicant whose health, in our sole judgment, would negatively affect their full participation in the trip. Regardless of your health condition, we strongly recommend that if your current insurance does not cover medical costs while you are traveling, you insure yourself for the costs of medical care including, but not limited to: medical evacuation, baggage damage or loss, accident, and sickness. While we take every precaution, neither the participating partners, nor the James Renwick Alliance shall be responsible or liable for any loss, death, injury, illness or damage to or loss of property suffered or incurred by any person in connection with this trip.