Blue Ridge ArtSpace Living Traditions Program

Blue Ridge ArtSpace is significantly expanding and enhancing its Living Traditions Program through the work of full-time, in-residence folklorist, Mark Freed. Grant funding and a partnership with the Appalachian State University Hayes School of Music and Center for Appalachian Studies has transformed the folklore vision into reality, and the program’s goals reflect the community and service focus of the ArtSpace vision and mission.

Program Goals

• To document and support the continuation of our mountain traditional arts
• To present these art forms to local and visiting communities
• To affirm the role of these art forms as an important part of local heritage
• To promote understanding and acceptance between practitioners of both traditional and contemporary arts
• To provide accessible opportunities to the arts for community members who are uncomfortable with more conventional arts venues
• To validate folk and traditional art forms to those who might not currently understand their value
• To serve as a resource for area agencies seeking traditional artists, thereby supporting the growth of cultural and heritage tourism in the region
• To provide workshops, performances, exhibits, lectures and demonstrations in traditional art forms.