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Hidden Gems in The High Country: Meet The Watauga County Arts Council

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at App State chapter.

Hidden behind Harris Teetter is a gem in the High Country. The Watauga County Arts Council is a non-profit organization who’s keeping the arts alive in Watauga County.  

“We strive to support our local artists and to make wonderful arts experiences available to everyone, regardless of age or level of ability,” said Cherry Johnson, head of the Arts Council. “Our slogan is: Making the ARTS a Presence in Our Community.” 

Have you heard of “wine and draw”? Of course you have because it’s one of the hottest new trends right now. Well, here in Boone you can have that wine and draw experience at the Watauga Arts Council. They’re called Arty Parties, they’re BYOB, and you’ll walk away with some cute DIY decor to display in your apartment or dorm room!

“We offer as many opportunities as possible for area artists to showcase and sell their work, perform, and develop their entrepreneurial skills in order to successfully use their art as a means of financial support,” said Johnson.

The Arts Council is all about supporting the arts and local artists. They support everyone from children to senior citizens, to season residents to locals, to visiting friends from other communities. You won’t be turned away here! This is a comforting, welcoming place to come and celebrate the arts.

The Arts Council has an exciting event going on now called Holiday Originals. Here you can buy holiday gifts, decor, ornaments, you name it and they’ve got it. The best part is you know exactly where your product is coming from, and everything is handmade by artists! These are original pieces, so you won’t have to worry about getting someone a gift they already have. They also have handmade ornaments that are not only beautiful, but they’re made with the heart and love of an artist.

The Watauga Arts Council has events throughout the year that the local public is welcome to attend. They also offer music lessons and art classes. To check out everything they have to offer, check out their website www.watauga-arts.org or their Facebook page: The Watauga County Arts Council.

Right now, the Arts Council is encouraging donations be made so they can continue to open their doors to the community next year. If you’re feeling tugs on your heartstrings, consider donating today! It’s easy. Just go to: http://give2wcac.mydagsite.com/contribute. Every little bit helps in keeping the arts alive in the High Country!

Check out this hidden gem today! 

Taylor currently works in television production in New York City. Her current project was for a Sesame Work Shop show called 'Helpsters' that is now streaming on AppleTV. While at Appalachian State University, Taylor majored in Film and Creative Writing. She enjoys reality TV, college basketball, binge-watching Netflix, eating Mexican food, and cuddling with her cats. Her dream is to be a television show writer. For inquries, she can be reached at taylorpdills@gmail.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylordills/