ARTWAYS
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ASHEVILLE
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ARTWAYS : ASHEVILLE :
Artways: Asheville
Pathways into the Arts Economy
Artways: Asheville is a RADA Foundation project in partnership with Asheville Poverty Initiative.
This is more than an exhibition. It is a pathway into the arts economy: a multi-year workforce development initiative designed to connect artists to real opportunities for income, visibility, and long-term participation in Asheville's creative economy.
Through hands-on learning, professional development, mentorship, and direct market access, Artways: Asheville helps artists build the skills, confidence, and connections needed to grow sustainable creative careers. The River Arts District has long been home to one of the nation's most vibrant creative communities. Artways: Asheville extends that legacy by removing barriers, creating opportunity, and welcoming more artists into Asheville's creative economy.
THE PROGRAM + HOW IT WORKS
Artways: Asheville is designed as a step-by-step experience that combines artistic growth with professional development.
Learn + Create
Artists participate in workshops led by established River Arts District artists, exploring new techniques, materials, and creative practices while strengthening their artistic voice.
Build Professional Skills
Through workshops led by Mountain BizWorks and experienced River Arts District artists, participants learn how to price their work, present themselves professionally, market their work, and confidently engage with collectors and buyers.
Exhibit + Sell Work
Throughout the program, artists participate in a series of public exhibitions designed to build confidence, increase visibility, and create opportunities for artwork sales.
Continue the Journey
Between exhibitions, participating artists may display work in the RAD Welcome Center, creating ongoing visibility, sales opportunities, and connections with collectors, visitors, and the community throughout the year.
Six hands-on workshops focused on both art and business
Materials provided for each workshop
A $100 artist materials grant
Access to classroom and creative workspace throughout the program
One-on-one support for social media and artist development
Opportunities to exhibit and sell their work
Ongoing exhibition opportunities throughout the program
Continued visibility within the River Arts District
Summer Exhibition
We Were Always Here
The inaugural Artways: Asheville exhibition celebrates artists whose creativity has always been part of our community. Their work, stories, and perspectives deserve to be seen, experienced, and collected.
Winter Exhibition
A new exhibition exploring each artist's continued creative growth and expanding professional practice.
Closing Exhibition
A culminating exhibition celebrating each artist's artistic journey, accomplishments, and future within Asheville's creative community.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
Membership to River Arts District Artists (RADA)
Access to a network of more than 500 working artists
Marketing and promotional support
A personal artist profile on the RADA website
Opportunities to participate in exhibitions, events, and art markets
Eligibility for grants, scholarships, tent grants, and additional artist opportunities
PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE
We believe when artists thrive, Asheville thrives
Every donation fuels creativity. Every action strengthens the district. Here’s how you can support our mission
PARTNER
Support from businesses and community partners makes our work possible. From event sponsorship to long-term giving, we invite you to be part of the RAD's recovery and future.
VOLUNTEER
Whether you're an art lover, neighbor, or industry professional, there are many ways to get involved. We welcome hands-on help, behind-the-scenes support, and creative collaborations.
DONATE
Give to directly fund scholarships, space, and services for working artists. Your support helps rebuild studios, relaunch businesses, and restore opportunity.
