I was wandering through the Riverview Station building in the River Arts District, looking in…read moreparticular for a couple of artists whose work I'd stumbled upon on the website. I went the wrong way, though, and ended up near the Art Garden. As I was turning around to come back, Galen emerged excitedly from his studio with another artist, and as they parted ways Galen enthusiastically invited me to his studio. It was so much fun to talk with the artist about their work! I'm not at all educated about art, and I can't speak about it in any kind of sophisticated or technical way, but I found his work incredibly interesting and very beautiful. He talked to me about one of the commissioned pieces he was working on--in fact, it was for the artist he'd been speaking with when he invited me in. He described how it originated, the "seed" the other artist had given him to create the painting (row, row, row your boat), and how he'd taken it from there. Galen uses words in his art sometimes, and this particular piece has strains from that nursery rhyme painted into it. It would be interesting to know how much of the words remain in the final piece, and how much fades into the background as the painting evolves. Galen had a new piece he'd finished that was simply stunning. I wish I had the $2,300 or so to buy it myself. I'm going to be bugging him for sure about a reproduction. As it was, I couldn't decide between three reproductions he had available, and he said he'd tell me a bit about each of them to help aid in my decision making. In the end I chose one that had some personal elements for him in it, as part of the mountains in the piece represent where he was born. I loved it anyway, but that made it extra special! As I was leaving he was inviting others in to chat and see his work. He's really such a fun guy to hang around and have a chat with, and really made me feel excited to buy my first piece of art!

Great guy and does great work. Anything you can think of he will make it better!! Hit him up for…read moresure!

From the owner: Based in Asheville, NC, House of Paint specializes in custom murals for homes, man caves, Airbnbs,…read moregame rooms, garages or any blank wall ready for a creative touch. Each mural is hand-painted and personalized to your vision, style, and space. We also create custom hand-painted shoes, perfect for unique gifts or making your kicks stand out from the crowd. At House of Paint, the goal is to turn your ideas into eye-catching art. Reach out today to bring your walls or your shoes to life.

This local ceramist's gallery is always on our list when visiting the River Arts district. This…read moretime I found some beautiful ceramic napkin rings and glass ornaments that we will enjoy for years to come. Shipping options are available for those who are not driving to Asheville. Stop by and support the local talent!

I enjoyed the different textures that are incorporated into the pieces, as well as the color…read moreaesthetic. These pieces could also blend into someone's existing patterns and place settings as they are almost neutral, with the different textures giving variety. Very peaceful.

I was very pleased with my experience working with Krista from Pluma Paper for my wedding…read moreinvitations. once she knew what I was looking for she gave me multiple options to choose from. I have had lots compliments on the invites, and a bunch of people saying its the best one they have seen. Krista is sweet and professional. I will recommend Pluma to all my friends when they become brides!

From the owner: I specialize in logos/branding, stationery + calligraphy, packaging, and more!read more

Came in today to get Fairy Hair. There is a mask ordinance in place in Buncombe Co. We requested…read morethe girl doing our hair wear a mask. We wore our masks. One customer had a mask. Owner refused to wear a mask!!!! It's the law in this county. She obviously does not care about protecting her customers. We did not shop. Got our hair done and left.

Great place. The cutest home decor and the owners art is just great. The owner is so sweet to…read moreeveryone and is always down for a conversation. Love it!!