The Ashe Arts Center in Lansing, North Carolina, is hosting an opening reception for "Shadow of the Hills," a new exhibit featuring artwork created by the Blue Ridge Art Clan (BRAC). The reception will take place on Friday, May 8, from 5-7 p.m., and the exhibit will remain on display through June 6. BRAC, founded by Florence Thomas in 1978, promotes fine arts and supports artistic excellence, with members including professional and hobby artists from Ashe County and the surrounding High Country. The 2026 exhibit features 28 participating artists, including Scott Ballard, Lynn Baranowski, and Pete Benda, among others.
This event matters because it highlights the role of local community arts organizations in fostering creative expression and providing accessible cultural programming in rural areas. The Blue Ridge Art Clan's ongoing activities, such as monthly meetings and educational opportunities, demonstrate how grassroots art groups sustain regional art scenes and engage the public. The exhibit also serves as a platform for both emerging and established local artists to showcase their work, reinforcing the importance of community-based art initiatives in preserving and promoting fine arts outside major urban centers.