Asheville – It has now been six months since Helene devastated local people, businesses, and our artist community. Recently, the artist community has faced another significant blow as two of our top stores for professional art supplies, as well as arts and crafts supplies, announced their closures. This leaves no art stores in Asheville proper, the central hub of art in Western North Carolina.
Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff
After four decades in business, Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff, a family-owned art supply store known nationwide, has announced it is closing its doors. The store stated, “we will be putting down our paintbrush and closing our doors. We want to express our deepest gratitude for your support throughout the years. It has been an absolute joy to serve you and be a part of your creative journey.” They will be shutting down their locations in Boone, Asheville, and Charlotte. Following the announcement, the internet was filled with artists expressing their grief…