Southern Highland Craft Guild presents The Graduating Class of 2026 from Haywood Community College’s (HCC) Professional Crafts Program in a new exhibition at the Folk Art Center. The exhibition opens on Saturday, May 9, and runs through August 19 in the upstairs Main Gallery.
The Professional Crafts Program is known for its rigorous, hands-on curriculum across multiple disciplines, including fiber, wood, clay, and metals and jewelry. “For nearly five decades, our programs have flourished, in part due to our strong relationship with the Southern Highland Craft Guild,” says Brian Wurst, professional crafts wood instructor at HCC. “This exhibition represents the culmination of two years of dedication and growth. We are proud to see our students’ work presented in such an inspiring space, and many of our alumni continue their journey as active Guild members.”
One such alumni is Valerie Berlage, curator of collections and exhibitions at the Folk Art Center.
“As a Haywood Professional Crafts grad myself, I love being able to showcase the results of all their hard work and creativity,” she says. “Seeing what the next generation of artists creates is truly inspirational, and the quality which the program produces is exceptional. Students work toward creating pieces for the show all year, and the jury process always ensures we get the best they have to offer.”…