December 2016 small2

RIVER ARTS DISTRICT:

Holiday Shopping with Local Arts & Culture

ARTS & CULTURE RAPID RIVER MAGAZINE’S

WWW.RAPIDRIVERMAGAZINE.COM

December 2016 Vol. 20 No. 4

THE OLDEST AND MOST READ ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE IN WNC

www.SusanMPhippsDesigns.com

Local Craft Guild brings specials to Holiday Maker Market The opportunity to purchase

handmade for the holidays has returned to the

Folk Art Center,

with shopping deals for all customers.

Each year makers of the Southern Highland Craft Guild liquidate overstocks and annual inventory at the Guild Artists’ Holiday Sale.

Occurring two Saturdays in Dec 3 and 10, members will be on hand in the center’s auditorium selling select work 10-50% off retail from 10-4pm.

The sale provides artisans a market in which they can cycle out remaining 2016 product to begin the new year with a fresh start. This allows many creatives to try out new techniques, and begin their annual production process.

For the customer, the sale means great deals for holiday shopping and a

Hand blown glass ornaments by Weaverville artist Michael Hatch will be at the December 10th sale.

chance to connect with the makers.

It also provides an exciting, festive alternative to mall and big box import shopping. Choose from a variety of gift items including ceramics, jewelry, fiber,

2 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

paper, glass and wood. Buying from makers supports the local economy and promotes the mission of the Guild which is bringing together the crafts and craftspeople of the Southern Highlands for the benefit of shared resources, education, marketing and conservation.

Nearly 70 members will be participating over the course of the two sales, with a different group each weekend. A complete list of exhibitors is now available at www.craftguild.org/ holiday-sales. While at the Folk Art Center, do not miss the Focus Gallery show, “Mystery” and the Main Gallery exhibition, with work from University of North Georgia.

The Folk Art Center is Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway (828) 298-7928 www.craftguild.org.

IF YOU GO

Celtic Jamie Laval’s

Music and Stories for the Deep Midwinter Dec 27 Hickory Drendell Auditorium Dec 28 Charlotte Fullwood Theatre Dec 29 Asheville Isis Music Hall Dec 30 Tryon Fine Arts Center (206) 226-5663

· www.JamieLaval.com

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 3

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

Black Mountain Iron Works

Fawn Barnett, another local artist, offers beautiful and unique jewelry using vintage sterling sliver plated flatware

Fawn Barnett, another local artist, offers beautiful and unique jewelry using vintage sterling sliver plated flatware

Holiday Gift Shopping at Antiques at Riverview Station A large part of Antiques At Riverview Station lies in the artists they represent.

Within their eclectic shop you can find the unique talents of Blacksmiths, Potters, Jewelers and Seamstresses.

Dan Howachyn and his wife Tekla of Black Mountain Iron Works have been creating award winning designs with metal for over three decades. Their

works are nationally and internationally exhibited in homes and many urban spaces.

Fawn Barnett, another local artist, offers beautiful and unique jewelry using vintage sterling sliver plated flatware dating from as far back as the middle 1800’s. She is preserving the past and giving new life to a piece of untold history.

By Staff Reports

Terri Godfrey from Baked Earth Studios in Black Mountain creates unique and beautiful art in ceramics. Her ceramics are all food, microwave oven and dishwasher safe. Her work is highly valued by collectors nationwide.

Nomadic Designs artists have traveled the world to bring the latest trends is hand made jewelry and silver ‘Antiques’ continued on pg. 29

Clay takes all forms, shapes, sizes and colors at Odyssey Co-Op

By Elise Delfield

Clay can take all forms, shapes, sizes and colors.

Such is apparent at the Odyssey CoOp Gallery of Ceramic Art in the River Arts District of Asheville. Located on Clingman Avenue, the gallery is set just inside an old warehouse building’s loading dock.

At night, the closed garage door conceals the beauty within. Tuesday through Saturday, during the day, the

space reveals a well-polished gallery of ceramic art.

4 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

Variety is the key and unique processes and concepts employed by the 25 member artists make a visit to the Odyssey CoOp Gallery of Ceramic Art such a wonderful experience.

Everyone will find something in this gallery that moves them.

It is a perfect place to find a locally ‘Odyssey’ continued on pg. 17

CONTENTS 17

ON OUR COVER

17

Volume 20, NO. 4

December 2016

Patricia Cotterill’s art catches scenes of everyday life

6 9 10 14 8 13 16 18 19

Jamie Laval’s Celtic Christmas: Music and Stories for the Deep Midwinter Jewish Jazz comes to Asheville

How you can make art part of your life and create art in a small place BlackBird Frame & Art expanded gifts, cards and fine art prints for the Holiday season

Greg Vineyard

Art Classes ‘All Squared Away’ a focus on small work Ring in a Joyous New Year with the Asheville Symphony Grovewood Gallery in Asheville Invites You to Sip & Shop

15 27 28 33 35 21 22 23 24 26 30

Publisher/Layout and Design/Editor: Dennis Ray Poetry Editor: Carol Pearce Bjorlie CONTACT US: Rapid River’s Arts and Culture Magazine is a monthly publication in WNC. Mail: 85 N. Main St. Canton NC 28716 Email: Info@rapidrivermagazine.com Phone: (828) 646-0071

Grace Carol Bomer celebrates the Majesty of God through art

Red House Galley

Website updated Daily Check out: Film Reviews, Upcoming Festivals, Music, Food and more!

www.rapidrivermagazine.com Online NOW

Book Previews Waynesville: Haywood County Art Tour Black Mountain: Ann Whisenant’s simple yet beautiful way to art

Comics

34

Sonora Restaurant brings authentic Mexican food to Asheville In England, a pub is more than just a place to drink Philosophy with Bill Walz Premiere of ‘Snowbound’ hits ACT this December

Poetry

The Curmudgeon notes the quality of the Nation’s Press

NEXT MONTH

COLUMNS/ DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

“Bird Nest” (detail) by Patricia Cotterill

Patricia Cotterill

“New Year with New Art” Our Special Annual ‘New and Exciting Art of 2017’ issue coming this January 2017

Distribution: Dennis Ray/Rick Hills Marketing: Dennis Ray/Rick Hills

All Materials contained herein are owned and copyrighted ©

by Rapid River Arts and Culture Magazine and the individual contributors unless otherwise stated. Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of ADVERTISING SALES: Rapid River Arts and Culture Magazine or the advertisers Downtown Asheville and other areas — herein.

Dennis Ray (828) 712-4752 • (828) 646-0071 © ‘Rapid River Arts and Culture Magazine’ Dining Guide, Hendersonville, Waynesville — December 2016, Vol. 20, No. 4 Rick Hills (828) 452-0228 rick@rapidrivermagazine.com

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 5

FINE ART

Jamie Laval’s Celtic Christmas: Music and Stories for the Deep Midwinter

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Discovering that Christmas Carols were originally peasant dance tunes inspired Jamie Laval’s new found passion for holiday music.

Laval is a North Carolinabased violinist who has devoted his career to performing traditional village dance music from the British Isles. His annual Celtic Christmas show has been a labor of love for the past six years.

“Each year I find new songs and stories that date back to per-Christian holiday celebrations,” Laval says. “It is fascinating to unravel the tapestry of music and dance traditions during the midwinter solstice.”

Forgotten mythical folk characters such as the benevolent Yule Goat from Finland, the Christmas Witch of Iceland, and the Hebridean Seal Woman are brought to life CompareInstantly

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6 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

By Staff Reports

in Laval’s Music and Stories for the Deep Midwinter.

Headlining the show is Asheville-based violinist and storyteller Jamie Laval. In 2002 Laval won the U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Championship, has performed for Her Majesty The Queen, and recently presented a TED Talk.

Emphasizing the dance theme of the show, two Irish step dancers and two Scottish Highland dancers will take the stage with Laval. Fully kilted in colorful costumes, the show is nothing if not colorful.

A beloved member of the musical troupe is Asheville’s Rosalind Buda, who plays at least 4 instruments including the ancient bombard from Brittany, and gives mesmerizing readings of seasonal poetry.

The show also features Haley Hewett, the brilliant Celtic ‘Celtic’ continued next pg.

IF YOU GO

The show plays December 27-30 in Hickory, Charlotte, Asheville, and Tryon.

Tuesday, Dec. 27, 7:30pm SALT Block Drendell Auditorium, Hickory, NC

$25 / $20 / $12 / $20 Wednesday, Dec. 28, 7:30pm Fullwood Theater, Matthews (Charlotte), NC $30 / $24 / $24 / $12 Thursday, Dec. 29, 8pm Isis Music Hall, Asheville, NC $28 / $24 / $12

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harpist from Boston, along with several surprise guest performers. “It’s an embarrassment of riches,” says Laval.

Jamie Laval’s Celtic Christmas promises to be an entertaining and thought-provoking family holiday experience.

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Friday, Dec. 30, 7:30pm Tryon Fine Arts Center, Tryon, NC $30 / $24 / $24 / $12 Ticket reservations and info: www.JamieLaval.com • (206) 226-5663

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Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 7

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Sometimes the end of the room that is designated as year can feel like one has my actual art studio. It’s run a poorly-organized race, nice to have a separate full of dodgy obstacles. space. And while I’m not a The visual in my head messy artist, still, I’m glad is of me finally crawling, I don’t have carpet in that bloody-knuckled, across room. a muddy finish line under I’m happily honor-bound a brooding, rainy sky. I to the memories that keep know: SO sunshiny, right? me going, and for the new Practically post-apocalyptic experiences along the way zombification. But I’m that keep me thinking. I just attempting to present have described previously a picture in your mind, about how our pasts can “Gratitude For Small Gifts” 2016, illustration by because it’s what creatives serve as fuel for creating.

Greg Vineyard do. We illustrate stories Not just topically, but even using words and pictures to at a sense-memory level: it’s contribute to a narrative. Often in connection easier to capture the blue of a certain sky if you with — or at least feeding into — the big picture can really FEEL what it was like to be standing that is our shared, complex, seemingly jumbled under it, absorbing the temperature, hearing the journey on the big blue marble. One of my breeze in the trees. Remembering good times, personal resolutions a year ago was to be more and laughter, really helps me when attempting grateful for things in my life, and that has mostly to draw the floating, frolicking, happy animals worked out. But it doesn’t mean I’m not also a that tend to flow out of my brain, through my wee bit tired at this point. fingers, and onto paper. The current decade or As an artist, I’m indebted to every scrap of so, at the age range in which I now find myself, paper I drew on in my youth. At my stepfather’s has revealed much more awareness about not office, they had a massive overrun on these just my own psychological state, but also of green paper flyers, and we drew on the backs of the community and the country. The emotional those for literally years, nearly every single day. aspects of humankind are fascinating, and add I’m thankful for every notebook, every Peeto my conceptual attempts.

Chee folder, and brown paper book cover, Over the years of columns full of musings on because I doodled on every square inch of them. a wide variety of topics, I have trended toward (When I was a kid, we had to MAKE book covers upbeat encouragement about seeking and ourselves out of grocery bags. After walking finding inspiration, creating no matter what, and uphill to school. Both ways. In the snow!) I’m never giving up. Really sensing how grateful I still quite fond of drawing with ball point pens on am for even the little things in my art life – and in lined paper. I was that nerdy, artistic, bullied kid life in general – is a daily missive. And gratitude who only had control over one thing: the pen in begets more of the same, so it’s a good regimen my hand. Art was my safe zone. Still is. when I’m truly in it. For anyone not feeling it, I I’m grateful I have dedicated space in which to recommend a card table and some art supplies create art today. There was a period in the early for starters. You never know what may come of 90’s where I didn’t draw much, and I was advised such a simple action. to place a card table in the corner with a pad of Wishing you the best. paper and some pencils on it. That evolved into every next apartment becoming a studio that Greg Vineyard is a marketinghappened to have a bed in it somewhere. Now, communications professional, and an while I very regularly do sketching and prep work artist and writer living in Asheville. ZaPOW at my desk while watching Netflix, final color Gallery carries his illustrations, prints and cards. www.gregvineyardillustration.com work and many other projects happen in the

8 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

CONCERT SERIES

Jewish Jazz comes to Asheville “Jewish Jazz becomes our National Music.”

This was the headline of the August 6, 1921 edition of the Dearborn Independent, Henry Ford’s blatantly antisemitic and racist weekly paper. In his attempt to blame the Jews for “destroying the morals of American gentile youth and causing the young people to imitate the drivel of morons,” Ford and his lackeys opined that “Jazz is a Jewish creation...the mush, the slush, the sly suggestion, the abandoned sensuousness of sliding notes, are all of Jewish origin.”

While Ford’s hyperbole was clearly meant to frighten Christian America, he did accurately note some connections between Jewish music and the new American Jazz.

The next AmiciMusic concert, called “JEWISH JAZZ,” will explore some of those connections in a more positive light and highlight the symbiosis that occurred in the first decades of the 20th century as new waves of Jewish immigrants met up with the AfricanAmerican migrants leaving the South to flock to New York City.

While Jazz was certainly not a “Jewish creation,” AmiciMusic hopes to show how certain elements of the Jewish scale as well as the plaintive, more expressive, style of Jewish Klezmer playing were definitely a part of American Jazz as it developed through the 1920’s and beyond.

Indeed, most of the composers of the Great American Songbook, such as Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, Jerome Kern and Richard Rodgers, were all sons of Jewish immigrants, some of whom were cantors in Eastern Europe before they came.

Great Jewish jazz instrumentalists, most notably the clarinetists Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw, often got their early training in Synagogues and then used their Klezmer technique

to push the Jazz envelope in new and different directions.

As an example, the opening of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” with the clarinet sliding seductively to the top, is borrowed directly from Klezmer music making it perhaps as American as matzoh ball soup! Clarinetist Daniel Weiser Steve Loew and pianist Daniel Weiser have performed all around the world and will team up for this program, performing several Klezmer-style pieces as well as works

by Joplin, Gershwin, Goodman and more. Loew is a former member of the US Marine Band, who has played for five different Presidents, and has also performed with the New York Philharmonic and National Symphony.

Weiser, the founder and Artistic Director of AmiciMusic, is a former US Artistic Ambassador of Music, who has performed in over 15 countries, including Israel, Egypt, Thailand and Syria, as well as in great halls such as Carnegie Hall.

IF YOU GO

This program can be heard in four different venues in the region during the weekend of December 15-18:

Thursday, Dec. 15 at 7:30pm at All Soul’s Cathedral in Biltmore Village.

Friday, Dec. 16 at 6pm at Agudas Israel Congregation at 505 Glasgow Lane in Hendersonville.

Saturday, Dec. 17 at 2pm at White Horse Black Mountain.

Sunday, Dec. 18 at 2pm at Beth Israel Synagogue in Asheville For complete information on venues and prices, please visit www.amicimusic.org.

Or contact Artistic Director Daniel Weiser at (802) 369-0856 or via email at daniel@ amicimusic.org.

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 9

310 ART

RV RV

How you can make art part of your life and create art in a small place

By Fleta Monaghan RV

As a new year approaches,

thoughts turn toward positive personal changes.

Perhaps you go to the gym, watch your diet, walk as much as possible, and are doing everything to keep your body fit. What about your spirit?

Sometimes we do the physical activities and forget about the mind and body connection.

How can you develop some creative practices and make creativity part of your regular

routine?

Creativity is a life enhancing experience. Being creative is known to be healing to the mind and body. Human beings have been making art from the start of our species. Our recorded history is mostly visual art that tells the story of past cultures and community life. We are not very different from our ancestors thousands of years ago except we live in a fast paced global community

‘Space’ continued pg. 12 RV

RV

10 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

River Arts District

RP

191 Lyman St.

Riverview Station Asheville

To place an ad on these ‘RAD’ pages please call Dennis Ray at (828) 646-0071

• Classes • Workshops • Demos

828-225-5000

RD

RS

RV

JohnMacKah.com

RF

RC

RV RP RG RJ RT

RB

RL

RV

RN RD RL

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 11

Shop, Eat, Explore. . . Everyday, All Year Round ‘Space’ continued from pg. 10

pastels, small collage and alcohol inks or now with so many options it is hard to slow down. Setting aside a little time to be other types of inks. Even oils and acrylics in smaller container sizes create is a way to relax are easy to set up and and explore meditative store. Explore different practice. Many times we materials. Starting with a make resolutions to be pencil and pen works. more creative and make A dining room table might art. So what stops us? provide plenty of space First, let me say to set up. An end table everyone has an artist can be covered and used inside. I hear over and for paints while you have over the comment, “I just them out. A small folding do not have any talent.” table could be the solution.

The concept of talent is a They are lightweight, and myth. Learning, practice It doesn’t take much space to paint easy to fold and slide into a (even if it is in short 15 closet when not in use. Get minute segments) and a reusable plastic table cover that you can a joyful optimistic attitude is all that is fold up and store in your toolbox. required to make lovely art and have a For an easel, a plein air type could be fun and peaceful experience every day. the perfect option. They have a drawer for Drawing, painting and other ways to storage of paints and brushes, legs that express yourself in visual art is relaxing, can be folded up so the box can be used healthy and rejuvenating. So don’t let any preconceived notions of “talent” stop you. on a table top. There are also small table top easels for as little as ten dollars that Secondly, I often hear the comment take up very little room.

“I do not have space in my home to be Some options for keeping your art creative.” Since I have worked over the supplies organized might be a suitcase on years in all sorts of spaces from small wheels or a rolling toolbox. You can move apartments to basement studios, I have to a corner or closet when not in use and been accustomed to working with space easily roll out when needed. limitations. Here are a few tips to help you With these few items you can set up a get started, be successful and find a life simple work area on a semi-permanent enhancing practice keeping you healthy, basis for a few days or a few weeks. For young and vital on the inside. company you can quickly pack up your Most folks have an area of the home small home studio and put supplies away as their main hang out. For small space in a designated space. creativity, this room is the best to use.

This type of small space studio is good Already you feel comfortable there. If for working on smaller format artworks and that room is used by others, find the next the concerns of space and storage can best place that is quiet and you can have be solved by working on art paper. Once some privacy. Ask your family to give you your work is dry, you can put into a box or uninterrupted time to create. portfolio and slide it under the bed. There Find an art form which suits both you and your space. There are many mediums are so many types of art paper today.

Choices include yupo paper, watercolor that require little space to work and store. papers, oil paper that needs no priming, Some options are watercolor, pastels, printing paper, even decorative and rice colored pencils and drawing materials, oil papers.

12 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

For artwork needing to dry, use a piece of string and some clothes pins and run a “artline” across a wall in a little used area of your house. Just clip the artwork up while drying. If you have a spare bed, cover with a plastic cover, and lay your work out to dry. Once completely dry, wrap in waxed paper or layer between glass and put into the portfolio until you are ready to frame or mount the work.

For immediate display use binder clips suspended from push pins and hang on your wall.

Make a plan and write it down. Why not start out simple. Having some morning coffee? Pick up a small sketchbook for 15 minutes and draw what you see outside, or make a sketch of your cat or dog. If you are having a meal with a friend, pull out your little sketchbook and do a pen drawing of your environment. Take a small brush and color it in with wine or tea!

Find community and learn at the same time. Whether you have some experience in the arts or are just beginning, seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. You will grow and advance quickly. And, you will make new friends you will have for a lifetime. Even long time artists take workshops and classes.

Just like diet and exercise, adding creativity to your routine is a lifestyle change. Keep at it, stick to a reasonable schedule that works for you and before you know it creativity will be a major part of your life.

Happy Creating!!

Fleta Monaghan is a painter and founder and director of 310 ART, the oldest independent fine art school for adults in the region. Her adjoining gallery is located in the River Arts District of Asheville and features her paintings and the work of 25 top local artists. 191 Lyman Street, #310, Asheville www.310art.com, Gallery@310art.com IF YOU GO

ART CLASSES

ART CLASSES ARROWHEAD GALLERY Hand and or Wheel Clay Classes Weds. 1-3pm, $115 members $125 non-members for 4 classes (need not be consecutive).

Fine Art with Lorelle Art Classes with Lorelle Bacon. Tuesdays 9:30 - 11:30am. Four classes $65 for A3L members and $75 for nonmembers.

Classes need not be consecutive.

These classes are for beginners through advanced students. Each student chooses the medium and subject they want to learn more about. This is a gentle nonthreatening atmosphere where each student works at their own pace and students encourage each other. Call Lorelle for more information at 828595-6007.

Free Sunday Painters Second Sunday of each month from 2-4pm.

We have a different project and medium that we work on each month. Sunday Painters is always free and always open to the public, but we ask that after your first two sessions you join and if you can that you bring your own materials.

Kids Art Classes with Jake Moury.

1st Saturday of each month from 10-noon, 4 classes $50 or $15/ class.

All Classes held at Arrowhead Gallery and Studios, Arrowhead Gallery and Studios 78C Catawba Ave. Old Fort. For more information go to www.arrowheadart.org

310 ART AT RIVERVIEW STATION Marvelous Mondays with Lorelle and Nadine Beginner and Up! Open art studios Mondays with instructor to guide you - start and continue year round in our Monday classes, 9:30-12:30pm and 1-4pm. Come the dates that work for you!

December 2

See 310art.com for schedule and sign up. Beginners welcomed!

Workshops:

Coming in the New Year - Creating in a Small SpaceIntermediate Painting Jan & 19Watercolor with Nadine Jan 21stBlock Printing Small Work Feb 4thExperimental Watercolor Feb 9thLongstitch Library Feb 18 & 19Encaustic Comprehensive Feb 25 & 26 Classes for adults at 310 ART, 191 Lyman Street, #310, Asheville, NC 28801 www.310art.com gallery@310art.com (828)776-2716 Adult classes, beginner and up, most materials provided. Register online or at the studio.

The cost of Studio space is approximately $1.00 per square foot per month. The rental fee includes parking, wireless internet and all utilities, except any phone service that an artist may want. The cost of floor, wall, or shelf space in the Gallery is $30 per month.

ART CLASSES: Want to list your classes coming in November? $25 includes 50 words INTERESTED? Call (828) 646-0071 • info@rapidrivermagazine.com Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 13

HOLIDAY ART SHOPPING

Exceptional products for gifts and home decorations.

These oil candles are just brilliant! Not only do they create a lovely ambiance for your Christmas or romantic dinner, but they look fantastic, last longer than regular candles, are homemade, and will make your home smell absolutely delicious.

Ideal for storing knick-knacks, these artistic canisters will complete your living space.

BlackBird Frame & Art expanded gifts, cards and fine art prints for the Holiday season

The search for exceptional products to offer North Asheville has turned up some unique offerings: Nature-inspired, glass-encased paraffin oil candles that are refillable for a lifetime of pleasure, hand-crafted in Arkansas. Handmade Japanese puzzle boxes of varying difficulty, even one designed to hold a bottle of wine – an entertaining gift presentation. Exquisite letterpress note cards and an exclusive selection of artistic cards made from handmade recycled paper, beautiful for the simplicity of their design. Craftsmanmade kaleidoscopes produced in NC from several wood species. Unusual ceramic tile designs sporting abstract patterns from a NYC artist. Table bases fashioned in NC from machinery gears

and welded steel BlackBird’s staff has enriched the ensemble with their own creations: abstract paintings and monoprints by John Nelson, finely crafted wooden keepsake boxes by Anabel Winitsky, and Jesse Lee’s handsome mirror frames of copper and salvaged tin.

Associated with BlackBird for over 10 years, Lee’s work has found its way into many of the area’s finest homes. To these, add back-painted-glass mirrors, a delightful Peruvian design that is equally comfortable in Biltmore Forest and West Asheville settings. Finally, two unique selections of photo frames – colorful, modern Lucite designs from Prisma frames, and unusual glass & metal combinations, both modern and old-

ARTS AND CULTURE NOTE:

fashioned, from J. Devlin.

Of course, BlackBird has always offered fine art prints, like Arts & Crafts style block prints from Laura Wilder, Matthew Brown and Andrea Starkey. Through December, the Asheville Printmakers Group is showing “Unframed II” a choice selection of new works from this informal group of artists dedicated to advancing the printmaking craft. These are joined by an exhibit of beautiful pottery creations by Kathy Mack, displaying her talent for the first time since moving to Asheville.

IF YOU GO

BlackBird Frame & Art 365 Merrimon Ave, Asheville (828) 225-3117

ARTS STRENGTHEN THE ECONOMY The US Bureau of Economic Analysis reports that the arts and culture sector represents 3.25 percent of the nation’s GDP — a larger share of the economy than tourism and agriculture. The nonprofit arts industry alone generates $135 billion in economic activity annually (spending by organizations and their audiences) that supports 4.1 million jobs and generates $22.3 billion in government revenue. (Source US Bureau of Economic Analysis)

14 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

FINE ART

Bomer works on the commission “The Calling”

“Water into Wine”

Discussing the Water into Wine/The Wedding Wine! (Jesus’ First Miracle at Cana)

Grace Carol Bomer celebrates the Majesty of God through art River Arts District artist, Grace Carol Bomer, who has been at 140 D Roberts St. for eight years has found a new large

studio space where she can work and teach

— studio #6 at The Warehouse Studios 170 Lyman Street.

“I love the 600 sq ft of old wood floors, high ceilings and crumbling brick walls,” Grace Carol Bomer says. “The train goes right by my windows, but according to the history of the RAD I am on ‘the original right side of the tracks.’”

Bomer, currently working on two commissioned paintings, is teaching oil and wax painting as well as a Bible study currently on the seven visions of Revelation.

Fitting, because as she points out, “The Word of God” informs her work.

Her paintings often attempt to capture biblical truths that are difficult to paint in a realistic style. She layers oil paint and wax abstractly but also creates subtle shapes, marks, words and even

“realistic” objects allowing viewers glimpses of deeper meaning and an everlasting Story.

“This layering of words and images point to the Incarnation, when Jesus, Word of God, became man and lived among us,” she explains. “This divine juncture also brings realism and abstraction together.”

One of the commissioned paintings is “The miracle at the Wedding Feast at Cana,” the first of seven miracles recorded by John, who also wrote the Book of Revelation with its seven visions.

She says, “I was commissioned to paint the awe and wonder when the wine Jesus made from water was first tasted. This amazing wine was and is a picture or foretaste (no pun intended) of the awe and wonder of heaven itself and the celebration at The Wedding Feast of the Lamb.”

In the lower part of the painting are six water jars, the wedding feast and

By Staff Reports

the miracle happening. The central jar is the crucible of the cross where Jesus mediates between heaven and earth and out of Jesus’ pierced side blood and water flowed. This is the crux or focal point where his blood sacrifice for sin made celebration in heaven possible.

You may be able to see his thorncrowned head in the red central stem which developed into a chalice connecting heaven and earth. Christ is looking down on his mother Mary’s face in the base of the chalice. At the top of the chalice (or is it a crown?) you can see the figure of the Bride meeting her lover and on the left side, the Lamb of God. The chalice also suggests Holy Communion, the sacrament Jesus instituted for his “bride” while she awaits full and perfect communion in heaven.

Blues, reds and golds symbolize the colors of water, blood and Spirit—the three bear witness to this miracle. The gold leaf is an important symbol for glory.

‘Grace’ continued pg. 29

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 15

isit

V

Asheville’s Longest Established Fine Art Gallery with 31 Regional Artists

Asheville Gallery of Art 's November Artist

‘All Squared Away’ a focus on small work Asheville Gallery of Art’s December show, Avenue in Asheville, across from “All Squared Away,” will feature small Pritchard Park. work by 21 member artists.

A wide range of subject matter, media, and styles will be represented. Those All pieces will be 18 inches square participating in the show enjoy the or smaller. The show will run from challenge of working small and within December 1-31 during gallery hours limited perimeters. Artist Jane Molinelli 11-6pm. Monday-Saturday and 1-4pm said, “Small paintings can be just as Sundays. The public is cordially invited dynamic and energetic as large ones to a reception for the artists on Friday, while providing a focal point or touch of December 2, 5-8pm. color and interest to any collection.”

The gallery is located at 82 Patton Asheville Gallery of Art hopes art

16 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

By Staff Reports

lovers will not only enjoy the show, but will use it to purchase affordable (and packable) works of art by local artists for holiday gift giving. As well as the small works in the show, the works of the 31 artists will be on display and for sale through December.

Asheville Gallery of Art at (828) 2515796, visit the gallery website at www. ashevillegallery-of-art.com, or go to the gallery Facebook page.

IF YOU GO

COVER ARTIST

By Patricia Cotterill

By Patricia Cotterill

By Patricia Cotterill (detail)

The incredible style of Patricia Cotterill pulls the viewer in Patricia Cotterill was born in Scotland and now resides in Asheville NC. Cotterill studied Graphic Arts at the Lincoln College of Art, Lincoln, England before working in graphic Design and becoming the Display Manager for a chain of stores for Southern England.

After raising two daughters while residing in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and various US states, Patricia now calls Asheville home with her husband Stuart. Living in different countries has influenced her art, whether in subject matter, technique or style. Shape, color and light are transformed onto canvas giving a glimpse into scenes of everyday life,

whether it be a still life, animal or figurative. Cotterill’s works in oils can be seen at her Studio in the River Arts District, Woolworth Walk and the Red House, in Black Mountain, NC. See her work at: www.patriciacotterill.com River Arts District at the Riverside Studios 174 W Haywood Street Asheville, NC 28802 www.riversidestudios-asheville.com www.riverartsdistrict.com Red House Studios and Gallery 310 W State St .

Black Mountain, NC 28711 • Phone number(828) 669-0351

IF YOU GO

‘Odyssey’ continued from pg. 4

crafted, handmade gift for the holidays at any price point and for the table, wall or mantel.

You will find tile works, figurative and animal sculptures, paintings on clay, wheel-thrown functional pottery, lanterns, hand built and pinched pottery all within our small gallery.

Each one of these forming methods is featured in the gallery as well as a large variety of clays and surface techniques – from wood-fired, salt-fired, matte and gloss

glazes, Raku as well as earthenware, stoneware and porcelain. Every artist comes to their work and clay with such a unique voice! Visit the Gallery for special events each first Saturday of the month with live music, beer and wine and snacks.

And keep going back, as every month there are new featured artists and every two months the gallery gets a complete makeover with new work.

IF YOU GO

www.odysseycoopgallery.com 238 Clingman Ave., Asheville (828) 285-9700

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 17

More of what Makes Asheville Special: Dining • Shopping • Galleries • Music

D ow n tow n A s h ev i l l e

Ring in a Joyous New Year with the Asheville Symphony Ring in a Joyous New Year with the Asheville Symphony’s Performance of Beethoven’s Ninth December 31

celebrate the New Year with performances of this towering musical work, which celebrates hope and brotherhood.

This year Asheville will ring in the New Year with an unforgettable musical celebration featuring The Asheville the Asheville Symphony Symphony Chorus, and four guest presents what’s vocal soloists. sure to be a hot Guest vocalist Soprano Danielle Pastin “Few works in the entire ticket on New repertoire loom as large as Year’s Eve—a Beethoven’s Ninth,” says performance of ASO Music Director Daniel Meyer.

Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. Each “Performed across the globe at New year orchestras around the world Drug and alcohol addiction is painful.

Finding the right treatment doesn’t have to be.

Year’s, this symphony takes on a hopeful meaning when the chorus sings Schiller’s ‘Ode to Joy.’ As an interpreter, I love the opportunity to breathe new life into this iconic work, and I am thrilled to offer this as a special holiday performance to ring in 2017.”

The Asheville Symphony Chorus will join the ASO for the concert, under the direction of Michael Lancaster.

The performance will also feature four guest vocalists: Soprano Danielle Pastin, Mezzo-Soprano Kirstin Chavez, Tenor Rolando Sanz, and Bass Steven Condy.

‘New Year’ continued next pg.

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18 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

Downtown Asheville — Dining • Shopping • Galleries • Music Grovewood Gallery in Asheville Invites You to Sip & Shop The Holiday Sip & Shop event at Grovewood Gallery will take place over two weekends: Dec. 9 - 10 and Dec. 16 - 17, 10 - 6pm

at Flack Rock and was recently featured in Who’s Who in American Art.

During this special event, all gallery merchandise will be 10% off. Holiday shoppers can also take in craft demonstrations by local artists and enjoy complimentary wine, warm cider and cookies.

All demonstrating artists will have original works of art for sale December 9 (11am – 4pm)Painter Cynthia Wilson will demonstrate acrylic layering on canvas. Wilson, known for her brilliantly colored landscape paintings, was juried into the inaugural Art in Bloom show at The Gallery

Fiber artist Karen Kennedy will demonstrate needlefelting using locally dyed wool, creating pumpkins and snowmen. Karen is a graduate of Haywood Ornament by Angelyn Pass Community College’s Professional Crafts Program December 10 (11am – 4pm) Doll maker Charlie Patricolo will work on cloth dolls in various stages of completion

‘Grovewood’ continued pg. 29

www.SusanMPhippsDesigns.com 4 Biltmore Avenue 21 828.277.1272

‘New Year’ continued

There will also be a celebratory after party to ring in the New Year.

Details available closer to the concert.

IF YOU GO

Joyous New Year Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. December 31, 8pm.

Thomas Wolfe Auditorium Tickets are $22-$74, depending on seating section (reduced youth pricing is available). Single tickets and season ticket packages can be purchased online at ashevillesymphony.org, by phone at (828) 254-7046, or in person at the US Cellular Center box office at 87 Haywood St.

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Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 19

Drinks&Dining Guide

Too many people just eat to consume calories. Try dining for a change.

—John Walters

pg.

26 WB

20 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

To Place an ad in our Dining Section please call Rick Hills at (828) 452-0228

Drinks&Dining Guide Too many people just eat to consume calories. Try dining for a change.

—John Walters

Sonora Restaurant brings authentic Mexican food to Asheville

By Staff Reports

[suh·nohr·uh] “Sonora honors the tradition of hospitality, not as an industry, but as a way of life. Our Sonoran Mexican cuisine is created to offer a

taste of culture and a touch

of innovation. It is the passion that drives us and our belief

that there is joy and freedom in service.”

Authentic northern Mexican food is about depth, flavor, warmth, and comfort.

It evokes feelings of family and tradition. Bursting with flavor and life, Mexican food should stimulate your taste buds and satiate your hunger. The region of Sonora is the second largest state and largest producer

of copper in Mexico. The economy also relies heavily on ranching and agriculture which resonates through the history of the food. It shares the US - Mexico border with Arizona, New Mexico and the Gulf of California which has greatly influenced Mexican food in the Southwest US. At Sonora Restaurant they work to capture the essence of traditional Sonoran Mexican cuisine, bringing the history and culture to life with each dish. Having the ability to appreciate the beauty of the individual ingredients allows for the composition of each meal to be a perfect melding of flavors. Using only quality meats, fresh produce,

and authentic spices is the way they honor the people of Sonora and the generations of families gathered together to share meals. The owners of Sonora each have a deep personal connection to the food and drinks they create and a fierce love for the space in Asheville Sonora occupies. They offer much more than just tacos, botanas, entradas, and tequilas. They are a destination for hospitality, service and sharing in the tradition of the culture of Sonoran Mexican food.

IF YOU GO

Sonora Restaurant 89 Patton Ave, Asheville (828) 232-7370

Wine ∙ Beer ∙ Cigars ∙ Gifts Restaurant ∙ Live Music

CIGARS Now at the Classic Wineseller 20 Church Street, Waynesville, NC 828-452-6000 www.classicwineseller.com

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 21

Drinks&Dining Guide

In England, a pub is more than just a place to drink

By Staff Reports

For centuries, the local pub was a place you were at almost as much as you were home.

It was a place to socialize and unwind, and in latter years to watch your favorite team play. Somewhere to eat a hearty pie and have a pint (a 20 oz. at that), around people you know and care about, family and friends. And that’s the essence of Pete’s Pies, downtown Asheville’s newest British pub.

Located at 62 N. Lexington Avenue, Pete’s Pies will open Friday, December 9. You can find them through the cast iron gate (signage posted) on Lexington or the alley off Carolina Dr., both entrances will lead you to their spacious

courtyard, hidden away from the bustle of the city. Planning on taking full advantage of this space, Pete’s Pies has comfortable outdoor seating equipped with heated umbrellas, will host live events, and maintain a seasonal flower and herb garden.

The interior space is modeled after a traditional British Pub: cozy, warm and welcoming. Cooking occurs in the open-kitchen dining room, where the smells of hearty pastry & rich stews waft out to the courtyard.

Pete Waissen, Owner/Operator and Executive Chef Joshua Jones collaborated to bring the best of their backgrounds together to create an

authentic menu that also highlights Asheville’s local agriculture.

Born & raised in London, Pete began cooking alongside his Mum at a young age. Many of the recipes found on their menu were used to feed his eight siblings. Joshua trained under some of the best chefs in Italy and moved to Asheville last year in order to raise his own family.

Pete’s Pies 62 N. Lexington Avenue www.petespiesavl.com Come meet the Pete Waissen – he’s thrilled to be bringing a little piece of England across the pond to you.

IF YOU GO

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Light into the world “The LORD is my light and my salvation.”

— Psalms 27:1 “I am come a light into the world.”

— John 12:46 “Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth.”

— Quran 24:35 “Be a light unto yourself.”

—Buddha A fundamental difference between Buddhism and what are called the Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam is that while the three Abrahamic religions point to salvation through faith in a deity outside oneself, Buddhism points within our own consciousness for the source of salvation, and faith has to do not with a deity but rather with one’s own capacity to realize this salvation.

All four religions share in common the acknowledgment of ignorance as the source of suffering in the world and have at times symbolized it as darkness while symbolizing salvation as light. But while Judaism, Christianity and Islam hold ignorance of the salvational power of God to be what will lead us to sin, Buddhism holds that it is ignorance of our own pure and true nature that is the obscurant that needs the light of the dharma (Buddhist teachings) to point us toward the Buddha (awakened Being) that resides within us all.

All these religions use the image of light as that which can cast away the darkness, but as Buddhism teaches that separation is an illusion; there can be no separation of sacred source from everyday people and everyday life. How could there be? The light is within you, not in any deity or deity’s representatives outside you. Buddha’s teachings are to guide you to finding that light which is already within you, to the light that is you.

Although “sin” is not talked about in Buddhism, if it were, it would be used in the original etymological meaning of the word – from the Greek, “to miss the mark.”

In other words, to be ignorant of your own pure nature arising within the purity of nature, missing the mark of the unity of all that is.

The grace of no outside deity or prophet is needed, and while Buddhism does not speak of grace, if it did, it would say that grace fills all the world, including every human. While the Western religions require faith in a God that most cannot experience and obedience to the religion’s teachings, Buddhism simply advises

ZEN PHILOSOPHY WITH BILL WALZ

us to look deeply enough within our own consciousness and into the consciousness energy that fills the world to give validation to that which we have already experienced, to that we experience when we are so moved by the beauty of a sunset across the mountains or a deep encounter with another person that we forget ourselves and become the purity of that moment stopped in time. While Christianity teaches that sufficient faith in God and Jesus will bring “the peace that surpassed understanding,” Buddhism teaches that such peace has always been accessible to those who are able to penetrate the obscurantism of the false self known as ego to realize themselves as consciousness witness to Creation.

Buddhism teaches that Creation, the Universe itself, is the Sacred Source, and grace fills every atom, born in the fire of the stars. It teaches that when the false ego-self does not hold center stage in consciousness, the world of Creation reveals itself in the light of consciousness and all the world is experienced in the timeless beauty of selfless awareness, the light that dispels the darkness of ignorance separating us from Creation.

This obscuring ignorance is the belief in a self that is separate from Creation; but when awareness (the individual) turns inward, seeing consciousness (universal) recognizing its own source, and then directs awareness into the world, the realization awakens — that inward and outward are only perspectives within the One Reality. A great Zen koan exhorts, “Not two!” but then goes on to remind us, “Not one.” We live in a spiritual unity that manifests as a material duality. This paradox realized shines the light of awareness that can never fail. Light fills the world for those with the eyes to see.

Look! This is all that Buddhism taught and all that Jesus brought, and it is a tragedy that what Jesus brought was turned into darkness by those who taught humanity as fallen and separate, for we are all the sons and daughters of Creation. “In the beginning…the earth was without form and void…And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.”

Modern astrophysics tells us that the Big Bang began the Universe with pure photonic energy, the energy of light, and that the Universe, in its evolution cooled and expanded and atomic matter was born as hydrogen, then helium, and so on as matter complexified within the unity of the Universe,

and brought forth stars and planets and life from the most simple, single-celled organism to humans with brains that are the most complex organization of matter in the known Universe manifesting the most complex consciousness. And the consciousness that brought forth the original light resides in every atom of this Universe and in the mysteries of Dark Energy and Dark Matter, and we need not look to mythical deities, for, as Zen teaches us, “Just This.” Nothing more is needed. The light is everywhere. You can call it God if you want to, but look no further than the stars in the sky or the miracle of your own opposable-thumbed hand that allows you to grasp the physical world or your own cerebral cortex that allows you read the squiggles on this paper and give them meaning, or the silent intelligence of your intuitive mind that allows you to grasp infinity.

The light of intelligent consciousness fills the Universe, is the Universe, and is you and me. How could it be otherwise? In Buddhism, this is the faith that needs no miracles, for it is ignorance not to see miracles everywhere.

Bill Walz has taught meditation and mindfulness in university and public forums and is a private-practice meditation teacher and guide for individuals in mindfulness, personal growth and consciousness. Information on classes, talks, personal growth and healing instruction, or phone consultations at (828)258-3241, e-mail at healing@billwalz. com Learn more, see past columns, video and audio programs at www.billwalz.com

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 23

LIVE THEATRE

Premiere of ‘Snowbound’ hits ACT this December

By Staff Reports

Asheville Community Theatre is proud to premiere a new holiday play this

December: local playwright, musician, and storyteller

Tom Godleski’s Snowbound.

Snowbound is a new play written by Asheville native and winner of SART’s 2009 Scriptfest competition, Tom Godleski.

The play will include original bluegrass music played live onstage by members of Buncombe Turnpike and Sons of Ralph.

Though the play is fictional, Godleski used authentic stories and details to create a family-friendly piece celebrating the season of giving.

“This play was such a joy to write I don’t even remember sitting down to work on it,” says Godleski. “I have always wanted to write a Christmas song, and Snowbound inspired me to write two. I am honored and blessed Asheville Community Theatre has chosen Snowbound for their 2016 season.”

Snowbound takes place on Christmas Eve in 1955 at a small town train depot where the snowy weather has caused some delays. Over the course of the evening, strangers become friends,

friends become family, and the warmth of human connection is deepened through stories and songs.

Tom G Though the odleski weather outside is frightful, inside the depot it’s delightful as memories of Christmases past are shared.

ACT’s production will be the World Premiere. “I was really intrigued by the idea of helping to create a brand new show. It’s a heartwarming story, with lots of characters very similar to the people I grew up with,” says director Mark Jones,

also an Asheville native. “This show is about real people, who are doing their best to have a Merry Christmas, despite Mother Nature.”

Over 80 actors auditioned for the 30 parts.

Snowbound, also includes the band members (Don Lewis, Marty Lewis, David Hyatt, Seth Rhinehart and Tom Godleski) and 13 local children.

“This is a wonderful

24 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

show for everyone to enjoy together,” says Susan Harper, Executive Director. “It showcases authentic WNC culture, specifically our music and our storytelling heritage.

It is truly a community play.”

The community involvement doesn’t end at the stage.

Catawba Brewing created Snowbound Winter Warmer, a beer inspired by the play.

Snowbound Winter Warmer will be available at all three Catawba Brewing taprooms until December 18. It will also be available at the ACT Concession Stand December 2-18. A portion of the proceeds from each pint sold will be donated to ACT. Snowbound is directed

by Mark Jones. ACT is offering a special for all Opening Weekend tickets.

For Opening Weekend only, all adult, senior, and student tickets are $18 (children 17 and under are still $12). Includes complimentary champagne on Opening Night, complimentary chocolate on Saturday night, and a talkback with the cast and crew after the Sunday matinée.

Asheville Community Theatre Snowbound Dec. 2-18, performances Friday and Saturday nights 7:30pm and Sunday 2:30pm.

Tickets are available Online www.ashevilletheatre.org.

(828)254-1320

IF YOU GO

LIVE THEATRE

‘45th Annual Bernstein Family Christmas’ returns Going to the River Arts District to see

“We look forward to connecting with the cockles of the hearts of our fans this holiday season,” Gray says.

The show is expected to sell-out, so advance ticket purchase is highly recommended.

The Magnetic Theatre, founded in 2009, has been a leading theatre in WNC since its formation, and the annual Bernstein Christmas Spectacular has become perhaps the most anticipated annual theatre event in WNC — don’t miss this essential element of the holidays in Asheville.

what new frontiers of debauchery the

Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular will boldly cross has become an annual tradition for many

Ashevillians.

The show, a holiday sketch comedy romp delights audiences with completely new material each year.

It has managed to sell-out nearly every performance for the past six years.

This will be the second year the delightfully drunken Bernsteins will be in Magnetic 375, on Depot Street, the home of the The Magnetic Theatre.

While the cast remains unchanged for the third straight year, the show will see a new director at the helm for the first time since 2012.

Jeff Catanese, well-known to Asheville audiences from work with Attic Salt Theatre Company as well as Asheville Community Theatre, is directing the Bernstein crew this season.

“All of the Bernsteins have been excited about the new energy Jeff brings to the team,” says the show’s producer Chall Gray. “Sex-crazed Judy Bernstein complimented both his

By Staff Reports

Directed by Jeff Catanese.

Jonathon Edwards Scenic Design by Kehren Barbour.

stamina and smooth pectorals, and stoner Jimbo Bernstein described his lung capacity as ‘whoa.’”

The Bernsteins’ R-rated screwball skewering of various holiday traditions and tropes was described by Tony Kiss of Asheville Scene as “The holiday show to see in Asheville.”

The show stars a number of Asheville’s best-known actors, including Darren Marshall and Tracey JohnstonCrum (who was voted best actress in the Mountain Xpress “Best of WNC” for the fourth straight year this summer).

The Bernsteins will bring their signature mix of skits, songs, bong hits, dance numbers and excessive drinking to Magnetic 375 for a limited run (which will, as with all Bernstein Spectaculars, be intended for mature audiences only).

Sound Design by Tommy Calloway.

Choreography and Costumes by Elizabeth Evans. Props by Jim Julien.

Stage Management by Deanna Braine.

Starring Tracey Johnston-Crum, Darren Marshall, Glenn Reed, Erik Moellering, & Kirby Gibson. Written by Lucia Del Vecchio, Genevieve Packer, Peter Lundblad and Jim Julien. Produced by Chall Gray.

IF YOU GO

The 45th Annual Bernstein Family Christmas Spectacular will be performed at Magnetic 375, located at 375 Depot St, in the River Arts District of Asheville, December 1-3, 8-10, 15-17 and 21-23, show times 7:30pm. 10pm late shows Dec. 10 and 17. To purchase tickets, visit www.themagnetictheatre.org.

Advertise with Rapid River Magazine Free Web Links & Ad Design Call (828) 646-0071

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 25

THE POET'S VOICE

Peace We come to December.

I’ve chosen healing words this month from poets who respect our planet, our Paradise, our home. These are also poems of Peace.

Two days after our perplexing election, I need them.

From the textbook.

The Healing Fountain, Poetry Therapy for Life’s Journeys, from the chapter, “Encountering Dilemmas and Life’s Choices,” Nicholas Mazza, Ph.D, RPT writes: “Poetry serves to validate and universalize feelings, promote self-examination and verbalization and instill hope.”

Hope is what I’m short on now. I turn to Wendell Berry. He speaks to us in first person. This poem takes me where I need to be.

When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at the least sound in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be, I go and lie down where the wood drake rests in his beauty on the water and the great heron feeds.

I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time

By Carol Bjorlie — “The Poet behind the cello”

I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

Mary Oliver comforts with these words:

When I Am Among the Trees When I am among the trees, especially the willows and the honey locust, equally the beech, the oaks and pines, they give off such hints of gladness.

I would almost say that they save me, and daily. I am so distant from the hope of myself, in which I have goodness, and discernment, and never hurry through the world but walk slowly and bow often.

Around me the trees stir in their leaves and call out, “Stay awhile.”

The light flows from their branches.

And they call again, “It’s simple,” they say, “and you too have come into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled with light, and to shine.”

A Native American prayer (Ojibway) Grandfather, Look at our brokenness. We know that in all creation Only the human family Has strayed from the Sacred Way. We know that we are the ones Who are divided. And we are the ones

Who must come back together To walk in the Sacred Way. Grandfather, Sacred One, Teach us love, compassion, and honor That we may heal the earth and heal each other.

Finally, The Last Say this month is from Thomas Merton.

What a thing it is to sit absolutely alone, in the forest, at night, cherished by this wonderful unintelligible, perfectly innocent speech, the most comforting speech in the world, the talk that rain makes by itself all over the ridges, and the talk of the watercourses everywhere in the hollows!

Nobody started it, nobody is going to stop it.

It will talk as long as it wants, this rain.

As long as it talks, I am going to listen.

As long as it talks, I am going to listen, too. Oh, I wish Thomas Merton could have known Wendell Berry! I wish Carl Sandburg would give us advice. Thinking of Carl, what would he write after an election like ours?

May we have rain and Peace —Carol Bjorlie

ARTS AND CULTURE NOTE: Advertise with Rapid River Magazine Free Web Links & Ad Design Call (828) 646-0071

ARTS HAVE SOCIAL IMPACT University of Pennsylvania researchers have demonstrated that a high concentration of the arts in a city leads to higher civic engagement, more social cohesion, higher child welfare, and lower poverty rates. A vibrant arts community ensures that young people are not left to be raised solely in a pop culture and tabloid marketplace.

26 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

(Source US Bureau of Economic Analysis)

BOOKS The Goblin Crown Billy Smith and the Goblins, Book 1

By Staff Reports

Billy Smith is having a rough first day of high school. The new kid at exclusive Francis Drake Prep, Billy embarrasses himself in front of fiery, beautiful Lexi Aquino.

He makes an instant enemy in Kurt Novac, the school’s surly star quarterback. Then suddenly Billy, Lexi and Kurt are mysteriously transported to an underworld teeming

with goblins, strange animal hybrids, and powerful magic—the fact that they’re stuck there is probably Billy’s fault, too.

With help from an unlikely goblin leader named Hop, the teens soon discover that goblins can be both fierce and friendly, with their own rich language, culture, and history—a history

that foretells of a human arriving to claim the Goblin Crown and lead them to victory against the deadly, invading Hanorians.

Could Billy—anxious, awkward Billy—be the mythical Goblin King? Could saving the goblin race be his destiny and the key to getting him, Lexi, and Kurt back home?

IF YOU GO

Get it at Malaprop’s: 55 Haywood St. (828)2546734

Spellbound Children’s Bookshop Celebrates 12 Years Back on October 25, 2004, Leslie Hawkins opened the doors of Spellbound Children’s Bookshop.

On that day she embarked on a mission to help raise lifelong readers who are curious, imaginative and independent thinkers by sharing the magic found when you open a book.

Twelve years later, in a wonderful new location in the Merrimon Square, she is proud to still be serving Asheville’s families as a locally owned, independent bookshop specializing in books for babies, kids and teens. The new space is lovely and inviting. You’ll frequently find fun artwork (courtesy of staff member

Kalee) on the windows or the walkway just outside.

In the large main room, just inside, there are picture books, early readers, and books for middle graders and teens. There is a room dedicated to babies and toddlers, and a room that doubles as the event space and a used/bargain book room.

This room features a lovely mural on one wall and can be rented for birthday parties and baby showers. When asked if she could make certain folks knew one thing about the shop, Hawkins replied without hesitation, “That you are welcome here.

Our staff is knowledgeable and the inventory is very carefully selected. It includes a thoughtful mix of classics,

By Staff Reports

popular new titles, and lesser known gems we think shouldn’t be missed.

We work hard to make our inventory representative of our beautifully diverse community. I want every kid who comes into Spellbound to find books about people like them and, just as important, books about people nothing like them”. So the next time you are out and about, stop in, say hello, and discover a place where you, too, can be “spellbound” by the magic of books and reading.

DECEMBER PARTIAL LISTING

We host numerous Readings & Book clubs, as well as Salons!

Visit www.malaprops.com

READINGS & BOOK SIGNINGS LGBTQ BOOK CLUB discusses ‘THE ARGONAUTS’ 12/05 - 7pm WILD BOOK CLUB discusses THE THING ABOUT JELLYFISH 12 / 06 - 7pm CURRENT EVENTS BOOK CLUB discusses ‘THE POLARIZED MIND’ 12/06 - 7pm MISS MALAPROP’S STORY TIME 12/07 - 10am MALAPROP’S BOOK CLUB discusses ‘THE CANTERBURY TALES’ 12/07 - 7pm MYSTERY BOOK CLUB discusses ‘A GREAT DELIVERANCE’ 12 / 12 -7pm DISCUSSION BOUND BOOK CLUB discusses LIFE STUDIES 12/13 - 12pm MISS MALAPROP’S STORY TIME 12/14 - 10am CHARLES VESS presents ‘WALKING THROUGH THE LANDSCAPE OF FAERIE’ 12/14 - 7pm

55 Haywood St.

(828) 254-6734 • 800-441-9829 Monday-Saturday 9AM to 9PM Sunday 9AM to 7PM

pg.

21 M

Spellbound is located in the Merrimon Square Shopping Center at 640 Merrimon Ave. Hours: Tues-Sat 11-7pm. Sun 1-5pm. Closed Mon. (828) 575-2266 www.spellboundbookshop.com

IF YOU GO

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 27

We

e v o L

A Unique Mountain City Experience Dining • Shopping • Galleries • Festivals

Waynesville

Bluegrass musicians Grammy-award winning Marc Pruett and Darren Nicholson play Dec. 8

International Bluegrass Awardwinning musicians Marc Pruett and Darren Nicholson, both members of Balsam Range, will be the featured mountain cultural heroes at December’s Center for Cultural Preservation’s cultural series on Thursday, Dec. 8, 7pm.

In a program titled, Haywood County Musical Traditions, Grammyawarding winning Pruett and Nicholson will perform, recount histories and tell stories about the evolution of mountain music and how their music fits into the larger history. Given Pruett and Nicholson’s multi-generational connection with Appalachian culture and traditions, they are the perfect match for the topic.

Marc Pruett is a seventh generation resident of Haywood County who has performed with many of the greats of mountain music including James Monroe, Jimmy Martin, the Stanley Brothers, Ricky Skaggs and many others. He has been Marc Pruett described by Nashville Network producers as “having the hands of Earl Scruggs and the heart of Lester Flatt!” According to Pruett, “The Southern Appalachian Region has long been a hot-bed for traditional arts and folk music. I’m excited to continue to the tradition through my performances and through teaching hundreds of students how to play banjo.”

Darren Nicholson is also a native of Haywood County and is a nationally acclaimed mandolin player who has appeared countless times on the

‘Bluegrass’ continued next pg.

Elegant Interiors Bringing Your Home Together in an Elegant Manner

Burr Studio

Fine Furnishings and Interior Decorating

WO

39 N. Main St., Waynesville, NC 828-452-3509 • Monday-Saturday 9-5

Gallery of American Art & Craft WP

828-456-7400

136 N. Main Street Waynesville, NC

28 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

WO

Live Webcam www.downtownwaynesville.com

WP

CONTINUED ‘Antiques’ continued from pg. 4

‘Grovewood’ continued pg. 19

wrap. Their pieces are sharp and loaded with beautiful gemstones from all corners of the Earth.

Vicki Shelton their newest artist makes one-of-a-kind beaded jewelry.

She also makes unique aprons from vintage fabrics.

Antiques at Riverview Station is very proud of their little colony of artists. They hope you too will come and enjoy the many talents offered there.

and transform them into delightful creations full of life. Visitors will have the opportunity to enter a free drawing for one of Charlie’s signature dolls.

IF YOU GO

Antiques At Riverview Station 191 Lyman St Ste.110, Asheville, NC (828) 254-4410

‘Bluegrass’ continued

Grand Ole Opry, at the Ryman Auditorium, and many of the world’s most famous venues. Pruett and Nicholson not only offer some of the best mountain music in the country today, but a sense of connection to mountain heritage and traditions that’s heartening as it is inspiring.

This special program will be held at Blue Ridge Community College’s Bo Thomas Auditorium. Tickets www. saveculture.org or by calling the Center at (828) 692-8062.

IF YOU GO

Go

Local

titles published by Lark Crafts.

IF YOU GO

December 16 (11am – 4pm) Jewelry artist Terri Lefler will talk about her design process and demonstrate stone setting. Terri studied under master metalsmith Bill Churlik of Earthspeaks Art, where she developed the foundation and methods that underlie her style.

Visit www.grovewood.com or call (828) 253-7651 for more info.

‘Grace’ continued from pg. 15

The other commission is called “The Fisherman” or “The Calling.” It is contracted of three 20” x 78” panels bolted together. Bomer first supported it horizontally while she water-gilded the surface using silver squares to suggest “the nets of God” and gold on the large figure of the risen Christ.

This is the foundation for the fishing scene of Jesus calling Peter (lower half) and the sending of the 12 at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the church (upper half).

The first commission is on its way to the client and the second should be finished by this Christmas. This will give room for her new work as well as space for workshops. If you are interested in a workshop or interested in a study of God’s Word visit Grace at her new studio or contact her through her Website, www.gracecarolbomer.com.

Fiber artist Karen Kennedy will demonstrate needle-felting using locally dyed wool, creating pumpkins and snowmen.

December 17 (11am – 4pm) Jewelry artist Joanna Gollberg will demonstrate silversmithing, stone setting, and metal piercing techniques. Joanna teaches jewelry making at Penland School of Crafts and at Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts and has written four books on making handcrafted jewelry: Making Metal Jewelry, Creative Metal Crafts, The Art & Craft of Making Jewelry, and The Ultimate Jeweler’s Guide - all

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Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 29

SHORT FICTION - BY PETER LOEWER

The Curmudgeon notes the quality of the Nation’s Press

The weather of late had been drought-driven and the older trees—including most of the olden oaks—sported leaves that all looked as though each had walked the distance from the mountains to Raleigh on I-40. Then there were the many tourists who because of imminent flooding had left their home turfs to sample our hotels and wander around the downtown until high waters receded and life returned to the new normalcy, that is daily blasts of campaign events that were becoming so sleazy they could freeze the breath of most dragons of history, not to mention many politicians.

Mr and Mrs Storekeep, who were at heart, gentle folk, were concerned about the sudden change in the medias presentation of unedited verbal squalor, not only because Mrs Storekeep, when in her pre-teens, had been molested by an uncle who after the incident became known to her parents, had left—without a cloud to hide in—for somewhere in the far west, probably Kansas. Mr

Storekeep who had enjoyed a childhood free from most threats, but having great parents, felt the same about his wife.

Unfortunately, at this time they were caring for Mrs Storekeep’s sister Annie and her husband Chuck’s twin boys (aged 10 years) and trying to edit local television was becoming very difficult, to say the least.

Even though the calendar displayed the page for October days remained hot, the wind blew (pointing out the irony that WNC had endless transmission towers for cell phones, but windmills were, apparently, not to be tolerated) and nights were cooling down so that around 6am there were definite chills in the air.

It was a Friday morning during the week following the second national debate and after opening the store, The Storekeeps were sorting the area newspapers following as time-honored lineup of above-the-fold items when suddenly the door flew open, allowing a low cloud of road dust to drift along the floor, all accompanying The Curmudgeon, his eyes slanted against the dry air and his mouth with a definite downturn at the end of each lip.

“I just don’t understand what’s happened to this country today, especially about where politicians

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30 Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016

should draw the line about campaign behavior especially when it comes to elections,” he announced to nobody in particular since the only folks in the store were the Storekeeps and they were both kneeling on the floor behind the counter counting newspaper returns from the day before.

“What is the problem?” they both asked in unison.

“I am concerned,” he answered, “about the direction of the country especially because I remember magazines like Confidential from my youth and growing up during the times of TV reports on Sen. Joseph McCarty and the Red Scare when the crook was really a crook and had many American’s hoodwinked into believing the government was full of communist agents and other left-wing threats to public morality and—until he was exposed on TV—a lot of folks believed it to be true. And now you are to believe that one of the presidential candidates is guilty of email treason while the other is calling for congressional investigations when such powers were never grated to the President, no matter what party he (or she) belonged to.”

“And,” asked Mrs Storekeep, “how do ‘The Curmudgeon’ continued next pg.

FEATURE FILM REVIEW - MICHELLE KEENAN

‘Manchester By The Sea’ (2016) A fantastic family drama Short Take: A quiet janitor returns to his

hometown when he is awarded guardianship of his teenage nephew. It’s a family drama like none you’ve ever seen before.

REEL TAKE: Manchester By The Sea has been a hotly anticipated film by many a film critic, (myself included) since its warm reception at The Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. Such expectations can work against a film, but not in this case.

Manchester By The Sea is one of the best films of the year. Writer director Kenneth Lonergan will no doubt be a nominee this award season. With this quietly devastating little film he has created a new kind of masterpiece, an unflinching and relentless authentic family drama for the 21st century.

Manchester tells the story of Lee Chandler, a sullen, solitary Boston-area maintenance man who returns to his hometown when his brother (played

by Kyle Chandler) dies. (It’s worth noting the picturesque titular moniker is an actual town on the North Shore in Massachusetts). When Lee learns he has been awarded guardianship of his teenage nephew Patrick (Lucas Hedges), he reluctantly acquiesces, awakening emotional scars from the life he once led there.

The story unfurls through an effective integration of flashbacks and current day.

It soon becomes clear this family has ‘The Curmudgeon’ continued

you explain such actions to children who watch such tripe on TV? I thought Viagra sale pitches were out of line during the dinner hour but this type of reporting really takes the cake!”

“I really don’t know,” said Curmudgeon, “but I’m beginning to wonder if all of our TV’s should be turned off during the so-called nightly news programs but that doesn’t even

Joe. He’s the glue between Joe and Patrick. He’s the glue between Lee and the town, and ultimately he’s the glue between Lee and Lee’s past. Even though he has relatively little screen time, Joe is ever present. This is a credit to Lonergan’s story and to Kyle Chandler. When it comes down to it Joe is the heart of film.

Casey Affleck’s characteristic reserve works beautifully here. He brings a quiet Casey Affleck gives one of his best performances in depth to Lee. He makes no apologies or Kenneth Lonergan’s masterpiece “Manchester By The Sea’ excuses for Lee’s faults or failings. There is heart-wrenching pain in his portrayal suffered incredible tragedy. Interestingly, of Lee, but no self pity. The rest of the Lonergan spends just enough time in cast knocks it out of the park as well, those places to create impact, but he including Michelle Williams as Lee’s exdoes not dwell. The bulk of the story is wife. Also making every frame ring true is told in the mundane bits of everyday life. the cinematography by Jody Lee. I expect I think this may perhaps be what makes we’ll see nominations across the board. the film seem so utterly real and devoid of Manchester is not a film to be satisfied falseness. with a contrived happy ending, but that This is best exemplified in the doesn’t mean we’re left without resolution. conversations between Lee and Patrick, By all descriptions here it sounds like many of which are so awkwardly honest a total downer, but it’s not. Profound it’s as if the scenes were sketched but melancholy is diffused by surprising unscripted, allowing the characters to pops of humor. It’s a deeply affecting work through the process organically. Lee character study made even more poignant loves his nephew, but the thing that has by great empathy and a distinct lack of left him hollow also inhibits their ability self importance. It’s straight forward. It’s to connect. Patrick is a mouthy and brutally honest. Manchester By The Sea is confident teen but it’s clear he wants the one of the must-see movies of 2016. closeness he once shared with his uncle.

As I let this film settle over me for a Rated R for language throughout and some couple of days I also realized the glue sexual content. Review in the whole story is Lee’s dead brother **** 1/2 begin to handle some of the advertising where actual lies are used to taint one candidate and other lies are used for glamorizing chosen politicians.”

And at that point the three of them remembered the wars that were fought during their lifetimes and the wars that were won, and the medical treatments and inventions that were prolonging life, reliable heat in wintertime and

trustworthy cooling during the summer and, frankly, knew not where to turn.

“We will, like American heroes of the past, try to do our best with the present situations, and never forget to vote our consciences.”

And the long day moved on to an even longer night.

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 31

HEALTH

How does oxygen get to all of our cells?

Oxygen is required to carry out life processes in the animal kingdom, humans included.

The Krebs cycle in the cell mitochondria (energy factories) uses oxygen and carbohydrate to generate energy and give off water and carbon dioxide as by-products.

But how does the oxygen get to the cell of the little finger and into its mitochondria? By an amazing process that requires good health in many body systems.

Oxygen is drawn into the lungs by the diaphragm and chest muscles. This requires good functions of the nerves and muscles and normal function of

the brain and nerve centers which regulate this activity (cardiovascular exercise and balanced nutrition).

The oxygen must traverse the large and small tubes (bronchioles) of the lung to arrive at the small air sacs (alveoli) where the oxygen can enter

the blood stream.

This requires maintaining the physical structure and muscular action of the bronchioles and insuring normal function of the hairs and mucus (cilia) lining the bronchioles (no smoking, eight glasses of water).

The oxygen must cross the very thin walls where the air sac touches the capillaries which envelope it to enter the red blood cell and attach to the hemoglobin molecule for transport in the blood. This requires excellent health of the micro-circulation of the lung (avoid congestive heart failure and pneumonia – balanced nutrition,

cardiovascular exercise, ideal weight maintenance, control blood pressure, regular seven-hour sleep, eight glasses of water, vaccination for those at risk).

The attachment of oxygen to the hemoglobin molecule requires the proper function of several chemical reactions. These can be deranged with carbon monoxide, chronic lung disease, or iron deficiency anemia (no smoking and balanced nutrition). The red blood cell with its oxygen load is propelled to the little finger in the blood stream. Strong heart pumping action, adequate blood pressure and sufficient heart rate combine to make this propulsion possible (cardiovascular exercise, seven-hour sleep, ideal weight maintenance, control blood pressure).

The red blood cell must travel through open blood vessels, from the large arteries down to the smallest capillaries (balanced nutrition, regular seven-hour sleep, ideal weight maintenance, eight glasses of water).

Finally, the oxygen crosses the very thin capillary wall and into the cell of the little finger to enter the mitochondria to take part in producing energy. Some diseases of genetic origin of muscles, nerves, heart, lungs, hemoglobin and mitochondria can affect the normal function of this process. But these are rare. Most disease processes that inhibit the natural passage of oxygen are related to life-style choices. Your ability to utilize oxygen rests in your hands.

Make the good choices so you can breathe easier.

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Pamela Winkler’s work at Seven Sisters Gallery

By Staff Reports

Rust and chrome, nuts and bolts, old cars, glass jars.

These are the things that pastel artist Pamela Winkler chooses as her subject matter.

Using intensely bold colors, she zooms in on discarded objects that the rest of the world has forgotten, revealing interesting textures and colors. This month you can see a collection of Pamela Winkler’s work at Seven Sisters Gallery.

Owner, Andrea McNair says, “I “Torn” am so thrilled to get to display Pamela’s artwork here for the next couple of months.

Her work is refreshingly different and exciting. I usually expect pastels to

“Moving On”

MV

be soft and muted, but Pamela’s are incredibly bright and bold!”

Winkler has an undergraduate degree from Miami University Ohio in Art History and a masters in Architecture. She worked as an architect in Cincinnati and also here in NC. When the economy crashed, Winkler started trying out art classes to find something do to until architect jobs came back. She started with ceramics, then stone carving, ‘Winkler’ continued on pg. 34

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WWW.TOWNHARDWARE.COM Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 33

HOLIDAY DVD/BLACK MOUNTAIN CONT. December DVD Pick — ‘Love Actually’ (2003)

By Michelle Keenan

As the song goes, ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year,’ but for

2016 that’s not

exactly setting the

bar very high, except perhaps when it comes to film.

The ‘Best of’ lists will soon be making the rounds and with them lots of recent DVD releases that you won’t want to miss. We’ll get to some of those next month, but for December I’m relegating my pick to holiday fare and recommending one of my perennial favorites, Love Actually.

If the usual array of Christmas specters, wingless angels and holiday miracles rings a little too saccharine, but you’re not quite ready to give up on the season, Love Actually may be just the remedy. It also doesn’t hurt that the film showcases some of Britain’s favorite actors, including a casualty of 2016, the late, great Alan Rickman.

Love Actually offers a pleasant alternative to more traditional holiday movie fare, but without the crudeness of some other contemporary offerings. The film tells the stories of eight loosely related couples in London during the weeks before Christmas. Among them: Liam Neeson is a recent widower and now single father to his young stepson (Thomas Sangster). Emma Thompson is a housewife who suspects her husband (Alan Rickman) is cheating on her with his secretary. Colin Firth is a best-selling author, who retreats to the French countryside to work on his latest novel and nurse a broken heart. Billy Nighy is an aging rock star and former drug addict who’s trying to beat a boy band to make it back to the top of the pop charts with a really bad Christmas

song, and last but not least, Hugh Grant is the newly elected Prime Minister who finds himself more than a little distracted by a member of his household staff.

And that’s just a few of the highlights.

With so many plots and sub plots, there are about 20 characters to follow. It sounds like it should be a train wreck, and in many hands it would be, but with Richard Curtis at the helm it’s sheer perfection, a rare gem for the romcom genre.

Love Actually opens and closes with Hugh Grant’s narrative and a fantastic, ever growing collage of real-life footage of people meeting loved ones at Heathrow International Airport. The bookend narrative and images set the tone for the whole film, affirming a universal appeal.

Every character is in pursuit of love in one form in another. With just the right balance of comedy and heart, a fun soundtrack and a killer cast, the film smartly fires on all cylinders, leaving its audience cheering and utterly satisfied. In addition to the actors mentioned above, the cast also includes Laura Linney, Rowan Atkinson and Billy Bob Thornton as well as several actors who have since become well known to Americans: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Gregor Fisher, Martin Freeman, Keira Knightley, Andrew Lincoln, Kris Marshall, Martine McCutcheon, Lucia Moniz, and Rodrigo Santoro.

Known previously as the writer of Four Weddings and a Funeral and Notting Hill, Love Actually marked an auspicious directorial debut for Richard Curtis.

This movie reminds you that even during divisive times, love actually is really all around us.

Rent it, watch it with someone you love and enjoy a respite from 2016.

“Emily’s Harbor” ‘Winkler’ continued from pg. 33

drawing and then finally pastels. The pastels just clicked! She said goodbye to being an architect and became a full time artist in 2010.

In 2014 she moved to the River Arts District where she currently has a studio in the Warehouse Studios on Lyman Street.

Winkler says, “I am drawn to man-made subject matter, probably from my years as an architect. I enjoy exploring the form and texture of both

shiny new and aging objects, often coming in for a close up view. Dramatic lighting brings depth to the objects and a theatrical sense often at odds with the common nature of the subject.”The exhibit will be on display at Seven Sisters Gallery from now through March 5, 2017.

Seven Sisters is located at 117 Cherry St in Black Mountain. You may also see Pamela’s work at www. pamelawinkler.com.

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RAPID RIVER COMICS

Ratchet and Spin

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By Jess and Russ Woods

Dragin

By Michael Cole

Corgi Tales

By Phil Hawkins

Best in Show

Marketplace December 2016

By Phil Juliano

Vol. 20, No. 4 — RAPID RIVER’S ARTS & CULTURE MAGAZINE — December 2016 35

346 Depot St River Arts District Asheville

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