This November, Hickory Furniture Mart is honored to welcome a special showcase of artistry, family traditions, and cultural heritage in partnership with the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA). During the first two days of our annual Fall After Market Sale (Friday, November 7, and Saturday, November 8) visitors will have the opportunity to meet and support an extraordinary group of Western North Carolina artisans and furniture makers whose works tell a story of both tradition and resilience.
About BRNHA: Preserving the Past, Supporting the Future
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique cultural and natural heritage of 25 counties across Western North Carolina and the Qualla Boundary. Recognized by Congress in 2003, BRNHA supports initiatives like the Blue Ridge Craft Trails (BRCT), which connect visitors with the region’s rich legacy of handcrafted arts in a diverse variety of mediums.
These trails are home to over 4,000 working craftspeople, many of whom carry on generations-old traditions in wood, clay, fiber, glass, and metal. Through education, advocacy, and connection, BRNHA ensures that these cultural traditions continue to thrive. We are proud to collaborate with them in bringing a selection of these skilled artisans and furniture makers to Hickory for this joint support effort celebrating over a year of strength and rebuilding, following one of WNC’s most devastating natural disasters.
Meet the Makers
Over the course of two days, guests will have the chance to meet eleven featured artisans and furniture makers from the Blue Ridge Craft Trails, each bringing their own distinctive style and medium. From handwoven textiles to heirloom-quality furniture, these pieces are deeply personal expressions of the maker’s cultures and traditions. WNC artisans and furniture makers featured during this event include:
Carolina Farm Table | Devin Ulery, Sparta, NC
Carolina Farm Table creates custom dining tables that serve as the centerpiece of family gatherings. Each piece is handcrafted from locally sourced and reclaimed wood, designed to anchor moments that matter.
Catawba Artisan | Eric Landrum, Lenoir, NC
Blending tradition with innovation, Eric Landrum’s creations span furniture design, epoxy artistry, and three-dimensional printed details. His work reflects a masterful approach to mixed media, crafting one-of-a-kind statement pieces with personal stories that feel both modern and rooted in heritage.
Crafted Glory | Kwadwo Som-Pimpong, Clyde, NC
Melding his Ghanaian heritage with the clean lines of Scandinavian design, Kwadwo Som-Pimpong handcrafts refined, sculptural furniture that resonates with structure and soul. Each piece is conceived as a future heirloom, refined with quiet elegance and thoughtful craftsmanship.
Crossnore Weavers | Caroline Hatchell, Crossnore, NC
Since 1920, Crossnore Weavers has preserved the Appalachian art of handweaving while supporting the mission of Crossnore Communities for Children. Their beautiful textiles are as meaningful as they are masterful, each woven with purpose, care, and love.
Dacey Porcelains | Doug Dacey, Columbus, NC
Doug Dacey’s porcelain vessels are sculptural tributes to the natural world. Inspired by the movement of clouds, the curve of petals, and the elegance of organic form, each piece he creates carries a sense of timeless refinement.
Kelsey Schissel Ceramics & Jewelry | Kelsey Schissel & Dan Canivet, Asheville, NC
Intricately detailed and richly layered, Kelsey Schissel’s ceramic vessels bring the ephemeral beauty of wild landscapes indoors. Incorporating delicate silk-screened motifs and luminous glazes, her work is both poetic and enduring. A flawless selection of native gemstones by Dan Canivet creates interesting and sinuous jewelry designs that carry personal stories of their own.
Markey & Son Woodcraft and Carving | Christopher Markey, Jr., Morganton, NC
Through bold chainsaw carvings and detailed relief work, Christopher Markey transforms reclaimed wood into expressive, statement-making art. His practice reflects a deep respect for natural materials, the outdoors, and a legacy of Appalachian storytelling.
Mike McKinney Woodturning | Mike McKinney, Maggie Valley, NC
With a lineage in woodworking, Mike McKinney turns reclaimed wood into elegant, functional art. Each bowl, urn, or ornament is thoughtfully made and meticulously recorded – a lasting memento infused with personal significance and a gracious nod to our Appalachian forestry.
Nathan and Mariella Favors Woodturning | Nathan and Mariella Favors, Bakersville, NC
This husband-and-wife duo blend woodturning and textile artistry into expressive, multidimensional works. Nathan’s organic forms meet Mariella’s vibrant patterns in pieces that are both imaginative and tactile.
Pure Ritual | Nina Kawar, Asheville, NC
Both sculptural and spiritual, Nina Kawar’s porcelain and copper works explore the themes of healing, transformation, and renewal. Her pieces are contemplative objects and infused designs, imbued with a sense of ritual and resilience.
Susan Roath Stained Glass | Susan Roath, Millers Creek, NC
Drawing from the textures and hues of the natural world, Susan Roath creates radiant stained glass compositions. Her thoughtful arrangements of color and light invite quiet reflection and invoke peaceful environments. (Due to a schedule conflict, Susan will only be available on Friday.)
Select artisans will also be offering live demonstrations:
- Crossnore Weavers: 11:00 AM, Friday & Saturday
- Markey & Son Woodcraft and Carving: 2:00 PM, Friday & Saturday
Stories of Strength
The artists featured in this showcase were directly affected by Hurricane Helene. From damaged studios and lost inventory to disrupted business operations, the storm brought significant challenges. Despite these hardships, each craftsman has continued to create, adapt, and inspire – offering a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity within the Western North Carolina artisan community.
Visitors will be able to read personal reflections from the artisans about their experiences with the hurricane at their individual booth spaces.
A Gift That Gives Back
To further support this incredible group, Hickory Furniture Mart is sponsoring a $1,500 giveaway during the Fall After Market Sale. One lucky sale attendee will win a gift certificate to be used toward a custom piece from a participating artisan of their choice. A list of artisans and a link to their works will be provided to the winner. The winner will be drawn and contacted after the sale on Tuesday, November 11. Sale attendees may register with a guest services representative at any of our main entrance desks. One entry per person and must be over 18 years old.
Visitors are also able to provide their support to the artisan and furniture maker communities of Western North Carolina by purchasing any of their works of art on display or by ordering a custom piece that is uniquely handcrafted and designed just for you. Representatives of Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA) will also be on hand to process and accept personal donations made that will be used to further rebuilding efforts for the artisan and furniture maker communities within Western North Carolina.
Fall After Market Sale Hours
- Friday, November 7 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday, November 8 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday, November 9 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Monday, November 10 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Join us for a meaningful weekend of craftsmanship, connection, and community. We look forward to celebrating the spirit of Western North Carolina together.
For any additional questions regarding this event, please reach out directly to Tracey Trimble at [email protected].