Haywood County Arts Council Opens Applications for 2026–2027 Grassroots Arts Program Grants

 The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) will begin accepting applications for the 2026–2027 Grassroots Arts Program (GAP) Grants on August 3, 2026. Eligible nonprofit organizations in Haywood County that provide arts programming are invited to apply. Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2026. Please note that these grants are available to organizations only and are not open to individual artists. 

Established by the North Carolina Arts Council in 1977, the Grassroots Arts Program provides funding to strengthen local arts efforts and expand access to the arts across the state. In Haywood County, the program is administered by the Haywood County Arts Council through funding from the North Carolina Arts Council. The Grassroots Arts Program helps nonprofit organizations provide meaningful arts experiences that enrich the quality of life in Haywood County. Individual grant awards typically range from $500 to $5,000. 

"The Grassroots Arts Program is one of the most meaningful ways we can invest in the organizations that bring arts experiences to Haywood County," said Tonya Harwood, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council. "These grants help nonprofits offer concerts, performances, exhibitions, classes, and other creative programs that bring our community together, inspire creativity, and make the arts accessible to people of all ages." 

Grant funds may be used to support a variety of arts-related activities and organizational needs. Eligible expenses include artist and performer fees, exhibitions, concerts, marketing and promotional materials, equipment rentals, and other program costs. Funding may also assist with general operating expenses such as rent, utilities, staff salaries, office supplies, insurance, and modest capital improvements. 

In 2025, HCAC awarded $21,645 in Grassroots funding to 10 Haywood County nonprofit organizations providing arts programming throughout the community. 

Grant recipients are required to provide a dollar-for-dollar cash match equal to the amount awarded. Documentation of matching funds must be included in the organization's final grant report. 

Applications will be reviewed by an independent panel based on the following criteria:

● Artistic quality of the proposed project or program 

● Community impact and public benefit 

● Project feasibility 

● Organizational stability and fiscal responsibility 

Applications open August 3 and must be submitted by August 31, 2026. Award notifications will be made in late September, with grant funds distributed in October. Funded activities must be completed by June 30, 2027. 

For application guidelines, eligibility requirements, and the online application, visit: https://haywoodarts.org/grants-funding/

Haywood County Arts Council Presents Threads at Haywood Handmade Gallery

WAYNESVILLE, NC — The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is pleased to present Threads, a new exhibition celebrating the beauty, creativity, and versatility of fiber art at the Haywood Handmade Gallery, located at 86 N. Main Street in downtown Waynesville.

The exhibition will be on display June 3 through August 3, 2026, with an opening reception on Friday, June 5, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. during Waynesville's popular First Friday.

The public is invited to attend the free reception, meet some of the exhibiting artists, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and experience outstanding local artwork in a welcoming gallery setting.

Threads celebrates the many ways artists use fiber, thread, and fabric to create meaningful works of art. From traditional quilting, weaving, and embroidery to contemporary pieces inspired by textiles, the exhibition highlights texture, pattern, craftsmanship, and innovation. Each artwork demonstrates how simple materials can be transformed into compelling artistic expressions.

Featured artist Karen Stockwell will exhibit several quilts, including Nevermore, part of her Raven series. Stockwell explains, "Nevermore is part of my Raven series, where I use fiber and thread to capture the complex, intelligent nature of these birds.*"

She will also display Creative Energy, a work that explores abstract expression through fiber art. According to Stockwell, "Creative Energy illustrates how fiber and thread can be used to capture the essence of a mood, a state of being, or an abstract concept."

Glass artist Lisa Bradley will also be featured in the exhibition. Her piece Spun Weave draws inspiration from the interconnected nature of human experience. Bradley describes the work as, "Spun Weave transforms glass into a woven tapestry of light, reflecting the countless threads of experience and connection that bind us together."

The Haywood County Arts Council looks forward to welcoming the community to celebrate Threads and the artists whose work brings this exhibition to life.

For more information about the exhibition, the Haywood Handmade Gallery, or the Haywood County Arts Council, visit the gallery at 86 N. Main Street in Waynesville or contact HCAC at director@haywoodarts.org.

Chamber Music of the Carolinas Announces 57th Season

Four Weeks of Live Performances Across Greenville, Asheville, and Waynesville

Chamber music is a shared act of listening — musicians and audience gathering in the same room to shape an experience that exists only in that moment.

This summer, J Freivogel and Rachel Freivogel, Artistic Directors of Chamber Music of the Carolinas, will lead an extraordinary roster of festival artists in a dynamic 57th season running July 10 through August 2. Performances will take place across three communities — Greenville, Asheville, and Waynesville — offering audiences a rich and varied musical journey spanning centuries, styles, and traditions.

In Waynesville, concerts will be held at First United Methodist Church on Sundays at 4:00 PM, featuring four thoughtfully curated programs that highlight the breadth and intimacy of chamber music performance.

57th Season Waynesville Programming

Week 1: Ripples — July 12
A program exploring musical resonance, reflection, and connection across time and texture.

Week 2: Parlor to Pub: 18th Century English Music — July 19
A lively journey through historical English repertoire, moving from refined salon settings to spirited public dance traditions.

Week 3: Voices — July 26
A celebration of expressive musical storytelling and the many ways composers give voice to emotion and identity.

Week 4: Clara & Robert: Equality — August 2
A powerful program highlighting the creative dialogue and artistic legacy of Clara and Robert Schumann.

The Haywood County Arts Council is proud to sponsor the Waynesville concert series again this year. The partnership helps bring exceptional live chamber music to the Haywood County community and reflects the Arts Council’s continued commitment to supporting arts access and cultural experiences in the region.

“This is such a wonderful way to bring terrific music to our little community,” said Tonya Harwood, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council. “We are happy to support this series and the incredible artists who make these performances possible.”

This season’s programs move fluidly from the lush textures of a Brahms Sextet to spirited 18th-century English dance music, culminating in performances by the acclaimed Jasper String Quartet exploring compelling works by living composers.

Each concert offers its own distinct experience — intimate, immediate, and impossible to replicate.

“Chamber music invites people into a moment of discovery together,” said the festival’s artistic leadership. “Every performance is shaped by the artists, the audience, and the energy in the room. That’s what makes live music so meaningful.”

Season 57 promises four weeks of remarkable artistry, collaboration, and connection through music.

Tickets are now available.

For schedules, venues, and ticket information, visit Chamber Music of the Carolinas: https://cms-carolinas.org/waynesville

5th Annual Smoky Mountains Bluegrass Festival Announces 2026 Lineup for October 24, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Maggie Valley Fairgrounds

WAYNESVILLE, NC — The Haywood County Arts Council is proud to announce the full artist lineup for the 5th Annual Smoky Mountains Bluegrass Festival, returning to the Maggie Valley Fairgrounds on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Hosted annually by the Haywood County Arts Council, the festival has become a signature regional event and a meaningful way to celebrate the arts with the community while raising critical funds to help sustain HCAC’s gallery operations and year-round programs. Now in its fifth year, the festival continues to grow in popularity, regularly welcoming more than 1,000 guests for a full day of live music, community connection, and Appalachian tradition.

The 2026 lineup showcases an exciting mix of rising stars and award-winning favorites. Opening the day is Virginia-based artist Olivia Jo, whose debut single in 2022 quickly launched her onto national charts including Bluegrass Today, The Roots Music Report, Cashbox, and The Bluegrass Jamboree. Known for her authentic songwriting and fresh energy, Olivia Jo continues to build momentum with original music that resonates with audiences nationwide.

Next to take the stage is Unspoken Tradition, a fast-rising voice in contemporary bluegrass rooted in Western and Central North Carolina. Known for original material that reflects the evolving culture of the region, the band has performed to sold-out crowds at venues like The Station Inn in Nashville and on MerleFest’s Watson Stage. Their releases, including Simple Little Town and Miles Between, have received national airplay and NPR recognition. As band member Ty Gilpin shares, “We’re so excited to return to this festival in the heart of our own western North Carolina home. Maggie Valley has such a rich history of supporting Bluegrass music and the setting of the mountains in the midst of the fall foliage is unbeatable. This is a festival people come from all over the country to attend. We’re so privileged to be a part this year.”

Red Camel Collective brings award-winning talent to the festival stage, featuring Johnathan Dillon, Curt Love, Heather Berry Mabe, and Tony Mabe—four multi-instrumentalists also known for their work with the Junior Sisk Band. Named IBMA’s New Artist of the Year in 2025, with Heather Berry Mabe earning IBMA Momentum Vocalist of the Year in 2024, the group blends seasoned musicianship with a powerful modern bluegrass sensibility.

A festival favorite, Appalachian Road Show returns by popular demand, reimagining traditional Americana and Appalachian music with striking originality. Featuring GRAMMY-nominated banjoist Barry Abernathy, GRAMMY-winning fiddler Jim VanCleve, acclaimed mandolinist Darrell Webb, and guitarist Zeb Snyder, the ensemble is known for dynamic performances and a masterful blend of tradition and innovation.

Closing out the festival is hometown favorite Balsam Range, one of the most decorated bands in bluegrass music today. The group—Buddy Melton, Marc Pruett, Tim Surrett, Caleb Smith, and Alan Bibey—has earned 13 IBMA awards, including Entertainer of the Year, and has topped Billboard bluegrass charts multiple times. Named for the majestic mountains surrounding their Haywood County home, Balsam Range is celebrated for rich harmonies, world-class musicianship, and a deep connection to Appalachian tradition. Band member Tim Surrett reflects, “There isn’t a much prettier place than Maggie Valley in the fall. I think we’ve played just about every one of these, and we don’t take it lightly to be invited back. This arts council is so important, and we love supporting their mission and being part of such an outstanding fundraising event.”

Event Details: Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Maggie Valley Fairgrounds | Presented by the Haywood County Arts Council. Early bird tickets are available now for $55 through August 30, after which tickets will be $65. The Smoky Mountains Bluegrass Festival continues to be a wonderful celebration of Appalachian music and culture, bringing together nationally recognized artists and local audiences in a shared experience of live music and community while supporting the mission of the Haywood County Arts Council through funding its gallery, educational initiatives, and year-round arts programming. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Haywood County Arts Council or contact director@haywoodarts.org. For more information and tickets, visit https://haywoodarts.org/smoky-mountains-bluegrass-festival/

HCAC Presents “Weird & Wacky” — A Celebration of the Delightfully Unexpected

Waynesville, NC – The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is excited to announce the opening of its newest exhibit, “Weird & Wacky,” on Friday, April 17, at the Haywood Handmade Gallery. This imaginative and playful exhibition will be on display April 17 through June 1, inviting visitors to explore art that celebrates the unusual, the quirky, and the wonderfully unexpected.

The Opening Reception will take place Friday, April 17 from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at the gallery, located at 86 N Main Street in Waynesville. This free event offers the public an opportunity to meet participating artists, enjoy light refreshments, and experience the exhibit firsthand. 

“Weird & Wacky” showcases artwork that pushes creative boundaries and embraces eccentricity. From strange characters and fantastical scenes to unexpected materials and playful concepts, the exhibit encourages both artists and viewers to step outside the ordinary. All mediums are represented, unified by a spirit of imagination, curiosity, and bold artistic expression.

One of the exhibiting artists, Juli Hulcy-Kessinger, brings a unique perspective to the show with her whimsical creations:

“A flock of whimsical birds crafted from glass, clay, and found objects. With tiny helmets, wheels, and wind-up keys, they feel part creature, part curious machine—each one delightfully peculiar. Together, they celebrate the beauty of strangeness and the charm of being a little off balance.”

This exhibit continues HCAC’s mission to support artists, foster creativity, and bring engaging, accessible art experiences to the community. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to attend and discover artwork that surprises, delights, and challenges everyday expectations.

For more information about the exhibit or upcoming events, visit www.haywoodarts.org.

Quilt Trails 2026: Bus and Walking Tours Celebrate Local Quilt Blocks

Waynesville, NC — From playful pups to sisterly bonds, the region’s Quilt Blocks tell stories that are as colorful as they are meaningful. The Haywood County Arts Council invites the community to experience these local treasures on Saturday, April 18th during the second annual Quilt Trails Bus Tour and the brand-new Quilt Trails Walking Tour, both part of the Appalachian Heritage Festival.

After selling out last year, the bus tour returns with three time slots: 10 AM, 1 PM, and 4 PM. Tickets are $45 each and include a refreshing Herbal RollUp Bar Mocktail. The tour begins and ends at the Shelton House, home of Haywood County’s first Quilt Block, which will also offer free self-guided tours from 10 AM to 4 PM. Along the 1.5-hour guided tour, narrators will highlight Quilt Blocks like the playful collection at Maple Tree Veterinary Hospital, featuring paw prints, pups at play, and cozy companions that celebrate both pets and community, while sharing the fascinating stories behind each piece.

New this year, the Quilt Trails Walking Tour takes place along Main Street at 10 AM, starting and ending at the Haywood Handmade Gallery at 86 N Main Street. Guests will see blocks like the Sisterly Love Quilt Block on the Affairs of the Heart building, honoring the bond between owner Patricia Miller and her sister, who worked alongside her for many years. This 45-minute walking tour also features public art pieces and stories about the history of some of Waynesville’s buildings. Tickets are $10 each.

“This tour is such a joy because it connects people with the artistry and stories woven into our community,” said Laura Jo Thompson, quilter and narrator for the tour. “Guests will leave not just with a sense of our history, but with an appreciation for the creativity and tradition that these Quilt Blocks represent.”

Both tours offer a unique way to explore local art, culture, and history while supporting the Haywood County Arts Council’s programs and initiatives.

Tickets are available now at haywoodarts.org.

Come see the Quilt Blocks, hear the stories, and celebrate the rich heritage of the region!

Art Off the Wall: A One-of-a-Kind Evening of Art, Music, and Surprise

Waynesville, NC — The Haywood County Arts Council invites the community to experience Art Off the Wall, a unique and intimate fundraising event taking place on Wednesday, April 16th from 6–8 PM at the Haywood Handmade Gallery (86 N Main Street, Waynesville).

With only 30 tickets available, this exclusive evening promises a memorable blend of art, atmosphere, and excitement. Guests will enjoy heavy appetizers, beverages, and live music by Betina Morgan, whose harp performance creates a soothing, dreamlike backdrop for the night.

The highlight of the event is a fun and suspenseful twist: each ticket holder will select a duck from the “pond.” On the bottom of each duck is a number corresponding to a piece of artwork displayed in the gallery. Guests will then take home the piece of art that matches their number—literally taking art off the wall.

“This event is all about joy, creativity, and community,” said Tonya Harwood, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council. “There’s something really exciting about not knowing which piece of art you’ll take home—it makes the experience memorable and meaningful, while directly supporting local artists and programs like our Kids Art Club.”

Tickets are $100 each, and all proceeds support the Haywood County Arts Council’s programming, including initiatives like the Kids Art Club and the continued operation of the Haywood Handmade Gallery on Main Street.

This special event offers a creative way to support local artists and the arts community while enjoying an unforgettable evening in an intimate setting.

Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly. To purchase, visit haywoodarts.org.

Come spend an evening supporting the arts—and leave with a surprise piece to treasure.

Haywood County Arts Council Announces New $1,000 Scholarship for Graduating Seniors Pursuing the Arts

Waynesville, NC — The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is pleased to announce a new $1,000 scholarship opportunity for graduating seniors in Haywood County who plan to pursue higher education in the arts.

In keeping with its mission to support artists, innovation in art, and art education, HCAC will award one $1,000 scholarship to an eligible student who plans to major in an arts-related field. Areas of study may include visual arts, music, dance, theatre, performing arts, or arts education.

The scholarship is open to graduating seniors from Tuscola High School, Pisgah High School, Haywood Early College, Shining Rock Classical Academy, Haywood Christian Academy, Bethel Christian Academy, as well as graduating homeschool students residing in Haywood County.

Applicants must plan to major in an arts-related field and must have been accepted to an accredited college, university, or art school.

“Supporting young artists has always been an important part of our mission,” said Tonya Harwood, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council. “We are so excited to offer this scholarship to a graduating senior who is pursuing their passion for the arts, and we hope this is just the beginning. Our goal is to grow this program and offer even more scholarships to young artists in the future.”

Applications will be reviewed by the HCAC Board of Directors.

Application Deadline: May 31Award Notification: June 15

Interested students can complete the application online at:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc1h6q6EatmvtXm6XwcQlw7vxIuflgtE8bEPvgbPBBlSITb3w/viewform?usp=dialog

Students with questions may contact the Haywood County Arts Council at director@haywoodarts.org.

The Haywood County Arts Council has supported the arts in Haywood County since 1977 through exhibitions, education programs, artist support, and community events that celebrate the region’s vibrant creative community.

Media Contact:Tonya Harwood, Executive DirectorHaywood County Arts Councildirector@haywoodarts.orghaywoodarts.org

Little Hands, Big Imagination Exhibit Celebrates Young Artists Across Haywood County

WAYNESVILLE, NC — The Haywood County Arts Council invites the community to celebrate the creativity of Haywood County’s youngest artists at the opening reception for Little Hands, Big Imagination on Friday, March 6, from 5–8 PM at the Haywood Handmade Gallery at 86 N Main Street in Waynesville.

This special exhibit features collaborative works created by Kindergarten through 5th grade students from Haywood County public, charter, and private schools, as well as one homeschool group. Each participating school received an oversized canvas and invited students to work together to create a single piece of art representing their school community.

The opening reception will include complimentary refreshments and a hands-on map-making activity for artists of all ages led by local map maker Ken Czarnomski.

All artwork in the exhibit will be sold through an online auction, with proceeds directly benefiting the individual schools’ art programs — helping provide supplies, resources, and future creative opportunities for students.

“There is something incredibly special about seeing young students experience the pride of creating art together,” said Tonya Harwood, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council. “This exhibit celebrates imagination, teamwork, and the joy of creativity, while giving our community the opportunity to directly support arts programs that inspire the next generation of artists.”

Riverbend Elementary art teacher Kellye Slate shared, “Our students created a collaborative pointillist painting of our panther mascot, with every class contributing painted dots to form one unified image. The piece reflects curiosity, hope, and the strength of our school community working together.”

Little Hands, Big Imagination will be on display from March 4 through April 13, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the imagination, teamwork, and artistic expression of Haywood County students while supporting arts education throughout the county.

Community members are encouraged to attend the reception, view the artwork, and participate in the online auction to support young artists.

Online auction link: https://givebutter.com/c/BigImagination/auction

Donation link to fund the arts in our schools https://givebutter.com/BigImagination

For more information, please contact:Haywood County Arts Council86 N Main StreetWaynesville, NC 28786director@haywoodarts.orgwww.haywoodarts.org

Haywood County Arts Council Celebrates “Love of Art” This February with Hearts, Cards, and Creative Connections

Waynesville, NC — This February, the Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) invites the community to celebrate love in meaningful and creative ways at the Haywood Handmade Gallery, located at 86 N. Main Street in downtown Waynesville.

From handcrafted art to heartfelt experiences, HCAC is offering several opportunities to “Love Art” while supporting local artists and vital arts programming.

Give a HeART Fundraising Auction

One of the highlights of the month is the Give a HeART fundraising auction. Artist members generously donated their time and talent to create one-of-a-kind, handmade heart artworks, now on display in the gallery window and available for online viewing and bidding.

“These beautiful hearts are so much more than a Valentine’s gift,” said HCAC Executive Director Tonya Harwood. “They represent creativity, generosity, and our community’s love for the arts.”

Bidding is open online at:https://givebutter.com/c/mQuSBv/auction

• Auction Ends: February 12 at 5:00 p.m.

• Bidding: Online only

Proceeds support HCAC programs such as Live Music on Main Street, Kids Art Club, and the continued operation of the Haywood Handmade Gallery.

Handmade Valentine Cards

Another way to share love is through artful giving. The gallery currently features a large selection of handmade Valentine’s cards, created by local artists and available for $5 each.

All proceeds from card sales directly support Haywood County Arts Council programming.

“These cards are small works of art,” Harwood said. “They’re thoughtful, affordable, and help support creativity in our community.”

Collage Your Valentine Creation Class

HCAC is also hosting a special Valentine-themed art class in February:

Collage Your Valentine Creation Class

• Date & Time: Thursday, February 12, 2026, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

• Location: Haywood Handmade Gallery, 86 N. Main Street, Waynesville

• Cost: $20 per person | $35 per pair

• Duration: Two hours

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a creative twist by designing an 8.5 x 11-inch collage portrait using cut paper. Participants will learn how to work in layers, use shapes, and build expressive features—no experience required.

Attendees may bring their Valentine for a memorable date night or come solo with a reference photo to create a heartfelt surprise. All materials are included, and each participant will leave with a one-of-a-kind handmade keepsake.This beginner-friendly class is perfect for couples, friends, and anyone looking to celebrate creatively. For more information or to register visit: https://givebutter.com/Jhf2Jx

A Message from the Executive Director

“Love is at the heart of everything we do,” said Tonya Harwood, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council. “When you support local art, you’re supporting connection, creativity, and community. Whether you’re bidding on a heart, sending a handmade card, or making art with someone you care about, you’re helping keep the arts alive in Haywood County.”

Music Meets Visual Art in New HCAC Exhibit “Inspired by a Song”Opening Friday, January 30 at Haywood Handmade Gallery

Waynesville, NC — The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) invites the public to celebrate the opening of its first exhibit of 2026, Inspired by a Song, on Friday, January 30, from 5:00–8:00 pm during Waynesville’s Ice Block Party. The exhibit will be on view January 30 through March 2 at Haywood Handmade Gallery, 86 N. Main Street, Waynesville.

Inspired by a Song explores the powerful connection between music and visual art. In conjunction with HCAC and HART Theatre’s Cool Jazz concert, artists were invited to create work inspired by a song of their choosing—any genre, any era—that moves or motivates them. The resulting exhibit translates rhythm, lyrics, and sound into compelling visual expression.

“Music has a way of bringing back specific moments—where you were, who you were with, how something made you feel,” said glass artist Dori Settles. “These shoes are my attempt to give shape to those memories, each pair echoing a song that’s been part of my life’s soundtrack. They’re familiar objects, but remade through the lens of rhythm, emotion, and remembering.”

“We’re happy to reopen the gallery and welcome visitors back after taking time to refresh the space,” said Lauren Medford, Gallery Manager for the Haywood County Arts Council. “This exhibit felt like a perfect way to do that—bringing together visual art and music while also introducing some new retail artists. Opening during Ice Fest makes it a wonderful moment to reconnect with the community.”

The opening reception will feature complimentary snacks and refreshments, opportunities to meet the artists, and a live demonstration by knifemaker Ken Hall, who will share insights into his craft and display works at various stages of completion.

The exhibit is made possible in part through artist sponsorships. Carol Anderson is recognized as the Spotlight Artist Sponsor, with Featured Artist Sponsors including Maria Davis, Sheri Friedman, Christine Gibson, Jan Kolenda, Jennifer Sharkey, Laura Jo Thompson, and Lisa Bradley.

The exhibit and opening reception are free and open to the public.

For more information, visit haywoodarts.org or stop by Haywood Handmade Gallery during regular business hours.

2025 Grassroots Arts Program Subgrants

Waynesville, NC — The Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Grassroots Arts Program Subgrants, awarding over $21,000 to support arts programming and general operations throughout Haywood County.

The Grassroots Arts Program, established in 1977 by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, provides critical funding to strengthen the arts statewide. In Haywood County, these funds are distributed through a long-standing partnership between the North Carolina Arts Council and the Haywood County Arts Council.

“These grants play a vital role in strengthening and expanding the arts in our region,” said Tonya Harwood, Executive Director of the Haywood County Arts Council. “They help make the arts more accessible and ensure our diverse community has opportunities to experience, create, and connect through the arts. We are deeply grateful to our legislators and the NC Arts Council for their continued support in bringing these funds to our community.”

The 2025 Grassroots Grant Recipients are:

● Haywood Community College Foundation – Funding will support the addition of a metalwork sculpture to the college’s art walk in celebration of HCC’s 60th anniversary.
● HART Theatre – Awarded funds to help keep tuition affordable for Academy at HART programming, including theater, dance, and music classes.
● Haywood Vocational Opportunities – Grant supports the HVO Drama Club’s December play, providing drama opportunities for adults with disabilities.
● First United Methodist Church – Funding supports their Arts in Afterschool program, enriching youth education through the arts.
● Haywood Community Band – Received funds for operational support, including marketing, music purchases, and rehearsal space rental.
● Downtown Waynesville Commission – Awarded a grant to help purchase a portable stage for live music and dance events downtown.
● Waynesville Public Housing Authority – Funding provides tenant-led art classes for low-income and disabled senior residents of the Towers.
● Haywood Choral Society – Grant will help cover costs for professional musicians to accompany the group during public performances.
● Voices in the Laurel – Funding supports a special anniversary concert, Coming Home, reuniting alumni and current singers in celebration of the group’s 30th anniversary.
● DayDreamz Project – Awarded funds for their Creative Express Workshops, which provide free arts programming, exhibits, and events for all—especially underserved and disadvantaged groups.

These organizations represent a broad range of artistic disciplines and community engagement efforts—from youth and senior programming to public art and live performance. Together, they make Haywood County a vibrant place to live, work, and create.

Haywood Community College Foundation, one of this year’s recipients, will use its grant to add a new metalwork sculpture to the college’s art walk in celebration of its 60th anniversary.“Having art on campus brings our community together in such a meaningful way,” said Hylah Birenbaum, Executive Director of the HCC Foundation. “It celebrates creativity, connection, and the talented artists who call this region home, while also highlighting the professional crafts programs we’re proud to teach here at the college.”

For more information about the Grassroots Arts Program or the Haywood County Arts Council, visit www.haywoodarts.org