Travel to the “Heart” of Virginia

Fans of Virginia crafts, art, music and good cookin’ can rejoice. Heartwood Arts Center, located just off Interstate 81 in Abingdon Virginia, has recently opened and will showcase the creative work that flows from fortunate folks. Todd Christensen, executive director of the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation, uses the words “authentic, distinctive, alive” to describe the Arts Center. He wants Heartwood to become the gateway to the arts community in Virginia and be “the place where one can discover and explore the culture, the assets and the artisan craft in the entire region.”

The 30,000-square-foot grand “barn” officially opened on June 15, 2011 with four artisan galleries, a performance space in the middle, gift shop, wine bar and restaurant making Heartwood a one stop shopping spot and gathering place where visitors can experience up close and personal the very best of Virginia’s thriving music and arts scene.

Artisans who sell their work at Heartwood are members of ‘Round the Mountain, Southwest Virginia’s artisan network. Artists apply for the chance to display and sell their handmade fine arts and crafts — from glasswork, fiber and jewelry to metal work, woodworking and sculpture — at a wide range of price levels. A few of the successful artists on display at the Center this year include Susan Blansett, (Creatively Wired Sisters), Katie Lamb (Me and Little Tree Studios), and Silvie Granatelli (Granatelli Pottery). For a full list of participating artists and information about their craft, visit www.heartwoodvirginia.org/Artisans

Heartwood is also the place to check out the best of Virginia’s local food and wine offerings. You can find yummy jams and jellies and condiments crafted in small batches from ingredients grown nearby or sample wines from regional wineries, many of them award winning vintages and varietals.

Both the ‘Round the Mountain Network, and Virginia’s famous Crooked Road Music Trail make their homes in Heartwood. The center appeals to serious art lovers, curious shoppers, and music fans alike. So stop in for a look see, check out the musicians jamming in the Crooked Road gallery, pick up some awesome gifts, do some wine tasting and best of all, experience Virginia in Heartwood!

Just the facts:

Hours:

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 am – 7:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Saturday: 8:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Where: Next to Virginia Highlands Community College just off I-81, Exit 14, Abingdon

Information: 276-492-2095; heartwoodvirginia.org