There’s something about the mountain air. A feeling of inspiration—for whatever it is that moves you. That’s what people notice about coming to Highlands. Very shortly after arriving, you can’t miss that freeing sensation of having your mind gently opened; some even say your soul.

It’s a safe bet that the same feeling that we laypeople feel upon arrival is the stimulus for the imaginations of the prolific artists who make their homes here for part or all of the year. Artists of every type live in the homes nestled in these hills – award-winning chefs, famous authors, thespians and talented professionals in the visual arts. And it’s that talent pool of inspired souls that has helped craft the unique culture of the Highlands-Cashiers plateau.

In our upcoming series, “Adventures in Art Weekends,” Old Edwards will tap the minds of these artists to help bring the art world alive for our guests. The first weekend, aptly called “Art Start” will help you discover the artist in you—and we’re betting there is one. You’ll come away with your hand-crafted art journal and all the inspiration you need to express yourself through art.

Talented renowned impressionist Jane Smithers favors oils as her chosen medium. After a wealth of art instruction and experimentation, her hand finally landed on the instrument that sent her soul vibrating at a higher level—the pallet knife. She now travels abroad—when she’s not teaching from her studio in Cashiers, NC—expressing her view of the world through her works. But, for her, it all starts with a sketch or a watercolor on a page in her art journal before bringing it to life on canvas. And that’s what she will be bringing to Art Start—all of the inspiration and imagination you need to start on your path of expression through art. Lunch with Jane at Summit One Gallery followed by an afternoon of hands-on instruction will give you and fellow Art Adventurers lots to talk about at Saturday night’s reception at The Hummingbird Lounge at Old Edwards Inn.

Photographer Greg Newington is known not only for his internationally acclaimed photography, but for his ability to captivate an audience with his magnetic personality and ebullient interest in life itself. Guests of Art Start will be treated to an evening with Greg and his photography during the opening reception at The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts. Guests who find themselves captivated with Greg—and with photography—can return to Highlands during Winter Fest February 26th through March 7th when he offers an extensive photography workshop. And lovers of the performing arts can get a taste of Highlands talented thespians as the Highlands-Cashiers present The Dixie Swim Club at The Highlands Performing Arts Center. For more information on Winter Fest events, you can contact the Highlands Visitors’ Center at 866-526-5841.

See the full Art Start Itinerary
View the Old Edwards Art Start Package