Arts, Crafts, Antiques and Galleries in the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina

Carmen Haynes/Pine Needles and Things in BrasstownExplore the work of hundreds of artists and craft makers who call the Smoky Mountains home. A long legacy of craft traditions began over 10,000 years ago when the Cherokee tribe crafted tools, clothing, art and more from simple materials like honeysuckle vines, gourds, corn beads, and feathers.

Today, pieces of original Cherokee and pioneer art native to the Smoky Mountains are just one cherished aspect of the Smoky Mountain antiques, arts, and crafts scene. Theatre, musicians, museums, artisans and their galleries all comprise the modern landscape of Smoky Mountain crafts.

Our art and crafts run the gambit of historical preservation of priceless Smoky Mountain antiques to 21st century creations that blend tradition and today. You can even learn how to make your own Smoky Mountain arts and crafts in one of several folk schools in the area. Come explore Smoky Mountain antiques, art, and crafts and see history in the making.

The mountains of North Carolina have always been a source of inspiration for artists of all mediums , styles, and backgrounds. Make creativity the central focus of your next vacation and explore the eclectic mix of Smoky Mountain art galleries located throughout the region. Whether you are searching for glass art, native arts and crafts, watercolors, fine prints, painted landscapes, pencil drawings, or custom designed jewelry made from local gems and minerals Smoky Mountain art galleries will offer something spectacular. Interested in attending an educational program or special exhibit? Many galleries have art events and seminars throughout the year for those who want to make art, not just view it.

Not sure where to start? Follow one of the many itineraries provided by the Blue Ridge Craft Trails and discover numerous craft makers and galleries throughout the mountains.

Native American Craft Shop
Located in Cherokee, North Carolina, the home of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the Gallery sells limited edition giclée prints of the works of internationally known Native American artists and Western artists, as well as beautiful traditional and contemporary baskets, pottery and other works created by Cherokee and other Native American crafters. Custom framing and rustic home furnishings are also available, and so are corporate and residential art collection design services.
1847 Tsali Blvd Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-6790 greatsmokiesart.com Get Directions
Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc.
Located in the majestic mountains of Western North Carolina, Qualla Arts and Crafts is the oldest Native American Cooperative. Founded in 1946, Qualla Arts and Crafts continues to uphold a standard of excellence when it comes to the traditional arts and crafts of the Eastern Cherokee. Showcasing the works of over 250 members, Qualla Arts and Crafts preserves and promotes the traditional arts and crafts of the Eastern Band of Cherokee. While at Qualla visit the Permanent Collections Gallery which boosts some of the best examples of Cherokee Arts and Crafts since the cooperatives creation. Qualla Arts and Crafts, offers a vast selection of baskets, pottery, wood and stone carving, beadwork, and much more. Summer Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Mon - Sat., 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun. Winter Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Mon - Sun., and Jan. - Mar. 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Mon - Sat. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
645 Tsali Blvd. Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-3103 www.quallaartsandcrafts.com Get Directions
Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center
The Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center is a non-profit corporation formed by a group of local citizens after the closing of Stecoah School in 1994. The Center is housed in the restored 1926 Stecoah Schoolhouse. The Center is highly acclaimed for its summer concert and dinner series, An Appalachian Evening, which features mountain roots music in the historic 300-seat air conditioned auditorium. Visitors are amazed to discover prominent and highly regarded musicians playing for small audiences in the quiet valley. The Center also houses a beautiful Artisan’s Gallery stocked with the works of more than 125 local artisans and craftsmen, including artisan foods produced on site in the commercial Stecoah Kitchen from locally grown sources. Other offerings include a Cherokee history display, beautiful grounds and walking trail, culinary workshops, and arts and crafts classes.
121 School House Rd Robbinsville, NC 28771 (828) 479-3364 www.stecoahvalleycenter.com Get Directions