Since 1930, the Southern Highland Craft Guild has championed fine craft across the Southern Appalachian region. We’re excited to launch our Emerging Artist Program, a unique opportunity for six promising artists to take the next step in their careers.

This program is designed to help you grow creatively, develop professional skills, and gain hands-on experience in the world of fine craft exhibitions. Selected artists will participate in the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands and receive valuable resources to elevate their business and artistic practice.

Program Benefits

Emerging Artists will receive:

• Participation in the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands | October 16–19, 2025, in downtown Asheville, NC
• 50% Booth Fee Discount | A reduced cost to help make your first fair more accessible
• $150 Booth Grant | Funding support to help you create a professional and eye-catching display
• Free Business Workshops | Skill-building sessions focused on marketing, sales, pricing, and presentation
• Marketing Support | Featured promotion through SHCG’s social media, email campaigns, and advertising channels
• Waived Membership Application Fee | If you apply to become a Guild member within one year of program participation
• Peer Cohort Experience | Connect with fellow emerging artists and build lasting professional relationships

Whether you're fresh out of school or newly navigating the world of professional craft, this program is built to help expand your audience, sharpen your business skills, and grow your creative practice.

Eligibility

To apply, you must:

• Reside in one of the counties within the Southern Highland Craft Guild region
• View eligible counties
• Have completed a formal arts education program or apprenticeship within the last five years
• Not be currently enrolled in a college or university arts program
• Work in a medium represented by the Guild (e.g. fiber, clay, wood, glass, etc.)
• Have completed a formal arts education program or apprenticeship within the last five years; or are self-taught and have not been in business with your craft for more than five years
• Be 18 years or older

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
• Notification of Acceptance: August 29, 2025
• Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands: October 16–19, 2025