Owning an art gallery and studios was never something that I thought I would be doing, but when the opportunity arose, I was excited to tackle it!

Working as a Realtor, I was initially asked by a friend and client about being a property manager for his building in the  River Arts District, NorthLight Studios. I found I loved being in the building and meeting the artists and engaging with people who toured through the studios. 

NorthLight was owned by Wendy Whitson, a favorite local artist and large force in the River Arts District (RAD), along with her husband John Davis. Wendy sadly passed away six years ago, and John decided to sell the building. Wendy and John were one of the first couples I met when I moved to Asheville 19 years ago. I feel honored and privileged to be the new owner and caretaker of NorthLight.

The building isn't on the historic register but it has so many historical details, from the original tile floors upstairs, to the original tannery art on an inside brick wall.  The main portion of NorthLight wasn't affected by Hurricane Helene, and I didn't have a presence there at that time, so being in the RAD and hearing first-hand, personal accounts of what so many artists went through makes me realize how much they've all accomplished to come back as incredibly as they have.

Becoming a part of the RAD has opened my eyes in a different way to the various people who make Asheville the interesting and vibrant city it is.  Meeting artists and tourists, along with locals from the neighborhood has given me a new perspective. Especially amazing is learning how the artists support each other and how much they've accomplished in rebuilding.  Engaging with tourists from across the country and the world is one of the most entertaining parts of the day. 

Inside NorthLight, the front, downstairs space is currently set up as a gallery and the first art exhibit will be the Wendy Whitson Retrospective, with many of her remaining pieces for sale, including originals and giclees.   

Upstairs currently has two wonderful local artists who have set up their studios. Mel Sozer (www.melsozer.com) is an abstract nature artist, and Cheyenne Trunnell (www.cheyennetrunnell.com) whose paintings are inspired by faith, light, and landscape. Working studio space is still available!

If you've not recently been to the RAD, add a visit to your calendar as so much has been rebuilt, relocated, and renovated, there's a new excitement in the air. Come to the RAD, come to NorthLight!

Joye King Steele

828-808-1381