The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts
A vibrant center celebrating local visual arts with engaging exhibits, hands-on classes, and a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
The Bascom Center for the Visual Arts
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant center celebrating local visual arts with engaging exhibits, hands-on classes, and a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden.
"A real gem with lots of interesting art by local artists and an outdoor trail with larger installations."
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the nature walk with art installations; it's a peaceful escape.
🛍️ Support Local Artists
Browse the retail store for unique, handcrafted items.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sculpture Garden Trail
Outdoor grounds
Wander a serene path dotted with captivating art installations, leading to a tranquil stream.
Local Artist Galleries
Main building
Admire diverse exhibits showcasing the talent of regional artists, with many pieces available for purchase.
Pottery Studio
Pottery studio building
Experience hands-on art with classes or view unique, locally crafted pottery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors and Art
Discover Local Talent
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the nature walk with art installations; it's a peaceful escape.
🛍️ Support Local Artists
Browse the retail store for unique, handcrafted items.
📅 Check Class Schedules
Sign up for adult or children's classes for an immersive art experience.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking makes arrival easy.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the nature walk with art installations; it's a peaceful escape.
🛍️ Support Local Artists
Browse the retail store for unique, handcrafted items.
📅 Check Class Schedules
Sign up for adult or children's classes for an immersive art experience.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking makes arrival easy.
✨ Free Admission
Enjoy the exhibits and grounds without an entry fee. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Bascom for its beautiful, well-maintained grounds featuring a peaceful nature walk and outdoor art installations. The focus on local artists in its galleries and retail store is highly appreciated, offering unique and quality items. Many find the free admission and friendly staff add to the positive experience.
"Beautiful well maintained space. We had a wonderful visit here. There is a nature walk through the grounds - there are various art sculptures installations along the way and the path leads you to a stream where there is a covered porch area you can sit and listen to the running water. It was so peaceful. They have a retail store that features local artists filled with so many unique items! There are a few galleries/ exhibits and the majority of the pieces were for sale. We enjoyed walking the garden and viewing the three exhibits in the main building. They also offer classes for adults and children. Everyone we met was very friendly and helpful."
Katherine Cain
"Didn't know what to expect but this turned out to be a real gem!
Lots of interesting art by local artists alone with an outdoor trail with larger art installations along it. Pretty good selection of locally made pottery for sale as well. Free admission and plenty of parking. Great place to take kids and afterwards I highly recommend Highlands Smokehouse for lunch which is just up the road."
Greg Hart
"Great place to visit. The day we were there, they had guest speakers in the pottery studio talking about color glazes. The exhibits we neat. The ground were fun with a short hiking trail where we discovered a covered picnic table under the trees with a running brook. Two blocks from downtown Highlands. A must visit@"
gordon pettersen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bascom is conveniently located just off downtown Highlands, NC. It's easily accessible by car with ample parking available. +1
Yes, it's situated right off downtown Highlands. Keep an eye out for signage, and you might even spot a covered bridge nearby.
There is plenty of parking available at The Bascom, making it easy for visitors to access the center.
Yes, The Bascom is just two blocks from downtown Highlands, making it a pleasant walk for those staying in the area.
Many visitors recommend Highlands Smokehouse for lunch, which is just up the road from The Bascom.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the exhibits at The Bascom is generally free, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. +1
While the main exhibition center may be closed on Sundays, the pottery studio is often open. It's best to check their official schedule for specific hours.
As admission is typically free, advance booking for exhibits is usually not required. However, for specific workshops or events, it's advisable to check their website.
The Bascom hosts various events, including exhibitions, festivals, and special talks like 'Raconteur' events featuring artists.
Yes, many of the pieces displayed in the galleries and the retail store are for sale, offering a chance to own work by local artists.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
The Bascom features a diverse range of visual arts, including pottery, photography, sculptures, and mixed media from local and regional artists. +1
Absolutely! The grounds include a beautiful nature walk with outdoor art installations and a peaceful stream area. +1
Yes, The Bascom offers a variety of classes and workshops for both adults and children, covering different art forms like pottery.
The 'pinch pot' technique is a method of creating pottery by shaping clay with your fingers and thumb, often used for vessels. It's a common technique taught at The Bascom.
Past exhibits have included local nature photography, a family of bowl turners, and instruments by Appalachian makers, showcasing diverse artistic expressions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most areas, especially on the grounds. However, always check for specific signage in galleries regarding flash or professional photography.
The outdoor sculpture garden trail offers picturesque scenes with art integrated into nature. The pottery studio and galleries also provide unique visual subjects.
While not explicitly stated, it's good practice to be mindful of other visitors and the art itself. Tagging The Bascom when sharing your photos is always appreciated.
The Bascom has featured impressive exhibits of black and white nature photography from local artists, highlighting the region's beauty.
Commercial photography of the artwork typically requires prior permission from The Bascom. For personal use and social media sharing, it's usually fine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider signing up for one of their children's art classes or workshops, which are designed to be fun and educational. It's a great way for kids to get hands-on experience with different art forms, like pottery, and unleash their creativity. The free admission to exhibits also makes it an affordable outing for the whole family.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Engage with the art on a deeper level by attending artist talks and special events. These sessions offer valuable insights into the creative process, inspirations, and techniques behind the works. The Bascom's commitment to showcasing diverse themes, from nature to social commentary, ensures a thought-provoking visit for any art aficionado.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with a stroll through the sculpture garden and nature trail for a refreshing outdoor experience. Afterwards, consider a meal at a nearby restaurant like Highlands Smokehouse. The opportunity to browse and purchase unique local art also makes it a great place to find a special souvenir.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Local Expression
Beyond the visual displays, The Bascom actively fosters artistic engagement through its classes and workshops. These programs cater to all skill levels, from beginners trying out the 'pinch pot' technique for the first time to more experienced individuals looking to refine their craft. The opportunity to learn directly from artists and engage in hands-on creation adds a significant layer to the visitor experience, making it more than just a gallery visit.
One of the most cherished aspects of The Bascom is its outdoor sculpture garden and nature trail. This beautifully maintained area allows visitors to combine a peaceful walk in nature with an appreciation for art. Large-scale installations are thoughtfully placed along the path, which meanders through the grounds and leads to a serene stream area. It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and offers a refreshing contrast to the indoor gallery spaces.
A Community Hub for Creativity
The center frequently hosts special events and talks, such as 'Raconteur' sessions where artists share their stories and insights behind their work. These events provide deeper context and personal connections to the art on display, enriching the visitor's understanding and appreciation. Exhibits often tackle significant themes, with artists confronting social, political, or ecological challenges through their work, often using a mythic lens to explore solutions.
For those looking to take a piece of local artistry home, the retail store is a treasure trove. Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, the items here are genuinely unique, handcrafted by local artisans. From functional pottery to intricate sculptures, there's a wide range of options for every taste and budget, making it an ideal place to find a meaningful memento of your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit