Murphy – The streets of downtown were busy Friday night, with folks who came out for the first Murphy Art Walk of the season.
Art Walk Director Donna Duval with the Valley River Arts Guild said this month’s promised to be the largest one yet.
“The weather’s beautiful and people have their tents up. It’s a great day for everybody to be here. You’ve got to come out and mingle with your community, meet new folks and have fun,” she said.
Businesses stayed open late, there were food and drinks available, music was heard throughout the streets and there was a five-member drum circle along with face painting, a lemonade stand and more.
The Murphy Art Center held the MAX Art Xplosion reception for those who had their art and photography images put on downtown Murphy, while the Silver Arts show was hosted by the Cherokee County Arts Council at the same time.
Vendor wares on display included painted gourds, handcrafted hats, jewelry, plants, handmade soaps and lotions as well as paintings, photography and more.
Paul Garrett with Ironwood Forge is a Brasstown resident. He was demonstrating blacksmithing and had a small fire going as he made samples of his work. He’s been doing blacksmithing for about 23 years, but it was his first time at the Art Walk.
Appalachian Frameworks and Rambo Electric Bikes in Murphy was at the Art Walk. The veteran-owned company displayed their bicycles with huge tires, and even demonstrated how they work by riding up and down the roadway.
Those wanting plants were not out of luck, as Emily Hays had tomato and pepper plants she grew from seeds for sale. “I love it here,” she said. “I love being able to meet new people and to help others grow their farms.”
Vendor Debbie Sanders of Marble stood at a table selling hand-painted gourds.
“This is fun and people are great,” she said. “I’ve met a lot of interesting folks from around the world.”
Sanders was also selling High Bar Soaps with her friend, Sabrina De-Man, who was also selling handcrafted jewelry.
The Murphy Art Walk happens on the first Friday of each month May through December from 5-8 p.m. For details, call the Valley River Arts Guild at 828-360-3038.