Our story

With its perfect combination of stunning vistas and biodiversity, the Highlands-Cashiers plateau of Western North Carolina has always attracted artists from many areas of the country.  A group of artists and art enthusiasts gathered in a barn on Webbmont in Highlands on July 24, 1980 to organize.  Officers were elected, the artists made plans to paint together, have monthly membership meetings throughout the year and have several shows a year.  The Art League of Highlands was born.   Meeting in homes and studios for some time, the group found its first permanent home for meetings and exhibitions in the Bascom Louise Gallery of The Hudson Library.  For more than a half century, the Art League has continued to thrive.  To be sure, there has been evolution. 

Shortly after the opening of The Bascom: A center for the Visual Arts in May 2009, the Bascom graciously agreed to host the Art League's monthly meetings in its world-class facilities.  We thank them for all they do for us and for putting Highlands on the map as a regional Art Center.