Dylan Helman

Meet Dylan Helman, a Morganton, NC-based artist passionate about keeping things light and enjoying the creative ride. For now, he's perfectly content with his straightforward and honest Instagram bio, which says: "I draw stuff." 

Dylan began drawing as a child and has primarily transitioned to the digital realm, exploring many styles as diverse as his sources of inspiration. His creative fuel comes from fellow artists in the community, music, TV shows, games, beer, the beauty of nature, and, of course, the silly thoughts that dance around in his head.

"If I can make someone chuckle by looking at my work, or at least get them to think, 'that looks pretty cool', then I feel like I've accomplished something worthwhile."

Whether a meticulously detailed masterpiece or a whimsical doodle, Dylan's art is about having fun and sharing that joy with others. 

Visit Dylan at a special “Meet the Artist” event Friday September 29 at 7pm at Fonta Flora Brewery located in downtown Morgantown, where his work is on display throughout September. 

Keep up with Dylan on Instagram:

@dylan.s.helman

Justin Clark

Asheville based photographer, Justin Clark discovered his passion for making photos at an early age. “I picked up my first film camera as a teenager. I was always the kid in my group of friends with the camera, and that hasn’t changed,” says Justin.  

His work ranges from professional portraits to weddings and engagements to picturesque landscapes. Justin takes pride in making photos that allow his clients to look back on special moments in their lives, while cherishing the memories forever.

“There is nothing like a picture that has the ability to bring a smile, or tear of joy”, he says.

Keep up with Justin on Instagram:

@justin_clark_photography

@justintclark

Kyndra Sweep

Alaskan-raised, Asheville-based illustrator Kyndra Sweep uses color and texture to carve silly little monsters from multiple mediums. She finds inspiration from folk tales, fantasy, therapy, and two wonderful dogs, Auggie and Ghost. Whether Kyndra’s creatures convey relatable mental health thoughts or the happy ignorance of real life, her work always represents a sense of whimsy we might have once forgotten.

When not in her studio, you’ll often find Kyndra playing a board game, jumping in a lake, trying new food with her husband Russell, or painting a mural around town.

You can find Kyndra’s work in Horse + Hero, Downtown Books And News, Regeneration Station, HollerHouse, Pollen and Art Garden

Keep up with Kyndra in Instagram: @flywithsparrowsart

Spencer Beals

“I'm currently working on a wordless picture book exploring natural pathways and non-verbal communication”, Spencer Beals, AFAP client, shares what he’s up to.

Meet the Artist

Spencer Beals

Artwork by Spencer Beals

Asheville based artist and van dweller, Spencer Beals, loves creating worlds. His work is imaginative, colorful, and often intricate, evoking a sense of wonder and play, while simultanously inviting inner exploration.

Inspired by nature, Spencer enjoys conceptualizing works that show the interconnectedness of life, each piece telling its own story.

Spencer’s Studio is located in the River Arts District at Foundation Studios, where he also hosts Sketch Book Club, a creative gathering for the community held twice a month to share inspiration. There is a meeting TONIGHT (April 3)! More details in the flyer below.

Amar Stewart

Photo of Amar Stewart with Painting.

Meet the Artist

Amar Stewart

Painting by Amar Stewart.

Asheville based artist Amar Stewart is opening his new studio in the South Slope. The new space is a multi use unit where Amar will create his works, showcase them in a gallery setting and also sell limited prints, homewares and merch. Amar’s work celebrates Hip-Hop culture and other genres of music that inspire him.

“I am curating this space where like minded people can come through, kick it and look at some art that isn’t usually found in this neighborhood. I’ll be creating new works every month in time for First Fridays.”

Amar’s studio is located at The Refinery which is in the heart of the Brewery district in The South Slope. The Refinery is a building filled with painters, sculptors, photographers, jewelry designers and other creatives spaces.

First Fridays starts 3/3 from 4:30-8pm

The Refinery

207 Coxe Ave

Asheville, NC 28801