A look at Blue Spiral 1’s winter programming
For Waynesville painter Luke Allsbrook, inspiration begins by looking. His landscapes often emerge from repeated visits to the same place — hours, months, even years spent studying how light alters a familiar view. “As a human, it’s my sad tendency to think that the world is about ‘me,’” Allsbrook shares in his artist’s statement. “But occasionally, I have had the experience … when a special person or an extraordinary event breaks into the narrow enclosure of the self, and life flows in. I believe this is what happens when a beautiful picture is created.” That act of self-forgetfulness — of seeing beyond ego — infuses Allsbrook’s work with both humility and wonder. His paintings anchor Field of Vision, now on view in the Lower Level Gallery at Blue Spiral 1. The show is one of several exhibitions closing out the year. The gallery’s multi-show abundance continues into 2026 with a full slate of programming, including a display of pottery by North Carolina maker Bill Jones. “The pots are articulated by the flowing lines, jagged marks, and gentle indentations left by my hands,” Jones shares on the gallery’s website. “All work is shown, and no blemish is hidden.”
Spectrum, Heidi Tarver: The Story So Far, Chris Liberti and Will Dickert, and the Field of Vision: Through December 24
George Peterson, Bill Jones, and Mark Making: January 2-February 25, 2026; Opening Reception: Friday, Jan. 2, 5-7pm
Jon Sours and Kensuke Yamada, Kreh Mellick, and Sports: March 6-April 22, 2026; Opening Reception: Friday, March 6, 5-7pm
Blue Spiral 1 Fine Art + Craft / 38 Biltmore Ave., Asheville / bluespiral1.com