Crimson Laurel Gallery

About Crimson Laurel Gallery

In business since 2002, Crimson Laurel Gallery has the largest selection of studio ceramics in Western North Carolina, fine jewelry, hand crafted furniture, glass, sculpture, and paintings round out the collection, culminating in an aesthetic unique to Bakersville and beyond.  The gallery also includes a working jewelry studio, exhibition hall, and select antiques.  Special exhibits and lectures are held throughout the year.

Owners John Lara and David Trophia are working artists committed to educating customers about the artists they represent and how the work is made. The artists represented here have been recognized locally and nationally, from Bakersville Creek Walk Best in Show to the Smithsonian Collection.  All are working artists, many of whom teach and have been featured in magazines nationally and abroad.  Their unique vision is evident in the careful design of displays, the preservation of the historic Blevins Building, and welcoming nature of the space.

From it’s origins at the turn of the last century, the Blevins building has served as a  warehouse, silent movie theater,  billiard hall, tobacco shop,  bowling alley, sandwich shop, and general store and particular residents of Mitchell County can even recall two days when it became legal to sell alcohol at the store.

During 15 months of renovations in 2006-07, all efforts were made to retain the historic imperfections of the building.  The original heart pine floors, tongue and groove ceiling, and walls are still in tact and wormy chestnut was salvaged from the building’s exterior for use throughout the renovations. The square front on the face of the building is close to the original design and the original entrance and porch ceiling have been preserved.

Today the Blevins Building serves as the flagship of a revitalized and growing art, craft and antiques community in Bakersville and Mitchell County.  Crimson Laurel Gallery is a place to ask questions, have fun, and be inspired.