Have A Jones House Holiday
Watauga Arts Council Plans Multiple Events For The Winter

Story by Jeff Eason

Jones House during the holidays. Photo by Jeff Eason

When the two giant maple trees on the Jones House lawn have dropped their last orange leaves, don’t be fooled into thinking that the house has gone into hibernation. On the contrary, there is more going on inside the Jones House Community and Cultural Center during the winter than ever before!

On the first Friday of every month, the Watauga Arts Council hosts a public reception honoring the new art exhibits in the Mazie Jones Gallery (downstairs) and the Open Door Gallery (upstairs). The gallery receptions are held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and are free and open to the public. They are a fantastic way to meet the artists behind the exciting monthly exhibits.

New exhibits this December include the work of local artist Noyes Capehart Long in the Mazie Jones Gallery and the work of Eric Reichard’s pottery students in the Open Door Gallery.

In January the Mazie Jones Gallery welcomes the work of Watauga County Public School Art Teachers.

Old-Time Jams

Local acoustic musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments to the Jones House on Thursday evenings from 7:30 to 11 p.m. for the WAC’s Community Jam Sessions. Some of the best acoustic players on hand each week to share their knowledge of classic old Appalachian tunes to newcomers. Even if you don’t play, you’re invited to come and sing, listen or tap your feet!

Jones House Holidays

The Jones House will be decorated for the holidays from the Friday after Thanksgiving (November 23rd) until closing on Friday, December 21st. The Watauga Arts Council invites visitors to come and tour the historic Boone home, view the galleries and enjoy a cup of hot cider and holiday cookies. This is a perfect photo opportunity for that one-of-a-kind holiday card as the house is beautifully lit both indoors and out!

The Jones House is also available for rental year-round for public meetings, private parties and other events.

Don’t forget: In January the Watauga Arts Council hosts its annual Artful Palette fundraiser featuring great food and live entertainment. The event is tentatively scheduled for mid-January. Check www.watauga-arts.org for the exact date and ticket information.

The galleries of the Jones House Cultural and Community Center are open Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. For more information on Watauga Arts Council activities for the winter, call (828) 264-1789 or visit www.watauga-arts.org.