Saturday, October 29, 2011

My Visit To John C. Campbell Folk School (JCC)

I recently spent one week in October at the JCC taking a class in tatting (lace making).  When I arrived at the school, which is on 400 acres, I was thrilled with the old buildings they had saved and the beautiful, natural surroundings.

Cafeteria
Upon checking in I was given a map to my room, which was located at the end of a long gravel driveway in a historic mill.  I shared the room with another lady, Ann, who ended up being the perfect roommate.  The room was simple, but very comfortable.

The Mill Had Four Rooms

My classes were taught by a lovely lady, Marie Roth, that had been coming to JCC for forty years, first as a student, then as a teacher.  She displayed great patience and was a good teacher.  My class of eight had learned the basics of tatting, reading and understanding patterns and how to develop our own projects by the end of the week.

Fiber Arts Building

Each morning started with an optional walk, then morning song.  Imagine starting each day with a half hour concert by excellent bluegrass musicians and singers.  The food at the cafeteria was country cooking and served family style.

Another Classroom and Housing Building

It was a thrill for this Floridian to get to experience Fall.  The air was crisp and the leaves were changing.  I enjoyed walking on the many paths and trails that go throughout the school grounds.

View From One Of The Paths

Since I love American folk art I was excited to discover Mouse Town.  It is located on the side of the wood drying barn.  Apparently, the abundance of field mice inspired the artists at JCC to build a small town for them.  It has now become a custom for each class to add a piece of art to the town.

A Small Section Of The Town With The Mayor On The Bottom Left

Small Items Left For The Mice To Enjoy

I have every intention of attending other classes at JCC.  It is a vacation to refuel the body and feed the soul.  You can order a catalog from their website.

God Bless,
Pam

1 comment:

  1. My husband will be teaching basketry there in two weeks. I have never been to John C. Campbell Folk School and am so looking forward to it! I enjoyed looking at your pics and reading your experience in Brasstown!

    Lynne www.thebasketmakerswife.com

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