In a series of articles, I will delve into the must-visit places that Winston-Salem has to offer. This city and the surrounding areas accommodates to the wants and needs of every type of person - the art enthusiasts, the food lovers, the adventurers, and the sightseers; it has what you crave, whether that be art, culture, food, parks or scenery.
Winston-Salem, which used to be associated with textile, furniture, and tobacco companies, is now known for its dedication to fine arts. With a continuously growing art district, Winston has a wide variety of stores, galleries and museums to choose from. If you enjoy art, love exploring unique communities, or simply appreciate learning something new, then make sure you seek out these eight amazing places.
1. Red Dog Gallery
Located in Winston-Salem's art district, Red Dog Gallery showcases a wide variety of art from local artists, photographers and craftsmen who are members of the non-profit organization Art's for Art's Sake (AFAS). Its mission is to not only educate the community, but to also build and celebrate community through art.
2. The Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA)
SECCA, a non-profit organization and multimedia art gallery, exhibits the work of contemporary artists with regional, national and international recognition. With extensive space, three exhibition rooms and a 300-seat auditorium make up the campus, along with the Hanes house and grounds that features a garden, lake and expansive lawn.
3. Reynolda House Museum of American Art
Built in 1917 by Katherine Smith Reynolds and her husband, R.J. Reynolds, who is the founder of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art displays a premiere collection of American art that ranges from the colonial period to the present. The museum houses a permanent collection of art, as well as a gallery space for traveling exhibitions.
4. Piedmont Craftsmen Gallery
Through promoting the value of fine crafts, Piedmont Craftsmen, which is located in the heart of Winston-Salem's art district, creates a connection between artists, collectors, and the community; it represents over 400 talented artisans from all across the United States, consisting of handmade garments, jewelry and decorative objects.
5. Charlotte and Philip Hanes Art Gallery
Located in Scales Fine Arts Center on Wake Forest University's campus, the Hanes Art Gallery presents challenging and engaging pieces of artwork, mostly contemporary, but sometimes featuring historical and student exhibitions as well.
6. Diggs Gallery
Identified as one of the nation's top ten African-American galleries, Diggs Gallery, located on Winston-Salem State University's campus, offers one of the largest exhibition spaces located in North Carolina dedicated to the arts of Africa and Africa Diaspora.
7. Design Archives Emporium
Hosting over 150 different vendors and artists, Design Archives Emporium sells products that are unique, vintage or homemade. From clothing and jewelry to furniture, this store has something to love for everybody.
8. The Olio
A nonprofit organization located just outside of Winston-Salem's West End District, The Olio is an educational glassblowing facility focused on community, arts, entrepreneurship, and sustainability by melting waste glass and saving space in landfills. This facility also offers field trips, starter classes, workshops, private parties, apprenticeships and a retail gallery,
