Library to host presentation, program of life and work of late local artist

On Saturday, June 11, at 3 p.m., the Macon County Public Library will host an exhibit and reception honoring the work of Franklin artist, the late Jim McRae.

The family of Jim McRae (1924-2010), an Atlanta artist who moved to Franklin in 1973, will present a painting, “Woman Reading,” to the Macon County Public Library at 3 p.m., Saturday, June 11, together with an exhibit and slide presentation on his life and work. The exhibit, with sample works produced during McRae’s long artistic career, will hang in the meeting room through June. Friends of the Macon County Public Library will help sponsor this event.

Artisans fill the streets while music fills the air during the 27th annual Dillsboro Arts & Music Festival on Saturday, June 11.

The free festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the historic walkabout village of Dillsboro.

Featured will be two dozen juried artisans from the Blue Ridge Mountains. Attendees can browse and purchase a variety of crafts, including: pottery, paintings, metal works, gourd art, hand-made jewelry, wood carvings, basket weaving, quilts and homemade soaps. There will also be Raku and Horse-Hair Pottery demonstrations all day beside Tree House Pottery.

A drumming circle for all ages will be held Sunday, June 12, 4:00 till 5:30 p.m., on the Courthouse Plaza, Main Street in downtown Franklin.

Mary Eileen Ferrick is the circle leader.

People may bring their own drums and rhythm instruments, or choose from the wide assortment provided, including African djembes, guiros, shakers, and buffalo drums.

The Greater Cashiers Area Merchants Association’s popular concert series, now in its third year, opens Friday, June 10, and will continue on selected Friday evenings into October. There is really nothing more enjoyable than a cool and starry mountain summer evening in Cashiers listening to bands, vocalists and entertainers from blue grass to blues, rock and even Cajun.

The 2011 concert season promises to be the best ever according to Groovin’ on the Green Chair Pat Grady owner of Midnight Farms in Cashiers. Moonshine Babies return for opening night June 10. Moonshine Babies is a popular group with concert goers.