ColorFest Showcases Fall Colors and Flavors on Oct. 6 in DILLSBORO, N.C.

DILLSBORO, N.C. - Autumn's colors and flavors take center stage Saturday, Oct. 6, during the fourth annual "ColorFest, Art & Taste of Appalachia" festival.

This arts and food event will fill the sidewalks of Dillsboro with a variety of mountain artisans demonstrating their skills, plus food vendors serving up a taste of North Carolina.

Visitors to this free festival are encouraged to stroll amongst painters as they capture the hues of autumn in the mountains, while interacting with crafters, authors, growers, wine makers, chefs and musicians.

"This year ColorFest showcases artists who have, heretofore, hidden themselves away from the spotlight, preferring to create within the silence of their own environment," said festival organizer Doreyl Ammons Cain.

Among the featured artists are: Luzell Bennett of Whittier, who creates wonderful paintings on preserved leaves from Appalachian forests; and Diane Halasz of Murphy, who uses her paint brush to transform rocks into small, whimsical houses. Watercolorists Sheryl Bessette of Murphy and Pamela Haddock of Sylva will also be at work at their easels.

"In the backdrop of these beautiful mountains I find myself at peace with my paint brush, my paper and Mother Nature," Bessette said.

Joining the painters in this colorful endeavor will be many other artists showcasing their talents in: glass, clay, sculpture, fiber art, caning, wood carving, ceramics 
and fine furniture.

Local musicians and street entertainers add music to festivities, while restaurants and shops are open to serve the crowds throughout the day.

"ColorFest, Art & Taste of Appalachia" is produced by the non-profit Catch the Spirit of Appalachia, in partnership with the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and the 
Jackson County Visual Artists Association.

Funding for the program is supported by the North Carolina Arts Council and the Jackson County Arts Council.

Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For festival info or lodging, call (800) 962-1911 or go to: www.MountainLovers.com.
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