Asheville, North Carolina: City Unveils Plans for Enchanted Forest Sculpture Park

Asheville Unveils Plans for Enchanting Forest Sculpture ParkAsheville Unveils Plans for Enchanting Forest Sculpture Park Asheville, North Carolina, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene, has unveiled ambitious plans for an Enchanted Forest Sculpture Park. This captivating new attraction, set amidst the lush Blue Ridge Mountains, will transform a former city landfill into a whimsical and thought-provoking outdoor space. The Enchanted Forest Sculpture Park will feature a diverse collection of intricate sculptures, each inspired by the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors will encounter ethereal installations by renowned artists, including: * “The Watcher” by Patrick Dougherty: A towering woven willow sculpture that resembles a watchful giant guarding the forest. * “The Tree of Light” by David Wilson: A mesmerizing tree-like structure illuminated with twinkling LED lights. * “Nature’s Embrace” by Susan White: A graceful and serene sculpture of a woman intertwined with nature. * “Legacy” by Ben Owen III: A massive carved oak tree stump that commemorates the site’s history as a landfill. The park will also incorporate interactive elements, allowing visitors to engage with the sculptures and explore their own creativity. Dynamic light displays will transform the park into a nocturnal wonderland, casting ethereal shadows and illuminating the artwork in a new light. “The Enchanted Forest Sculpture Park will be a destination unlike any other,” said Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer. “It will combine art, nature, and community in a truly magical way.” The park’s design emphasizes sustainability, with walkways constructed from recycled materials and a focus on protecting the natural environment. It will also serve as an educational resource, offering workshops and programs to inspire and engage visitors of all ages. The Enchanted Forest Sculpture Park is scheduled to open in phases, with the first sculptures being installed in 2023. The city has allocated $5 million towards the project, with additional funding being sought through grants and partnerships. “This park will be a testament to Asheville’s commitment to the arts and to creating a vibrant and livable city,” said Asheville Arts Commissioner Jillian Johnson. “We can’t wait to welcome visitors from around the world to explore this enchanting and thought-provoking destination.”