HEARTH & ANVIL
Join us on October 3, 2025, 6:00-8:30 pm, for an unforgettable outdoor experience on Tryon Arts & Crafts School’s (TACS) west campus, commemorating the anniversary of Hurricane Helene with a celebration of Appalachian tradition. Ticket sales to TACS’ Hearth & Anvil fundraiser will support the school, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, allowing us to continue providing opportunities such as the Helene Relief Artist in Residency Program. While fortunate compared to some, TACS and neighboring Harmon Field were significantly impacted by the storm with property damage, temporary closure, and cancellation of key events and programs. Hearth & Anvil is an opportunity to reflect on the past year and support the school, while enjoying traditional open-flame cooking and interactive art demonstrations alongside our new Terra Flora sculpture. The sculpture was constructed using natural and found materials from the aftermath of the hurricane.
This laid-back, yet refined event captures the essence of a casual mountain picnic infused with a touch of sophistication. Long tables with rustic linens set the stage for a communal feast. There, you will indulge in a curated menu of locally-sourced fare by renowned chef John Wilson. John will demonstrate open-flame methods on TACS’ custom-designed grill fabricated in our forge and welding studios exclusively for this event, which first premiered in March, 2024.
Guests are invited to a half-hour social, where they can enjoy a selection of delectable bites. A beautiful buffet dinner will follow, featuring an exquisite array of dishes. Our esteemed sponsor, Biltmore Winery, has expertly curated wine pairings that will be available to complement the meal.
MENU
Passed Appetizers
Hopping John hummus cups with crisp vegetables (V, Veg)
Beef crostini with chimichurri
1st Strike
Kombucha Squash Fall Hash
Locally grown Japanese variety of squash roasted and blended with fresh rosemary grilled tofu, sweet potato, butternut squash and crisp kale
The Iron’s Hot
Vegetarian Option:
Harvest Salad
Wild rice, apples, delicata squash, pecans, and pomegranate
Meat Option:
Flame Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Pork seasoned and grilled with Flame kissed zucchini, roasted rosemary potatoes, and a rich apple sauce
Glaze
Pumpkin Cobbler
With soft cinnamon whipped cream
Molasses Cake
A dark local sorghum molasses cake with a buttery spice crumb
As you dine under the open sky, witness captivating craft demonstrations in flame-based arts. The ambiance will be enhanced by live traditional music from Will Trakas and his PacJAM musicians from Tryon Fine Arts Center.
Ticket holders may look forward to interactive Earth Art activities with artist Crista Cammaroto, in conjunction with her new in-progress outdoor sculpture, Terra Flora. The sculpture, a tribute to our region’s recovery from Hurricane Helene, was constructed in partnership with Conserving Carolina and partially funded by the Polk County Appearance Commission. Crista invites participants to add to freshly made “earth spheres”, as well as spread mica dust, spices, and seeds to enliven our Terra Flora work for a vibrant fall and added growth in the Spring!
Demonstrators will be treating guests to all things flame in the Urquhart Welding and Forge studios during the evening’s affair.
Braze Welding: Joe Cooper, TACS Instructor and Master Welder at The Heirloom Companies
Blacksmithing: Jared Scott of Saluda Forge
Raku Pottery: Jim Cullen, potter and TACS Instructor
Silversmithing: Allen Brown, TACS Instructor
Guests are guaranteed a perfect blend of casual elegance at the gateway of the Blue Ridge.
NOTICE FOR HEARTH & ANVIL TICKET HOLDERS:
RAIN PLAN
Hearth & Anvil is a rain-or-shine event. TACS will provide enclosed event tents and heaters as needed for maximum comfort.
PARKING
Guests arriving should turn off of Harmon Field Road at the tennis courts. The drive wraps around TACS’ forge and welding studios (on your right) and leads you to our rear parking lot. There, you will find the entrance to the event on your far right.
CHECK-IN
Please check in with the Hearth & Anvil Hostesses, who will confirm your attendance without need for a physical ticket.
RESTROOMS
Restrooms will be accessible in TACS’ main building. Walk past the event tents, up the steps or the hill to the right. Enter by the Wood Studio. The men’s room is to your right immediately after the library. The women’s room is past the men’s room, around the corner and on your right.
ANNUAL SPONSOR
New View Realty
EVENTS & GENERAL SPONSORS
Overmountain Vineyards
Nature’s Storehouse
Tryon Theatre
Biltmore Wines
TACS receives operational support from Polk County Community Foundation, North Carolina Arts Council, and the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina.
