Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia's Artisan Network

Overview

Round the Mountain: Southwest Virginia's Artisan Network is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the artisanal crafts of Southwest Virginia. Established in the early 2000s as part of former Gov. Mark Warner's Virginia Works Initiative, the organization officially received nonprofit status in March 2006. Its mission is to foster sustainable economic development in the region by focusing on the heritage and cultural traditions of Southwest Virginia through artisanal crafts.

Mission and Activities

The primary objective of Round the Mountain is to assist local artisans in refining their skills, expanding market reach, and connecting with audiences interested in high-quality, locally made crafts. This is achieved through a variety of activities, including:

• Juried Membership: Artisans undergo a rigorous jurying process to ensure the quality and authenticity of their work.
• Educational Initiatives: The organization offers training programs, workshops, and one-on-one coaching to enhance artisans' entrepreneurial skills.
• Regional Events: Round the Mountain coordinates seasonal markets and events that bring artisans together with potential buyers, featuring live music, children's activities, and book signings.
• Artisan Trails: The network has developed 15 regional artisan trails, allowing visitors to explore the region's craftsmanship firsthand.

Membership and Impact

Round the Mountain networks over 400 artisans across 19 counties and four cities in Southwest Virginia. Members are encouraged to participate in events such as the seasonal markets held at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace, where over 200 artisans have their work displayed. The organization plays a significant role in promoting the region's cultural heritage by highlighting traditional crafts like pottery, quilting, as well as modern art forms such as glasswork and painting.

Cultural and Economic Contribution

By supporting local artisans, Round the Mountain contributes to the preservation of traditional crafts and fosters economic growth in Southwest Virginia. The organization collaborates with other partners to develop e-commerce platforms, marketing workshops, and educational programs that help artisans become better entrepreneurs.

Legacy

Since its inception, Round the Mountain has been instrumental in positioning Southwest Virginia as a major cultural and heritage tourism destination. Its efforts have not only preserved the region's artisanal traditions but have also enhanced the local economy by creating opportunities for artisans to market and sell their crafts both locally and beyond.

[1] https://roundthemountain.org [2] https://friendsofswva.org/aboutculturalcenter/artisan/ [3] https://shop.swvaculturalcenter.com [4] https://visitabingdonvirginia.com/places/round-the-mountain-southwest-virginias-artisan-network/ [5] https://roundthemountain.org/about/