Artists

The Saints of Paint is a collective, who came informally in the River Arts District in Asheville at the studio of John Mac Kah 2012 to raise funds for a local food bank. We set up an open house for a local organization, and dedicated 50% of sales to their benefit. We saw an opportunity for a shared venture to benefit both worthwhile organizations and local artists. Artists pay a modest entrance fee to cover SOP expenses, curate the show, and provide display and set up. The Saints of Paint can also provide assistance with marketing, graphic design, and finding sponsors.

Core and founding artists include: John Mac Kah, Susan Kokora, Christine Enochs, Dana Irwin, Mark Henry. Contributing artists, range include youth group, local college students from UNCA, Warren Wilson, and seasoned professionals. Each show is curated by invitation, and artists chosen in relation to the theme, size of venue, and not-for-profit partners’ mission. Unfortunately, in 2019 – 2021 in person events were cancelled or limited. As we move forward into 2023 we are planning for alternatives.

We were forced to put shows on the back burner through the pandemic, but in 2020 – 2022, SOP artists were represented in the Art in Embassies Program, US Department of State, Pristina, Kosovo.

Event Logistics

From their creation in 2012 to the present, they have produced successful events throughout the Asheville area. Events include a gala or opening reception, followed by a 2 -14 day art exhibition.

Income is generated by ticketed gala or opening, often underwritten by in-kind sponsors and donors, and art sales during the event. Ticket sales go to the beneficiary. Of equal importance are the benefits of public relations and community awareness. The not-for-profit can also take pride in promoting and supporting seasoned and emerging artists through sales of their work.

Saints of Paint volunteers assist with graphics design, catalog production, staging, and promotion.

Partners

Since founding in 2012 through 2019, we have successfully raised over $110,000. through art sales for Appalachian Wildlife Refuge, Appalachian Barn Alliance, Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, and Riverlink – French Broad River.

Sponsors

Event sponsors have included: Zelandia Holding Company, Town & Mountain Realty, First Citizens Bank, Grovewood Village, Frugal Framer, Strada Restaurant, Addison Farms Vineyard, Whole Foods, Highland Brewery, Oscar Blues, Sierra Nevada, Irwin Design, Fresh Market, Penrose Environmental, JMK Studios, Fig Bistro, Mars Hill University, Lenoir-Rhyne Unviersity, Green Sage Cafe, Blackbird Frame & Art, First Citizen Bank, First Bank-Asheville, New Belgium Brewing.