The Bascom: A Center for Visual Arts

The Bascom, situated in Highlands, North Carolina, is a cultural anchor designed to foster community engagement through art. Developed on a six-acre former horse farm, the arts center integrates a historic 1838 barn frame, relocated from Pennsylvania, with contemporary design elements, symbolizing a bridge between tradition and modernity. The facility was designed to serve as a flexible cultural space, housing exhibition galleries for permanent and traveling collections, classrooms for art education programs, and areas for community gathering. The campus not only serves as a creative hub for year-round residents but also accommodates the influx of seasonal visitors, offering a rich variety of art workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events. The juxtaposition of the barn’s historic materials with modern architectural features, such as full-glass doors and open, airy spaces, reflects the center’s mission to honor regional heritage while embracing contemporary art and ideas. This thoughtful design approach fosters an inclusive environment where the cultural heritage of Western North Carolina is celebrated through diverse artistic expressions, helping The Bascom to play a pivotal role in nurturing the creative economy of the region.