For nearly twenty years, ‘Round the Mountain Artisan Network has been at the heart of Southwest Virginia’s creative community. Since its founding in 2005, RTM has connected artisans with the tools, training, and opportunities they need to grow their businesses and share their craft with the world. Along the way, the network has helped preserve the region’s cultural traditions while fueling tourism and economic development.
As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’re highlighting the people and partners who bring this mission to life. These five stories showcase how artisans, member businesses, and community collaborators have flourished with RTM’s support—illustrating not only the impact of the past two decades, but also the promise of what’s still ahead.
One crisp, clear morning in the deep woods of Southwest Virginia, Patty Younger walks in silence. She steps carefully over damp leaves and storm-tossed limbs, breathing in the scent of rain rising from the earth. Her fingers brush against a soft piece of oak, its...