About ‘Round the Mountain
‘Round the Mountain began in the fall of 2004 when former Gov. Mark Warner’s Virginia Works Initiative designated funds to develop Southwest Virginia as a major cultural and heritage tourism destination and to begin an artisan and craft advocacy organization. The group received non-profit status in March 2006.
‘Round the Mountain has focused its efforts to “promote sustainable economic development of the region’s communities by assisting local artisans with marketing, educational, and entrepreneurial opportunities,” to quote our mission statement.
We have reached out to our members through public-private partnerships to provide educational gatherings and round tables, e-commerce and marketing workshops, and one-on-one coaching for RTM members. With the help of our funding partners, we began a craft registry with several types of membership; launched a website, redesigned in 2011; coordinated the development of 15 regional Artisan Trails that span our geographic area; set jurying standards and procedures for sale of craft work, food and wine at Heartwood, our artisan gateway center in Abingdon, and launched a major educational program to communicate the value of our artisans, farmers and craft venues to our communities and our region.
What We Do
Entrepreneurial Development
- Develop opportunities to build wholesale and retail markets for local craft work.
- Maintain a communication network for information and services for members.
- Provide a comprehensive educational plan
- Tourism Development
Maintain regional artisan trails network.
- Work with each of our localities to develop their own artisan trail brochure.
- Link visitors to cultural heritage and outdoor recreation activities through integration of the Southwest Virginia, The Crooked Road, ‘Round the Mountain and SWVA Cultural Center & Marketplace websites.
- Regional Economic Development
- Provide a regional voice, brand and network for our members.
- Develop strategies to connect craft and local foods to regional markets.
- Design a public education effort that communicates the value of locally produced craft & food; the unique experiences of the artisans themselves; and the authenticity of the communities that nurture the process.
Fall 2023 Jury Information
‘Round the Mountain – Southwest Virginia’s Artisan Network has announced dates for the Fall 2023 jury session. Applications and artwork will be accepted from September 5 – 18. Jury announcements will be made in early October.
New members will be eligible to have their work for sale at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace in Abingdon. They will also be entitled to participate in e-commerce and wholesale programs throughout Southwest Virginia.
Download the jury application here.
Explore Southwest Virginia Art!
Explore the wonderful world of art in Southwest Virginia. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Southwest Virginia is home to a vibrant community of artisans, artists, and craftspeople along with a diverse collection of shops and galleries and a bustling calendar of events. Get started exploring today!
