Local artists, historic charm meet at UpMarket Gallery in Asheville

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A trio of historic buildings on Asheville’s Market Street has been transformed into a hub for local art, small business and community events.

UpMarket Gallery, founded by artist Heather Davis, occupies 66, 68 and 70 North Market St. The space features an art gallery, the Dog & Pony Show boutique showcasing local home decor and art, an event venue with a commercial kitchen, a tech-enabled conference room and a rentable photo studio. All spaces are available for daily, weekly or monthly rental.

Davis spent three years restoring the century-old buildings, a project funded in part through North Carolina and federal historic preservation tax credits. Local craftsmen contributed to the renovations, which included recreating original tin ceilings and restoring an ornamental parapet with tiles dating to 1926.

“The building, at 100 years old, was in very bad condition,” Davis said, noting that Hurricane Helene also delayed the final inspection and certificate of occupancy. “We found the parapet in pieces, including the original tiles, up on the roof. Expert masons were able to recreate it using the original materials.”

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Davis, who spent more than 30 years in investment management before retiring to Asheville, envisioned a space that supports artists and small businesses while celebrating the city’s historic architecture.

“There’s so much varied activity under our roof, all with the overarching idea of helping artists, those who love art, and small businesses prosper and thrive,” she said. “It’s a beautiful place, filled with the loving touches of the local artists and craftspeople who brought it back to life.”

UpMarket Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.