“Earth Tones” began as a multimedia jazz performance built around original works by composer and trumpeter Etienne Charles. Staff from the Appalachian State University Office of Arts Engagement attended the premiere and initiated conversations with Charles about expanding the single performance into a five‑month exhibition for our community.

“Sculpting with Paper: Hand Papermaking at Dieu Donné” highlights innovative sculptural works—all crafted by paper—created by artists from around the world. Featuring selections from the renowned Dieu Donné residency program, the exhibition showcases the incredible versatility of paper as a medium. Together, these works celebrate experimentation, materiality, and the global community of contemporary papermaking.

Established by Martin and Doris Rosen, this nationally recognized juried competition has long served as a point of pride for Appalachian State University. Presented annually by An Appalachian Summer Festival and the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, 10 sculptures are selected for installation in outdoor public settings across campus. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place and Best in Show. Rosen Award winners are selected by the invited juror and are announced at the Annual Sculpture Walk in July.

If every place has its unique genius loci—its distinctive (and often protective) spirit that animates place, then the southern Appalachian Mountains are no different. Indeed, the spirit of place may be more easily observed in the mountains of the Blue Ridge than other places.