About the Director
Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life — Pablo Picasso
“I have been involved in creating and administrating art programs for over 30 years. In addition, I have had tremendous experiences developing aspects of my own artwork during artist residencies in the US and France. I am moved by what happens when artists and writers spend time together in environments set apart for the sole purpose of facilitating creative work in the arts. When people are given space, inspiration, and time to do their creative work, it energizes and transforms them and their communities. That is what Cullowhee Mountain ARTS is all about. I know how good it feels to have time dedicated exclusively to focusing on our creative work without interruptions and to savor creative exchange with other artists. I want to make sure participants can enjoy these same luxuries. It is important they are able to learn and pursue their passions while leaving housing, meals, and logistics to the CMA staff.
Norma Hendrix, holds a BFA from Ohio University, an MA from Western Carolina University, and an MFA from Johnson State College, Vermont. An active teacher, she has served as undergraduate and graduate faculty in the School of Art and Design at Western Carolina University. She has been involved in creating children's and adult art educational programs for over 35 years. Hendrix founded and served as Director of Studio 598, a teaching studio for children and adults in Sylva, NC, held the position of Director of Education at The Bascom Art Center in Highlands, NC and is currently the founder and Executive Director of Cullowhee Mountain ARTS. Hendrix has managed to stay committed to her studio practice, juggling her administrative duties with her creative work. She maintains an active exhibition schedule, and her work is held in several private collections.