January 2026
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Handling Creative Doubt in the New Year π
by NEW newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
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For the artist, the familiar shock of a new year can come with some heavy, spiky reflection. “I can’t believe I’m still at this job.” “I feel like I’ve taken no steps toward my creative goals.” “I’m not nearly as ambitious as my creative friends and role models so I deserve to contribute NOTHING to the artistic canon of humanity!!!!!”
That last one may be a little dramatic… but whatever! Let’s be dramatic! The job market is scary, and the cold loom of fascism and AI and technocratic belligerence blar blar blar is making all of our eyes glaze over. Which means we need to be making & sharing art more than ever!
So, I digress. I’m actually not here to be the mayor of doomsville. But, I am going to talk about grappling with creative doubt—something I’ve faced lately, with my cool new position on this awesome creative magazine you may have heard of: Carolina Muse Literary & Arts Magazine!
Hi, I’m Kaylin! With Jenna moving on to be Carolina Muse’s Stories Editor (CUE THE APPLAUSEπ), I’m the new newsletter writer! I live in Wilmington, North Carolina. I like the Beastie Boys, Carly Rae Jepsen, and Rostam. In my free time, I walk, watch shows, read, write less than I’m supposed to, meditate, do photography, and make ambitious creative plans that I have yet to execute. Boom, we’re acquainted!
So, let’s talk about creative doubt. Why does it feel so impossible to execute the creative plans I believe in? (Don’t say ADHD.) To me, it all comes back to the brain.
Grass Will Grow
Visual Art by Moyan Wang
Issue V.II
The brain is designed for pattern recognition in order to keep you alive. Stovetop = hot = ow. You can also think about those quick, random thoughts that make you go, “Woah, I don’t agree with that at all. Where did that come from?” Your brain has catalogued all the rhetoric you’ve ever witnessed, so sometimes your brain is like, “This is correct response, yes?” and you have to be like, “Hey dude, not at all!”
Because the brain is obsessed with pattern recognition, it revels in predictability and is resistant to change. This is what makes doubt so convenient for the brain. When you come up with an ambitious creative goal, you’re pitching an unknowable, incalculable situation to your brain. And, how does your brain combat this unknowable, incalculable proposition? With doubt!
My doubt always takes on the same voice. I’m not good enough, not disciplined enough, I’m going to get fired, I’m going to give up, I shouldn’t even try. What do all these sentiments have in common? They keep me stagnant. I get fired, and now I’m back where I started. I don’t even try, so nothing changes.
Doubt is a trick of the mind to keep you in situations your brain is already familiar with.
Is thinking about doubt this way going to eliminate it entirely? Yes! Kidding. No. But, facing doubt in a pragmatic way takes some of the heat out of it. When I brush off doubt, it always comes back. So, holding onto negative emotions like that for one second longer in order to say, “What purpose are you trying to serve?” helps me demystify them.
So, go for it! Make art!!! “It’s going to be bad.” Okay, fine! Then make bad art! Put joy in the process! Make art in your favorite place, with your favorite people, eating your favorite food, drinking your favorite drink! Turn the making into a love letter to yourself.
Happy New Year!
Get excited for a new issue of Carolina Muse, hot off the press on February 14th, 2026!
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Carolina Arts Events in January
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North Carolina
Durham, NC | January 1 | Free
Pull up to the Durham Armory for a full day of dancing, music, kids activities, face paint, drum circles, food trucks, vendors & more!
Under the Silver Moon Lantern Parade
Cary, NC | January 10 | Free
Enjoy a parade of unique, handmade paper lanterns throughout Downtown Cary Park.
North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
Cary, NC | Ends January 11 | $16-$30
Immerse yourself in a world of wonder with thousands of all NEW handcrafted, illuminated lanterns showcasing various themes. This walk-through experience also features captivating cultural performances, a variety of concessions, and interactive elements.
IMPACT Series II: Music by Black Composers
Raleigh, NC | January 15 | Free; suggested donation
NCCMI Faculty Artists and Guest Musicians perform music by Black Composers in Honor of MLK, Jr. Day. Curated by Dr. Timothy Holley, NCCMI Faculty and student musicians will perform.
Black Author Exhibit and Creative Contest Presentation
Apex, NC | January 16 | Free
Join community members to meet and hear from Black Authors in an open exhibit at the Apex Senior Center! K-12 Creative Contest Winners will also present their contest submissions for attendees.
Durham, NC | January 17 | $3
Guided by local artist Adam Cooley, you’ll learn essential mark-making techniques like hatching, shading, and using negative space to bring contrast and drama to your designs.
Free Ukulele Lessons at KΕMANA Brewing Company
Cary, NC | January 4, 18 | Free
Learn to play the ukulele, no experience needed! They'll teach you the basics to get you playing in no time.
Blowing Rock, NC | January 22-25 | Some events free
Whether you’re taking the daring Polar Bear Plunge, admiring the breathtaking ice sculptures, indulging in local delicacies, or enjoying the range of family entertainment, WinterFest in Blowing Rock promises to be an enchanting experience.
Durham, NC | Every Saturday | Free parking
The Durham Craft Market is proud to provide a marketplace for local handmade arts and crafts that encourages creativity and design innovation and honors the art of craftsmanship. Meet your local artists and find out how they make their craft.
Asheville, NC | All January | Admission included in Arboretum parking fee
These seven to nine feet tall friendly and fanciful sculptures evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue as they study our small, intricate and inventive ways of life in Western North Carolina.
South Carolina
Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume
Columbia, SC | Ends January 4 | ~$33
The critically acclaimed showcase features 70 costumes from beloved characters such as Cinderella, Maleficent, and more, highlighting the innovative ways iconic characters are brought to life through the artistry and imagination of their costumes.
Always Flourishing and CeramicSea at Hyman Fine Arts Center
Florence, SC | New Exhibit Begins January 6 | Free
New exhibits in the Hyman Fine Arts Center explore the relationship between images, objects, and memory from lens-based artist Rebekah Alviani. Hayley De González's ceramics explore forms, textures, and palettes found in the ocean and along the shoreline. Fish scales, shells, tidal patterns, sandy textures, and muted hues inform the surfaces of these pieces.
South Carolina | January 8-18 | Price Varies
From fine to casual dining, participating restaurants will feature new menu items, offer fan favorites, and multi-course menus during Restaurant Week South Carolina!
Unforgettable: The Civil Rights Photography of Cecil Williams
Florence, SC | January 11 | Free
Join Florence County Museum for a free, docent-led tour of Unforgettable: The Civil Rights Photography of Cecil Williams in the museum’s Special Exhibit Gallery.
Snow Queen presented by Grand Kyiv Ballet
Charleston, SC | January 11 | $43-$143 seating options
Join the Grand Kyiv Ballet for the WORLD Premiere of the new Ballet, The Snow Queen.
Figure Drawing at 906 Art Gallery
Greenville, SC | January 13 | $12
Draw from a live nude model for a 2-hour session at 906 Art Gallery. All skill levels are welcome to attend! 18 and up only.
Art After Hours – Tree Ring Prints
Florence, SC | January 15 | $10
Join Curator of Education Uschi Jeffcoat & artist Adrian Smith for this session that takes a closer look at tree rings and how to use them to create art. You will learn how to produce your own tree ring prints and take a print home with you.
Columbia, SC | January 10, 15, 17, 18, 22, 25 | Free with membership or admission
Join the Columbia Museum of Art for vibrant tours of Keith Haring: Radiant Vision, featuring original works from iconic Pop artist Keith Haring, a shooting star of the 1980s New York art scene.
February 2026
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Creative Collaboration
Recycled Valentines & Star, NC's Artistic Revival
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
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Today, you’re getting a scrappy Valentine’s Day assignment!
Get your people together for a Valentine’s Day card making party, but have everyone only bring scraps from around the house! Old power bills, coupons to restaurants you don’t go to, that sticker sheet you haven’t used, the credit cards you get in the mail, those magazines you grabbed to collage with but haven’t yet. Use the things already at your fingertips to make Valentine’s Day cards. Tag us on Instagram @carolina.muse—we want to see what you all make for each otherπ
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The Creative Revival of Star, North Carolina
I had this idea while reading about how Star, NC repurposed their neglected textile mill into a creative haven for potters, glass artists, and metal artists. Founded in the 1940s, the Russell Hosiery Mill defined the town’s identity for sixty years until it shut down in 2001. For Star, the mill’s closing punctuated the textile industry’s successful search for cheaper labor. The slow march took the form of at least a thousand jobs lost over the passing of decades.
In 2004, the building was donated to Central Park NC, an organization that fosters futures for rural communities by “preserving and growing what these places already had: culture, craft, and a deep sense of place.” Rather than hoping for another company to buy the old factory, donating the building enabled Central Park NC to collaborate with the people of Star to turn the mill back into a place where people could make something. They began with ceramics, using the clay that was already all around them in their North Carolina soil. They then opened their doors to glass works, and later earned a grant that allowed them to offer “workforce training in glass, ceramics, and metal arts; internships, apprentices, and residencies.”
Because of the momentum at this artistic hub (Starworks), tourism became a part of Star’s economy for the first time ever. Their events invite thousands of people into Star, NC.
Read the article because they have more cool information than I’m including here! I’m so in love with stories about the revival of a place through artistic, communal collaboration.
The Forthcoming Issue of Carolina Muse
Carolina Muse has been pretty communally creative lately, as well: Issue V.III comes out this Valentine’s Day, February 14th! It’s our Valentine's Day card to you! Except, our card is 8.5 x 11” and has a bunch of pages and costs about exactly $15 more than it usually does to receive a Valentine’s Day card.
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But seriously, we’re so grateful to everyone who took the time to contribute to this issue. I love the sentiments that come with February: this odd little holiday nestled between the twilight of Christmas and the excitement of spring, this brief season of heartfelt collaboration. We’re so happy we get to spend it showcasing your work! You’re the reason we’re able to put this labor of love into the world—our very own, communally built, artistic haven.
π Join us on Instagram Live Saturday morning, February 14th, to hear from some of our published creators as they share more about the inspiration & creation process behind their work!
What Can You Do For Minneapolis?
In a final note on creative collaboration, here are a couple things you can do to aid the people of Minneapolis right now. I’m getting this information from @mspackyetti on Instagram.
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Follow local voices, specifically marginalized folks. The people who are most likely to experience state violence have the perspectives that are most important to amplify. Some people she listed in her original video are @minneapolisward2, @racialjusticemn, @sahanjournal, @bygeorgiafort, @indigenousfoodlab, @nekimal, @minnesota50501, @38thandchicagogfs, and @mnicewatch.
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Donate to or share the Legal Defense Fund for the activists who unmasked the confirmed leader of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Saint Paul.
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Support / share / donate to / keep up with the organizations on the front lines of relief and resistance in Minneapolis.
Above all else, it is more important now than ever to dig into your community. I’ve found that volunteering is a great way to meet people you wouldn’t otherwise. Find a nonprofit in your area and cold email! It really is as simple as, “I love what your organization does, do you have any volunteer opportunities? I would love to help.” Research programming put on by libraries, nonprofits, advocacy centers, small theaters, the like. Community is all around you, but it’s up to you to be a part of it!
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Carolina Arts Events in February
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North Carolina
BITE: A Performance by Raheleh Filsoofi
Durham, NC | February 5 | Free
BITE centers on the intimate & deliberate act of biting the clay plate—an imprint of presence, resistance, and reclamation. Through this gesture, Filsoofi engages the material histories of place and the embodied experience of marking, shaping, and being shaped by one’s environment. Following the performance, Filsoofi will give an artist talk in the Lecture Hall.
Charlotte, NC | February 6 | Free
Hickory Grove Public Library welcomes national bestselling author ReShonda Tate in conversation with author Vanessa Miller.
Exhibit and Talk with Artist Nellie Ashford
Charlotte, NC | February 7 | Free
Nellie Ashford is a self-taught folk artist from the Charlotte area. Her mixed-media folk art depicts the experiences of Charlotte’s African-American community from the Jim Crow era to contemporary day in the U.S. South.
Artists Talk Series: Art and Mental Health
Charlotte, NC | February 7 | Free
Artists Talks at the VAPA Center are held at 5 PM every Open Studio, first Saturday of the month. Take a seat to listen to artists discuss their unique way of creativity.
Charlotte, NC | February 8 | Free
Afro Legacy Fest 2026 will be an unforgettable celebration blending culture, history, and entertainment. In partnership with La Casa de la Cultura, Afro Legacy Fest 2026 is a call to unity, a tribute to resilience, and a space to honor our roots while building a brighter future together.
Asheville, NC | February 9 | Free
In this film, a young African American man grapples with his identity and sexuality while experiencing the everyday struggles of childhood, adolescence, and burgeoning adulthood.
Durham, NC | February 10 | Free
Got some old craft or art supplies lying around? Ready to start a new craft for the new year? Bring you gently used art & craft supplies to swap for some new-to-you supplies. All crafts and arts welcome.
Asheville, NC | February 12 | $40, but N.O.T.A.F.L.O.F. (no one turned away for lack of funds!)
Gather with us at the cozy Blind Tiger Asheville for a relaxed evening of watercolor + collage that celebrates art as something for everyone.
Durham, NC | February 12, 26 | Free
Ink & Insight is a collaborative writing feedback & critique group where writers of all kinds are welcome. Bring 5 paper copies of up to 2,000 words of your writing and you'll leave with actionable feedback. It doesn't matter if you write fiction, essays, poetry, or movie reviews—there's space for all writers in the club.
Wilmington, NC | February 14 | Free
The event will consist of: Over 20+ artists (from all over North Carolina), showcasing their Keith Haring inspired work. Discover a sticker-making station, Community Doodle Wall, photo booth, and RizzyBeats spinning 80's & 90's party jams!
I Am Not Your Negro: A Screening
Asheville, NC | February 19 | Free
In 1979, James Baldwin wrote a letter to his literary agent describing his next project, Remember This House. The book was to be a revolutionary, personal account of the lives & assassinations of three of his close friends: Medgar Evers, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. At the time of Baldwin's death in 1987, he left behind only 30 completed pages of this manuscript. Filmmaker Raoul Peck envisions the book James Baldwin never finished.
Live Glassblowing Demonstration
Charlotte, NC | February 20 | Free
Enjoy a live glassblowing demonstration, where Hot Glass Alley's hot shop team will be making 1-2 sculptural pieces in front of a live audience! Snack and beverages are provided with no reservation or ticket necessary for entry.
Black His/Her story Carnival & Block Party
Wilmington, NC | February 21 | Pay what you can!
WilmingtoNColor celebrates Black heritage & culture with Black History mini-tours and a carnival on Saturday, February 21. The carnival will feature family-friendly games, bounce houses, music, food vendors, presentations and more!
Winston-Salem, NC | February 21 | $15 per time block
Queer Fear Film Festival celebrates queer stories from the dark, weird, and wild end of the genre spectrum.
Black History Month Screenings at the Independent Picture House
Charlotte, NC | Multiple Dates | $9.75 per screening
Celebrate Black History Month with special screenings & panel discussions!
Living in Color: Black History Month Art Exhibit
Raleigh, NC | All February | Free
Curated by Raleigh Film and Art Festival and hosted in partnership with Dix Park, this riveting exhibit is a month-long display of visual art representing the experience of people of color living in the South.
South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, SC | February 7 | Free
The annual Spill The Tea is a gathering of over 30 authors of various genres. Special author talks throughout the day with authors Spilling The Tea about their latest books. Meet, greet, purchase books, and have a little tea.
Columbia, SC | February 12, 21, 28 | Free
Degenerate Art Project, is a contemporary SC-localized reflection of the Nazi Party’s 1937 Entartete Kunst (Degenerate Art) exhibition in Munich at which more than 650 pieces of Modernist art were haphazardly displayed alongside graffiti and mocking text labels with the goal of denigrating and ridiculing the art and artists. The exhibition included the work of 112 artists including Picasso, Mondrian, Chagall, Kandinsky, Klee, Dix, and many other groundbreaking artists. The website of the US Holocaust Memorial Museum offers an excellent overview of this period of world history.
Columbia, SC | February 14 | $12.51
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Columbia, South Carolina at this grassroots parade & festival ft. live music, Cajun eats & more. Laissez les bons temps rouler!
SIGNS: Sealed, Delivered Exhibition
Greenville, SC | Exhibit ends February 15 | Free
Join Florence County Museum for a free, docent-led tour of Unforgettable: The Civil Rights Photography of Cecil Williams in the museum’s Special Exhibit Gallery.
The Fantastic World of Bob Logrippo: A Retrospective
Spartanburg, SC | Exhibit ends February 28 | Free
The artwork of Robert (Bob) Logrippo, a native of New York, has been described as “America naïve or in the American Crafts style.” Stylistically, his work may have resembled those styles, but he was a trained commercial illustrator whose work appeared in major publications and on product packaging for several decades, says Scott Cunningham, Solomon Gallery director. Logrippo primarily worked in acrylics on canvas, linen, or panel.
March 2026
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Blind Date with a Piece
Issue VI.I, Submission Call, and Connecting with the Work
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
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On February 14th, we put issue VI.I of Carolina Muse into the world! Can you believe we’ve entered year six? If you have the (correct) burning desire to own the physical copy, you can follow this link to order yours! Want to be a part of everything we’re making here? You're in luck! We are accepting submissions for issue VI.II until April 15th!
For those of you who want to read the new issue but don’t feel like you have the time, we've got something for you. Here’s a bite-sized approach to issue VI.I! We’re setting you up with… well… however many matches you want! Below is “Blind Date with a Piece”! Get a taste for some of our featured pieces, and see if you want to take things furtherπ
Hello!
I trace the shape of South Carolina’s marshes, her skies, and the storms we inherit from survival. I’m a poem by Joely Williams, I’m a memory, I’m a storm gathering.
Hi there,
(this voice is muffled) I’m a little jumbled up and weighed down at the moment, but I’m a combination of textile art and photography! Emily Shelton made me into a soft sculpture out of recycled materials!
Hello.
Everything is changing and I can’t seem to keep up. I’m a prose piece by B. P. Gallagher, but I’m all about music. Well, I guess I’m about a musician. No one seems to care about the music anymore.
Help! I mean, Hi!
I’m dealing with way bigger issues right now than this creative magazine speed dating gimmick or whatever this is. If I had time to talk to you, I’d say I’m a macabre, heavenly sculpture that’s been artfully wounded by Skye Flodder. But I don’t have time! I’m literally dying.
Hello!
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I’m a warning, but overall a comfort! I’m weighed down by what’s been taken from us, but so are you—there’s no reason we can’t find solace in each other. I’m a song brought to life by Elizabeth McCorvey! Let’s take a breather while the trumpet plays.
Hello,
I’m faithful, bound to the fire that I can’t escape on my own. I watch the disaster from the shore. I barrel forward into the storm for her, again. I’m a poem by Samantha J. Pomerantz, weathering the tides.
Hey, hey,
I’m here, just a little scattered. I’m all geometrically thought up. I lose track of the border between myself and the world. I’m a visual art piece by James Daniel Horstman. I’m sharp at first glance, but easy if you stare.
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Carolina Arts Events in March
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North Carolina
Asheville, NC | March 3 | $15
The No Man’s Land Film Festival is the premier all women + genderqueer adventure film festival. This special event showcases a curated selection of films that highlight inspiring stories of female adventurers from around the world and tailored for students.
Art Swap & Artist Mingle at Ment Beverage Co.
Durham, NC | March 12 | Free
Ment Beverage Co. is thrilled to partner with the Durham Art Guild to host an Art Swap & Artist Mingle event! This free gathering is an exciting opportunity for artists and art enthusiasts to come together, connect, and share their creativity.
The Write Stuff! Creative Writing Group
Raleigh, NC | March 15 | Free
If you enjoy creative writing or would like to try it for the first time, then this Creative Writing Workshop may be just the place for you. Everyone will work together to explore creative writing in a safe, open, and encouraging environment. You may bring a short story or chapter from a larger body of work for peer feedback. 18+ only.
Asheville Fringe Arts Festival
Asheville, NC | March 15-22 | Varies per event
Asheville Fringe Arts Festival brings innovative theater, dance, spoken word and performance arts to venues throughout town. This multiple-venue festival provides artists with opportunities to explore the edges of their work.
Mt. Pleasant Literary Festival
Mount Pleasant, NC | March 19-21 | Free
The Mt. Pleasant Literary Festival is a three day celebration of books, authors, and the literary arts, dedicated to fostering a love of reading in all ages!
Wilmington, NC | March 21 | Free
A family-friendly celebration of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, and all things fandom! They’re on a mission to foster creativity and celebrate the literary & artistic talents in our community. Whether you're an artist, writer, creator, or passionate fan, this event is for you!
South Carolina
Greenville, SC | March 6 | Free
Join GCCA for the first Friday of the month for their NightShifts. Every month you can enjoy new gallery exhibitions, studio artists, performing arts series, demos, and more!
Clemson, SC | March 25-27 | Free
The Clemson Literary Festival is an annual event that seeks to bring students, faculty, alumni, and the surrounding communities together through a mutual love and appreciation for the Arts and Humanities.
Columbia, SC | March 27 | Free
The Ubuntu Dance Festival – Community Dance Concert is a joyful celebration of unity, culture, and connection through dance. Rooted in the spirit of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—this uplifting evening brings dancers and community together to share movement, creativity, and collective joy.
Columbia, SC | March 27-29 | Free
Read Freely Fest is South Carolina’s newest book festival, celebrating stories and ideas with bestselling author talks, panels featuring fresh voices, performances and interactive activities. Each spring at Richland Library Main in downtown Columbia, you can meet favorite authors, discover new reads and connect with readers and writers who share inspiring perspectives.
April 2026
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Branding For A Creative Publication
first steps to creating your brand identity
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
Ever wanted to start your own creative magazine? (Yes, this includes every time you’ve exhaustedly told your friends, “ugh, let’s just start our own magazine!”)
In March, our Editor-in-Chief, Madison Foster, spoke at the SIPA Conference about how to brand your own magazine. Now, we’re passing that information to you!
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Gathering & organizing the perspectives of artists has always been a valuable way to spend energy, but it’s especially important now, as many people are looking to artists' perspectives to illuminate their opinions. So, let's brand your magazine!
π¨ Why does my magazine need branding?
Brand recognition will help people keep coming back to your magazine. Humans are experts in pattern recognition, so we want to take advantage of that! To brand a magazine means linking a unique identity and reputation to your organization.
πWhat makes up that unique identity?
Brand name, logo, fonts, color palettes, and other graphics! Consistent visual elements will help the viewer build a mental link between your magazine's aesthetics and the work that you do.
But visual elements aren't the only part of branding. Your brand should also take on its own voice, tone, and overall personality. If your brand were a person, how would it talk? Where would they frequent online and in person? Use these answers to guide how and where your brand presents itself.
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π How do I determine my branding choices?
By identifying your target audience! If you're already mulling over starting a magazine, then chances are you have an idea of what kind of art, tones, and genres you like.
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Imagine a room full of people who want to talk about all the same things you want to talk about it. What does this crowd look like? Where do they gather online and in real life? What sort of media are you all drawn to? Use the media you geek out over to inspire your branding choices! This will help to draw in people who are wanting to have the same conversations as you.
This is who your brand is speaking to. Who do you want listening?!
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Carolina Arts Events in April
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North Carolina
Asheville Comedy Festival-Spring Laugh Invasion
Asheville, NC | April 3-4 | $33
The Asheville Comedy Festival is proud to present Spring Laugh Invasion, a two-night comedy event featuring 18 of the country’s fastest-rising & funniest comedians.
Greensboro Bound Book Festival
Greensboro, NC | April 9-11 | Free
In true Greensboro Bound fashion, they will explore complex issues through respectful dialogue and thoughtful reflection. The 2026 Greensboro Bound Book Festival is a celebration of diverse voices & stories.
NC Azalea Festival Street Fair
Wilmington, NC | April 10-12 | Free
The North Carolina Azalea Festival Street Fair is the perfect melting pot to enjoy the best of what the festival has to offer! Friday through Sunday shop from a variety of 250+ arts & crafts vendors. On Saturday & Sunday, watch multicultural & children's performances at the Performing Arts Stage or listen to live music at the Azalea Alley Beer Garden while you sip on refreshments.
Wilmington, NC | April 11 | Free
Join the inventive, eclectic musical fun at the Alt-Zalea Music Festival, a casual all-volunteer indie music festival. Alt-Zalea has been a labor of love for over a decade, drawing incredibly talented musicians playing at fourteen venues along North Fourth Street in the walkable Brooklyn Arts District.
Wilmington Jewish Film Festival
Wilmington, NC | April 12, 26, 27, 29 | $10 per film
Enjoy provocative, compelling, heart-warming films by some of the most influential Jewish filmmakers of our time at beautiful Thalian Hall with the Wilmington Jewish Film Festival!
Spring Daze Art and Crafts Festival
Cary, NC | April 25 | Free
Wander through a beautiful, wooded setting as you browse more than 170 North Carolina artists, showcasing everything from paintings and pottery to jewelry & sculpture. Grab a local craft beer, take your time exploring the stalls, and soak up the relaxed, outdoor vibe.
South Carolina
Columbia, SC | April 4 | Free
Soda City Market is a European street market set between the 1300-1500 blocks of Main Street in the heart of downtown Columbia. Find everything to satisfy your brain, body, and belly, all made with love by local vendors!
Inaugural Flowertown Writing Marathon
Summerville, SC | April 11 | Free
The Flowertown Writing Marathon is an event that creates an environment for writers to create amongst their peers. Following a brief introduction, writers will break into small groups and explore, eat, sip, and write their way around historic downtown Summerville.
Spring Break: Writing Vacation Memories
Columbia, SC | April 16 | Free
Free community writing workshop! Write about the trips that shaped you, such as beach getaways & road trips, or quiet times spent close to home.
Columbia, SC | April 17-18 | Free
The City of West Columbia is proud to announce the return of the award-winning 3rd Annual Meeting Street Music Festival: a free, two-day celebration of live music, food, and community spirit.
Mandi Fugate Sheffel: Reading & Signing
Spartanburg, SC | April 30 | Free
Join Hub City Library for an evening with Mandi Fugate Sheffel, the author of The Nature of Pain. Sheffel will be reading from her new memoir, with a signing following immediately afterwards.
May 2026
Let's Talk Zines! πΊοΈ
Resources for making them & why you should start
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
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Hello future (and current!) zine makers!
You don’t always need to wait on acceptances to get your work into the hands of your friends and your community. Thus, the beauty of the zine! Making a zine and giving it out doesn’t require anyone's permission, and you don’t have to worry about stupid stuff like algorithms and shadow-banning. Were they worried about Meta's Community Guidelines when they started circulating the first science fiction zines in the 1930s? I’m thinking… probably not! Can you imagine a bliss like that?
While zine creators of the past didn’t have to worry about digital censorship, the same sentiments still apply. Zines are a cheap way to spread your ideas to your friends and community without needing a sign off from any person or organization. There’s a lot of power in that!
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Before they were even labeled as “zines” and were known more as self-published pamphlets, they were an organ for lots of pivotal movements because of their scrappy, do-it-yourself nature. They were instrumental to scenes like women’s suffrage, slavery abolition, the East L.A. Student Walkouts (protesting LA educational conditions for Chicanos), and the riot grrrl punk movement.
On a large scale, self-publication is critical to movements of social change. On a small scale? It’s a cool and engaging way to share information with your friends and community! Think of it like Powerpoint night, except its physical pamphlets made by you and your friends that you get to cherish forever and find in 30 years and be like, “Oh my god, this is the zine that Emma made about her favorite Chipotle order hacks, featuring the one where she gets two burritos for the price of one bowl! I should call her.”
So, let’s get into making the zine!!! (right after I link you to some further reading & watching materials in case you’re interested in learning moreπ€)
A brief history of Zines on SoMad’s Webpage
The ZINE Documentary on YouTube
Don't Need You - The Herstory of Riot Grrrl on YouTube
Making The Zine
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π Pick Your Theme
Your summer bucket list activities? The best toys from your childhood, ranked? A current yearbook of all your friends?
(P.S. it doesn’t actually have to be “about” anything. I like the concept of “junk zines,” which is literally stapling a bunch of junk together and folding it in half into a booklet. For me, this would probably look like the pile of cards and receipts that are supposed to make it into my journal at some unknowable point in time.)
ποΈ Gather Your Materials
Take to the skies! And, by the skies, of course I mean Pinterest, your library, your library’s online archives, other people’s library’s online archives, and of course: begging your friends to send you digicam photos from the concert you went to LAST spring! Or, draw it all from memory!
At this point, if you don't have InDesign (what we use for Carolina Muse!), you’ll probably need to painstakingly size your photos in Google Docs. I’m sorry.
Now, save that pdf and print it out at your library! If printing becomes confusing, ask a librarian for help. Librarians are usually very nice (:
Organize, cut, chop, tear, sew, glue, sticker, anything! Build your little zine, baby!
Zine Sizing
For a mini zine, you’ll only need a 8.5x11” sheet of paper and scissors, like so:
For a half letter zine (5.5” x 8.5”) You’ll need to fold your pages in half and staple them together along the spine. (Tip: Staple into cardboard. This will keep the staples straight so you can bend the little staple legs closed.
That should be enough to get you started!
Get everyone in on it too—have a zine party with your friends! And, feel free to tag us at @carolina.muse on Instagram with whatever you guys make. We wanna see! π
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Carolina Arts Events in May
North Carolina
Asheville, NC | May 1 | $20
A fashion show like no other, this show features 30 local designers with handmade creations, Asheville’s best and brightest models, a chance to shop the designers’ looks, and a DJ dance party to follow!
Durham, NC | May 1 | Free
Each evening starts with dinner & drinks open for service at 6:30pm, and DJ Travis Gales spinning his Friday Night Mix live at the park at 7 p.m. Then, the band takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. sharp. All the music is simulcast live through WNCU 90.7 FM. Then, after the show, DJ Travis will close the night out with a dance party in the park!
Charlotte, NC | May 1-3 | Varies based on event
BOOM Charlotte is an arts organization that believes in the explosive power of art to unite & strengthen our community. We reach across cultural divides to bring together creatives with a vision.
Carolina Clay Matters Pottery Festival
Charlotte, NC | May 9 | Free to attend
Experience the ceramic work of 100+ local artists of the greater Charlotte area, including long-time professionals & emerging artists!
FREE PATIO SHOW: Stella Hansen
Asheville, NC | May 10 | Free
Stella Hansen, a Nashville native, embodies the sound of her hometown. Starting when she was just four years old, she would accompany her dad on his lunch break to the classic honkytonk, Robert’s Western World. Stella grew up surrounded by the sweet sounds of traditional country music & old time alike.
Charlotte, NC | May 16 | Free to attend
Get ready to dive into a world of literary wonders, meet authors, and discover new stories to add to your collection. Whether you're a fan of fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, there's something for everyone at this event.
Durham, NC | May 16-17 | Free to attend
Experience the kefi (joy) of this annual event that draws thousands in the Triangle area. Admission is FREE and there will be fun for all ages, RAIN OR SHINE! Celebrate food, wine, and life with the Greeks. Enjoy our legendary hospitality. Dance to our lively bouzouki music, shouting "Opa!"
Sunset Performance Series: Alexis Raeana
Wilmington, NC | May 21 | Free; $5 Suggested Donation
Join CAM for an evening of live music with Alexis Raeana. A Wilmington-based vocalist and enrolled member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, Raeana is known for her powerful voice and commitment to uplifting others through her work.
5th Annual Festival of the Arts
Asheville, NC | May 23-24 | Free to attend
Residents & visitors will see some of the finest locally made art alongside national artists' works during this free, outdoor event. A scenic stroll amongst sparkling jewels, one of a kind paintings, exquisitely crafted glasswork, stunning sculpture and every medium of hand-made art, all in the artist's mecca that is downtown Asheville, rounds out the perfect Memorial Day Weekend for art appreciators around the county.
South Carolina
11th Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Fundraiser
Florence, SC | May 1 | Free to attend
The Greater Florence Habitat for Humanity team has designed a creative way to celebrate together while raising the support we need to further their mission. Join them for food, cold drinks, live music, chihuahua race & costume contest, and a night of dancing!
Print and Pour: Linocut Printmaking Workshop
Florence, SC | May 2 | $50
Ready to use your imagination and get your creativity flowing? Print and Pour is a fun, laid-back linocut printmaking workshop where you'll learn cool carving & printing techniques. Whether you're a newbie or a print pro, make unique prints while enjoying good vibes and great company at Cru Wine & Tap.
Charleston, SC | May 2 | Free
Experience a mesmerizing display of traditional, folk, and modern dances of cultures from around the world by local performers in vibrant costumes. The Butter Chicken food truck and Kona Ice will be on hand to serve up some tasty food options.
Greenville, SC | May 8-10 | Free to attend
With 140 juried visual artists on Artist Row representing 17 different mediums (glass, jewelry, painting, ceramics, wood, furniture, etc.), there's something for everyone! The festival also gives patrons the unique opportunity to meet exhibiting artists and see artmaking in process. In addition to Artist Row, a number of signature Artisphere experiences will be offered: Kidsphere free craft area, Live Art Demonstrations, and Street Chalk Art.
Columbia, SC | May 15-16 | Free
If you’re looking for the next major jazz destination in the South, you need to be in Columbia this May 15-16. ColaJazz has spent nearly a decade bringing icons like Wynton Marsalis and Kenny Garrett to their stage, and this year’s Jazz + Roots expansion is their most ambitious yet. It’s an elite musical curation in a stunning outdoor setting.
Myrtle Beach, SC | May 16 | Free
Fashion week concludes with a Runway Fashion Show featuring the season’s trendiest looks—complete with a beer & wine bar and light appetizers—all absolutely free!
Greenville, SC | May 23 | Free to attend
Enjoy a book swap with local authors & vendors! Join Sylph Printing at Papermoon Studios for a cozy afternoon of books & community, whether you’re an avid reader or a casual browser.
June 2026
New AI Protections for Authors
wishing you happy Pride + grants open for queer work
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
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Happy June everybody! ππ€
I love this month, where I get to dress overtly gay and go to queer little markets & events around town. But right now, I’m writing this from the backseat of the car on a family trip, and it’s reminding me of all the Junes I spent in my childhood bedroom, watching Pride parades on the global Snapchat story map. If you’re reading this from somewhere where you don’t get to safely express yourself, we’re wishing you a VERY HAPPY PRIDE from all of us at Carolina Museπ
I’ve been thinking a lot about protection lately, in lots of ways. Protecting your spirit, your momentum, your time, your intellectual property. I tend to beat up on myself when I don’t prioritize personal creative projects, which creates this weird cycle of trying to prioritize β‘οΈ failing to prioritize β‘οΈ feeling guilty. Is this resonating with you? π
I wonder how this cycle would change with a shift in perspective: what if we reminded ourselves that Doing The Work is something that protects the health of your spirit? The other cycle, the weird guilty one, does this strange thing where it pits you against the work instead of the reality: that you are synonymous with the work.
This June, resist the instinct to distance yourself from your art. Abolish the idea that yourself and your work are severed; you are one in the same!
I had grants on the mind this month!
The only thing better than being queer in June is being queer in June and getting funding to make your art! They were harder to find than I was anticipating, since a lot of grant deadlines seem to fall in the beginning of the year. However, I wanted to list the few open grants I did find, just in case they applied to any readers.
Illuminations Grant for Black Trans Women Visual Artists
Submission Deadline: July 2, 2026
Award: $10,000
+ $1,250 award to four distinguished finalists
The Illuminations Grant for Black Trans Women Visual Artists is an annual grant awarded to provide critical support to Black trans women whose work has often been under-recognized in the visual art field. Qualified artists must be self-identified Black trans women and trans femmes working in visual art and based in the United States.
Virginia Ramey Mollenkott Award
Submission Deadline: December 1, 2026
Award: $1,500
To encourage and support original research and study of LGBTQ religious history, LGBTQ-RAN offers an annual award for papers, the Virginia Ramey Mollenkott Award. Initiated in 2005, this award honors outstanding scholarship in LGBTQ religious history from among an array of academic papers submitted. The Virginia Ramey Mollenkott Award is the only award offered in this academic arena.
Yale LGBT Studies Research Fellowship
Submission Deadline: July 1, 2026
Award: $5,500 and access to Yale resources in LGBT Studies
Scholars from across the country and around the world are invited to apply for the Yale LGBT Studies Research Fellowship. This fellowship supports scholars from any field pursuing research in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or queer studies at Yale University, utilizing the vast faculty resources, manuscript archives, and library collections available at Yale. Graduate students conducting dissertation research, independent scholars, and all faculty are invited to apply. A brief research proposal must include specific details about the relationship of the resources at Yale University to the project and its significance within the larger field of scholarly concern.
Protection of your intellectual property!
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This one’s for the writers! The Author’s Guild recently published a set of clauses that can be used to protect authors against AI exploitation when negotiating contracts with publishers. The clauses cover topics like not allowing AI to substantially edit your work, or not allowing your work to train AI language models. It also covers things like retaining licensing rights to AI features like “chatting with a character” or “chatting with the book” so the publisher can’t just take them and run. You, as the author, would be able to maintain control over your shares and the licensing permissions of these features.
Basically, the Author’s Guild is trying to keep writers ahead of the power curve at a time when publishers may be banking on authors and their agents not thinking about things like this.
Stay safe out there, writers!
ποΈ
Carolina Arts Events in June
Carolina Muse IV.II Release Day - Saturday, June 13
Our latest issue will go live on our website Saturday morning! Celebrate with us afterward by tuning in to our Instagram Live Release Party, where our editorial team will interview featured creators from each art formπΈ
North Carolina
Raleigh, NC | Multiple June Dates | Price Varies
Raleigh Pride is a community-fueled spectrum of curated events aiming to highlight and contribute to the texture of the LGBTQ+ community through education, awareness, and entertainment.
Wilmington, NC | June 12-14 | Free
This multi-day festival will feature live music, art, performances, food, vendors, & inclusive community events – all coming together to celebrate Pride and uplift the vibrant LGBTQ2S+ community of the Cape Fear region.
Asheville, NC | June 13 | Free
WNC Trans+ Pride is a celebration of the transgender and gender-diverse community of Western North Carolina.
Chapel Hill-Carrboro Juneteenth Celebration
Chapel Hill, NC | June 19 | Free
Join them for their annual community gathering, which will include live performances, history exhibits, and a market with art vendors & nonprofits. Enjoy local food, music, dancing, and activities for the little ones.
Asheville, NC | June 19 | Free
This special celebration features headliner Kanika Moore and opening act Reggie Headen and the Nite Time Noon, bringing soulful sounds, powerful performances, and a celebration of Black culture & community. Join them at Pack Square Park for their Juneteenth Celebration—an evening of music, dancing, local flavors, and the spirit of freedom & community.
Wilmington, NC | June 20 | Free
From inflatable sculpture building and indigo dyeing to weaving and Adinkra stamping, guests are invited to engage directly with contemporary art and artistic traditions through immersive experiences designed for all ages and experience levels.
Triad Cultural Arts Juneteenth Festival
Winston Salem, NC | June 20 | Free
Step outside into Bailey Park and enjoy an exciting lineup of live entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, youth activities, and more throughout the day to honor the legacy of Juneteenth.
South Carolina
Outfest: A Famously Hot Block Party
Columbia, SC | June 6 | Free
Don’t miss SC Pride’s annual Midlands Pride Month takeover: OUTfest features local legends to national talent, the stage is set for performances that inspire, empower, and electrify.
Greenville, SC | June 6 | Free
Meet other local LGBTQIA+ resources, enjoy live performances, and shop local vendors!
Pivotal Performance: A Storyline Finale
Spartanburg, SC | June 7 | Free
Featuring returning artists EnbyBallet and others, as well as new collaborators in music, dance, theater, and multimedia arts, this culminating event will revisit and reimagine key themes and moments from every Storyline experience. Expect a sweeping, emotionally resonant performance that honors the quote at the heart of the series.
South Carolina Caribbean Carnival
Columbia, SC | June 11-14 | Price Varies
Carolina’s Caribbean Culture Festival was created to introduce, celebrate, and elevate Caribbean culture in South Carolina through immersive, authentic experiences.
Greenville, SC | June 12-13 | Free
The festival's entertainment lineup spans multiple genres, including New Orleans Jazz, Swing, Funk, Smooth Jazz, Big Band, Latin Jazz, Jazz Vocals. Bites from local food trucks and drink tents will be available throughout the festival.
Elite Dance Company presents EDC Season XV Recital
Florence, SC | June 13 | $32.75
Celebrating Season XV, Elite Dance Company presents an unforgettable recital featuring jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, hip-hop and majorette from dancers of all ages.
Columbia, SC | June 19 | Free
In celebration of Juneteenth, the Columbia Museum of Art honors African American and Black artists whose creativity and contributions continue to shape art & culture.
Fountain Inn, SC | June 19 | Free
This event honors the significance of Juneteenth through music, fellowship, and the flavors of traditional soul food.
Columbia, SC | June 20 | Free
For a decade, the South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest has celebrated the freedom Black Americans, building the largest Juneteenth celebration in the Carolinas: a day of storytelling, live performances, vendors, and a community gathered in purpose.
Pickens, SC | June 20 | $5
A full day of live Americana and folk music, Appalachian heritage, artisan demonstrations, food vendors, and family-friendly fun at Hagood Mill Historic Site!
July 2026
Spotlights from our NEW issue! π
our editors talk creative decisions that excited them in VI.II
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
π° Issue VI.II is out, and we are so proud to share it with you!
To help guide you through the issue, our editors are here to highlight some pieces they’re particularly excited about. Below, you will find them spotlighting pieces from each medium: art, poetry, stories, music, and dance.
Lilliana Cameron, Art Editor: on The Paradox by Harper Slusher
The piece that excited me the most to publish in this issue was "The Paradox" by Harper Slusher. It is an ominously beautiful photograph that stops me in my tracks every time I see it. There is a quiet contemplation to it that really draws me in and makes me question what exactly I am looking at. It feels both familiar and slightly confusing at the same time, like I have seen it in a dream, or I have been there before.
I am really impressed with the ability that Harper has, in creating images that are so simple and bare but also hold so much emotion. It feels refreshing in a way, to view her work. With all the chaos in the world, and just in everyday life, it can be nice to just stop and reflect. This piece creates the space to do that.
Amanda Conover, Poetry Editor: on Jewelweed by Lauren Mills
I was really excited to publish “Jewelweed” by Lauren Mills. One interpretation of the poem is that it’s about control and taking back power and autonomy over something that is taking over or that has grown too comfortable existing where it doesn’t belong. Those themes can be wildly relatable to anyone, but I really admire how the jewelweed plants are used as that metaphor. It’s a very fresh, lively comparison that perfectly encapsulates so many themes so simply and beautifully.
The jewelweed having their own voice and speaking from their perspective is unique and not something I’ve seen in too many other poems lately. It breaks up the contemplative, meditative tones in the beginning of the piece and adds a new layer. The voice and tone, in general, are fantastic in this poem, but that specific change of perspective felt very original and creative!
Unique descriptions and ways of seeing the world are something I often incorporate in my own poems, and are aspects that are working really well in “Jewelweed.” From August being described as a “hound’s mouth month” to the phrase “tangle and strangle” in reference to the weeds, the distinct depictions and details are so strong and really resonate with the type of poetry I seek to create.
Jenna Duxbury, Stories Editor: on Unidentified by JH Lucas
I’m excited to publish all three of the stories included in VI.II! But, I’d like to highlight “Unidentified,” a creative nonfiction piece about two young boys growing up in the mid-1970s. I love how this piece explores the concept of identity through the eyes of an inquisitive child, and does so in a way that’s multi-dimensional and believable. As children, the ways that we use imagination to play games or to escape from reality are formative in shaping our personalities and sense of self, often into adulthood. This piece reminded me of the importance of imagination and its role in our everyday creative life.
Creative nonfiction is a powerful kind of storytelling that takes real artistry. Most of the pieces submitted to Carolina Muse are fictitious, but this piece stood out to me not just as nonfiction but as an exceptionally crafted example of a true story told well. It is nostalgic without being saccharine, like peering at a film negative that has just enough detail to remind us of the way things used to be.
Madison Foster, Editor in Chief: on “Three Preludes” by George Gershwin, covered by Solstice Reed Quintet
I was excited to publish “Three Preludes” by George Gershwin covered by Solstice Reed Quintet, a music piece (I acted as music editor for this issue). Classical pieces like this are beautiful in the way that instruments of different tones come together to build a beautiful piece that tells a story in parts. I also loved the representation within the group and could tell how well they knew one another and their respective instruments. Their passion for the craft shone through as they played.
These musicians are bringing joy and representation to communities that need it. They said it best in their mission statement:
The Solstice Reed Quintet is committed to exploring and showcasing unique and diverse repertoire for reed quintet, from both established composers and emerging voices. We strive to present music that challenges and inspires, offering fresh perspectives on the possibilities of this distinct ensemble. Our performances are designed to be vibrant and engaging - creating memorable experiences for audiences of all backgrounds.
We are passionate about fostering a deep connection with our community, using music as a bridge to bring people together. Education is a core part of our mission; we believe in the power of music to inspire the next generation and are dedicated to sharing our knowledge through outreach programs, workshops, and educational performances. By giving back and engaging directly with schools, students, and under-served communities, we aim to make the arts more accessible and meaningful. Through our artistry, education, and service, we strive to enrich the cultural landscape and spark a lifelong love of music in all who hear us.
Classical work is under-represented in Carolina Muse’s published repertoire overall. And, music, at least in the way we publish it (aka, not feature stories), is under-represented in arts publications.
Rush Johnston, Dance Editor: on Dysrhythmia (an excerpt)
I loved "Dysrhythmia (an excerpt)" and how rich in different influences and ideas it was, and that it still felt direct and cohesive while playing with various textures and ways of using the space. I appreciated the close attention to rhythm, space shaping, and specific movement vocabulary that made this piece stand out so much.
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Carolina Arts Events in July
North Carolina
Raleigh, NC | July 10 | Free
Oak City Music Collective invites you to Salsa at the Park for a free community dance lesson!
Everybody Has a Story: The Art of Memoir
Asheville, NC | July 14, 21, 28 | Free
Join them for an open memoir workshop series designed to help you explore and write about your own lived experiences.
Winston-Salem, NC | July 16-18 | $25
The contemporary ballet program explores themes of resilience, reflection and joy through a blend of world premiere work and celebrated repertory.
Winston-Salem, NC | July 17 | Free
Shop used books at discounted prices and enjoy food & drinks from local food trucks!
International Black Theater Festival
Winston-Salem, NC | July 27-Aug 1 | ~$45 per show
From powerful dramas and bold new works to show-stopping musicals, comedy, and cabaret.
South Carolina
Columbia, SC | July 16 | Free
Join them every first and third Thursday for an evening of jazz by some of the Midlands’ finest. It is a veritable sound bath in an intimate setting.
Book Talk + Signing with India Hill Brown
Columbia, SC | July 7 | Free
Join them for a book talk and signing with local SC author India Hill Brown for her new book, Girl From the Ashes.
Pony Bead Flower Keychain Craft
Darlington, SC | July 11 | Free
Participants will make colorful pony bead flower keychains to take home!
Junk Journaling: Art of Living Slowly
Spartanburg, SC | July 18 | Free
Traditionally, a junk journal is handmade using repurposed second-hand materials: greeting cards, old book pages, scraps of paper, etc... Today, most journalers use their preferred pre-bound journal and let creativity flow. Join us Hub City Press and junk journal with fellow creatives.
Spartanburg, SC | July 27 | $25
Join a fun, relaxed ballet class designed for all levels, no experience (or tights) required. Start with a light warm-up and learn the basics of ballet in a supportive, judgment-free environment, then stick around to enjoy a well-earned beer with your fellow dancers.
August 2026
Submit to Issue VI.II π
Welcoming our music editor, and what sort of work our editors are looking for!
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
π¨ We’re ready to get working on issue IV.III
And we can’t do it without you! The submission deadline for Issue IV.III is August 15th. For guidance with your submission, head to our submission page and scroll down for a tutorial on navigating our Duosuma submissions page.
Now is the time to make your last minute tweaks! Change the “a” to a “the” in that one piece! Wait… maybe put it back? No, hang on, I liked “the” more. Well, now that I see the “the” again, I don’t know if it—you know the drill! Go do that! Just get the… a… piece to us before August 15th (:
π§ We have a new music editor on the team!
Let’s give a big warm welcome to Owen Marcellino, our new music editor! Now, I can’t actually hear if you’re giving him a big warm welcome, so I just have to trust that you’re doing it. Honor system style. Without further adieu, here’s a little bit about Owen!
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Hi, my name is Owen Marcellino, and I am the new music editor for Carolina Muse. Originally from Raleigh, NC, I recently graduated from Appalachian State University with a bachelor's degree in music industry studies. While attending Appalachian, I studied bassoon and participated in various classical ensembles, including our Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra. In addition to these, I participated in the marching band for two years, playing marimba and alto saxophone, participated in the Steely Pan Steel Band, and many chamber ensembles. In addition to my music education, I love to write songs on my guitar. I tend to write acoustic and folk-style singer-songwriter music, but have hopes to produce these records someday. Having played piano since a young age, I have an immense respect for classical styles of music, including jazz and opera, but also the contemporary genres I find myself listening to and creating with. If you are interested in hearing more of my music opinions or listening to any of my music, my personal Instagram is @owenlee.mp3.
Woah… this guy knows his stuff. You should like… totally submit your music pieces to Carolina Muse by August 15th so he can check them out! We’re so happy to have Owen on the team, and we’re super excited for the expertise he’s going to bring to the music editor role!
π What are the editors looking for?
Gather ‘round, creatives. I’ve got some insider intel for you. We asked our editorial team what recently draws them to a piece and holds their fascination, in order to give you some guidance during your submission process! Here’s what they had for you:
Owen Marcellino, Music Editor
I am looking for music that expands the local music scenes of the Carolinas by pushing cultural, social, and musical boundaries. This applies to every genre of music, anywhere from grunge-rock to solo improvisational jazz. Music is at its best when it is unique & innovative in its lyrical context, harmonic textures, and performance practice. Music that works to shift the industry, in whatever direction, is worth listening to.
Lilliana Cameron, Art Editor
Typically, I look for visual art that stops me in my tracks. Not necessarily because they are so spectacular or showstopping, but because they draw me in and make me want more. This can come from a number of things, such as the boldness of color, the uniqueness of style, or the softness of emotion. I also love the variety of visual art that Carolina Muse represents in each issue, from photography to pottery to painting to printmaking to fabric sculptures and so much more. So, while I am a painter myself and appreciate the skill in these submissions, I also am really drawn to variety &and originality. There are a few submissions already this round that are really exciting, but I can’t wait to see more!
Rush Johnston, Dance Editor
For dance submissions, I am looking for originality &and experimentation along with exceptional creativity. I love to see play with rhythm, setting, movement vocabulary, props, and different themes that have particularly held your interest & investigation. We accept stage works, dance films, and everything in between and a wide variety of dance styles so don’t be afraid to show us your best and most creative work!
Amanda Conover, Poetry Editor
The first thing I look for in a submission is that poems are polished, free of any obvious grammar or spelling errors, and concise. In poetry, every stanza, line, and word should be important—nothing should run on or feel unnecessary for the core ideas to come through. For those newer to submitting their work, I highly recommend finding a workshop or critique group and having others give feedback on pieces before submitting them. In terms of current trends and what I’m interested in right now, anything that is fresh, original, and unique is always a good start. I love seeing concrete poems, collage poems, blackout poems, and any traditional forms with a twist! Poems that are bold and experiment with form or other techniques are interesting to me.
Jenna Kay Duxbury, Stories Editor
I’ve recently been captivated by old stories told in new ways. There is power in providing an unconsidered perspective, whether that’s making us feel empathy for the villain or skillfully guiding our gaze into a new posture of understanding. We may look at a painting a hundred times but never discover its meaning without the greater context of the artist’s life, the source of their inspiration, or the historical and cultural events that occurred around their work. I think stories can be the same way, particularly the old ones that we think we already know. I’m interested in work that guides us to feel empathy for others, particularly in ways we may not expect.
There you have it! Submission page, deadline, Duosuma tutorial, and what the editors are looking for. What more could your little creative heart want? Go forth and submit, Carolina Musers!
Whoops... π€
Did you miss the July newsletter? It missed you too! The spam filtering gods did not smile down on us last month. For the July newsletter, our editors highlighted the pieces they were particularly excited about in our newest issue, Issue VI.II! Check your junk or spam mail if you're interested in engaging with our recent issue in a guided way (:
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Carolina Arts Events in August
North Carolina
Carrboro, NC | August 1 | Free
“Oops! All Clowns Shakespeare” is an original show written using text from all your favorite Shakespeare plays!
The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel
Asheville, NC | August 7-29 | Free
This swashbuckling tale of love, loyalty, and bravery promises laughter, intrigue, and plenty of adventure for all.
Durham, NC | August 8 | Free
This free family friendly event brings the community together for live music, authentic jerk cuisine, and flavors from across the Caribbean and around the world.
Durham, NC | August 13 | $35
You will leave the party with your own beautiful work of art, finished with a shadow box frame, and incredible memories.
Raleigh, NC | August 14 | Free
Oak City Music Collective invites you to Salsa at the Park for a free community dance lesson!
Winston-Salem, NC | August 14, 28 | Free
Join Downtown Winston Salem for their Downtown Summer Music Series!
Winston-Salem, NC | August 15 | Free
The festival hosts various craft, non-profit, and commercial vendors, as well as food for you to munch on while you shop!
South Carolina
Artists for Africa Performance
Columbia, SC | August 7 | $5-$75
Artists from Africa will perform along with guest artists, Columbia Repertory Dance Company, Unbound Dance, and Soda City Brass Band, and other local dancers, actors, and musicians.
Self-Publishing Workshop with Hub City Press
Online Event | August 11 | $25
Join Hub City Press publisher Meg Reid and associate publisher Kate McMullen for their Self-Publishing Workshop! They'll go over the ins and outs of self-publishing, share tips from the publishing industry, and help you figure out your next step, whether you're just starting out or ready to launch.
Columbia, SC | August 18 | Free
Enjoy a discussion with fellow readers while you sip on coffee or wine in our reading room. This book club is free and open to the public.
Greenville, SC | August 22 | Free
The Bon Dance Festival includes Bon Odori, which is performed in colorful kimono, yukata, and happi coats. The Bon Dance Festival represents an energetic mix of traditional festival activities, some local vendors, and foods.
Poetry Reading with Kay E. Bancraft + Friends
Columbia, SC | August 28 | Free
Join them for a poetry reading with Kay E. Bancroft for their new book, Bloodroom. Kay will also be joined by other local poets!
Book Truck Rodeo with Hub City Bookshop
Spartanburg, SC | August 29 | Free to attend
They're bringing together book trucks & pop-up sellers for an afternoon of browsing, shopping small, and connecting with local literary folks.
September 2026
Celebrating SIX Years of CM!
Let's dig into the archives of Carolina Muse, plus the local library and the internet.
by newsletter writer Kaylin Hechtle
π Into the Archives: Carolina Muse unselected cover options!
Have you ever wondered about the Carolina Muse covers that were considered before the issues are published? These days, Lilliana Cameron, our art editor, designs our covers using art from within the issue. But, did you know we used to host a cover art contest to source our art for each cover? π
Here are some cover options from years past that were not selected for final publication. Our editor-in-chief, Madison, shares more behind-the-scenes info about each:
Issue I.IV
This is an original from our very first volume! Designed by our OG graphic designer, Steph Brendel, we knew we wanted to use the figure (drawn by Amanda Bingaman) in the foreground. The background pieces in both were from the cover art contest we used to run.
Ultimately, we felt the final cover looked more cohesive. Although, today I might've picked this version because now I like the contrast... π€
Issue IV.II
I did love this cover option. We ended up going with another striking figure piece by the same artist (Isabelle Klauder) as the foreground, and we used one of my favorite abstract pieces for the background. I love how the unpublished option swaps the background piece's original fixture (a pearl) for the figure.
Issue IV.III
If the content of this issue had been a bit lighter, we might've gone with this unpublished option. However, this was our October issue the year of Hurricane Helene, and our content aligned with that, so we went with the more somber option. The same artist, Jo Tomsick, created both bird pieces, and those are some of my favorite art pieces we've published (you'll find one on our bookmarks!).
Issue VI.II
This is our most recent issue! I think the quality (i.e. sharpness of the image) of the one we selected is higher, and I love the contrast of green leaves and black & white petals surrounding the portrait's eyes. Again, this cover felt like it better reflected the feel of the overall content inside of the issue.
π° Exploring Local History At My Local Library
A few weeks ago, I visited the local history room at the New Hanover Library downtown to look at a specific, local archived work. This room contains a ton of documentation, including regional census information, historical maps, and journals of people from the Cape Fear. But, I wasn’t here for any of that, at least not this time. (Yes, I could sit in a library for an hour reading old census files. Sue me!) This time, I had called the special collections librarian ahead of time and asked her to pull the document for me. When I got there, instead of one item, she gestured toward a small pile of professionally bound archival documents. “I pulled some extra stuff too,” she said, and told me I could sit wherever I liked.
At the top of the pile was the document I was here for. It was the MCC St. Judes Community Zine; something I stumbled across on the library’s online catalogue. At the time, I recognized the name “MCC St. Judes.” because it’s Wilmington’s local MCC, a branch of churches that began in 1968 Los Angeles created specifically to accept LGBTQ+ people.
The community zine held personal musings, essays, and updates about local current events, upcoming movie screenings, and just general community get-togethers, all mostly from queer perspectives. One essay was mulling the difficulties of where to host their UNCW LGBT support group. If it’s on campus, people are scared to come and out themselves at their school. If it's anywhere else, it’s hard to get people off campus. It was so interesting to get a glimpse of what hurdles queer organizers were facing over twenty years ago in the city where I live.
North Carolina Museum of Art Digital Collection
The NCMA is home to more than 4,000 works of art and material culture, classified into eight major collections: African; American; Ancient American; Ancient Greek, Italian, and Roman; Ancient Egyptian; European; Judaic; and 20th and 21st Century. 99% of the collection is accessible in the online database!
North Carolina Digital Collections
The digital collections of the State Archives of North Carolina and the Library of North Carolina archive cultural, political, and historical art, photography, and literature through times like the Civil War and the Civil Rights movement.
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South Carolina Digital Library
The South Carolina Digital Library (SCDL) is a collaborative effort among South Carolina’s academic institutions, libraries, archives, museums, and other cultural heritage institutions to create, maintain, and promote sustainable, freely accessible, digital collections.
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For the last thirty years, the Avery Research Center (located in Charleston, SC) has collected art and archival materials that document the history, traditions, and legacies of African Americans and their influence on American society and culture, as well as their place within the American narrative.
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Invisible Histories provides educational resources and professional development for 13 Southern states. These include: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia. Invisible Histories is actively collecting archival materials in the following six states: Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina. As a response to increasing anti-LGBTQ and anti-DEI policies nationwide, Invisible Histories has recently established a physical location in Charlotte, NC!
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Carolina Arts Events in September
North Carolina
Boomtown Arts & Heritage FestAVL
Asheville, NC | September 4-6 | Free
Attendees can look forward to a dynamic lineup of main stage performances, interactive workshops, heritage exhibits, and trail tours!
Charlotte, NC | September 5 | Free
An unforgettable day of music, dance, food, family fun, art & community.
Emerge Gallery & Art Center Series
Greenville, NC | September 11 | Free
This series celebrates the rich heritage of African American musicians with ties to Eastern North Carolina, with a special monthly guest artist.
Raleigh, NC | September 11-13 | Varies by event
JLF North Carolina 2026 will feature two days of thought-provoking conversations, compelling performances, and enlightening cultural experiences, making it an essential chapter of the JLF USA series.
Southern Resonance Roots Festival
Charlotte, NC | September 13 | Free & Paid Times
This year’s celebration of American Blues and Roots music features six incredible bands from across the Carolinas in an immersive, two-part festival experience.
Mooresville, NC | September 19 | Free to attend
βBands, Brews & BBQ brings together the best of food, fun, and community spirit.
Bookmarks Festival of Books & Authors
Winston-Salem, NC | September 25-27 | Varies by event
For more than two decades, this festival has connected acclaimed writers and readers in downtown Winston-Salem each year, making it a nationally recognized cultural cornerstone and the largest literary festival in the Carolinas.
South Carolina
Charleston, SC | September 12 | Varies by tier
With combined indie and traditional authors and amazing vendors, their goal is to host an amazing event for readers to meet their favorite romance authors of all subgenres.
Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival
Augusta, SC | September 18-20 | Free to attend
Music takes center stage throughout the weekend with five stages filled with exceptional local, regional, national, and international talent spanning cultural music, jazz, soul, rock, country, dance, spoken word, theatrical performances, family entertainment, and more.
Charleston, SC | September 26 | Free to attend
With MELT, they aim to create an event to highlight what Public Art embodies at it’s core: people, story, place, and vision.
Spartanburg, SC | September 27 | Free
Porchfest's purpose is to highlight Spartanburg’s oldest neighborhood, the last remaining collection of homes that have retained their architectural integrity from the early 20th century. Spotlighting Spartanburg’s rich history and featuring eclectic local music, food, and beverage makes for an afternoon filled with reasons to love Spartanburg!
Columbia, SC | September 27 | Free to attend
Cola Cafe Fest is Columbia's first ever café festival, celebrating the city's vibrant café culture with coffee, tea, pastries, desserts, specialty drinks, local vendors and interactive experiences.
Columbia, SC | September 29 | $25
Performers from the South Carolina Philharmonic will join Historic Columbia for an enchanting outdoor concert in the gardens at the Hampton-Preston Mansion. This program will showcase Oktoberfest-inspired musical selections, highlighting the spirited melodies and musical traditions of Germany and Central Europe.