2018 Asheville Arts Market Study: Understanding the Demand for Affordable Creative Space

The Asheville Area Arts Market Study, conducted in 2018 by Artspace in partnership with the Asheville Area Arts Council (now ArtsAVL), assessed regional demand for affordable spaces for artists to live, work, and create. This study was the first of its kind for the region and aimed to inform long-term planning for a dedicated multi-use arts facility.

Key findings from the survey of over 1,200 respondents across Western North Carolina include:

• 234 artists expressed interest in relocating to a new, shared artist space in the Asheville area
• Strong demand for affordable private studio space, followed by shared creative workspaces, rehearsal areas, and exhibition venues
• Artists overwhelmingly indicated interest in multi-use facilities that could combine housing, studios, and public gathering spaces
• Key needs identified included affordability, location within cultural districts, and access to community amenities and transit

The study found that housing cost burdens and limited space availability were major barriers for local creatives. These challenges directly affect the region’s cultural vibrancy, artistic retention, and equitable access to the creative economy.

The results validated the need for strategic investment in affordable, community-based arts infrastructure and have served as a cornerstone for subsequent planning and advocacy efforts in Buncombe County and beyond.

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