Sometimes when I set out to shoot for the channel, I have specific titles, preliminary scripts, and deep research ready to go. But the best stories are often the ones that find you when your original plans fall through.
This recent trip to Asheville, North Carolina, was exactly that kind of journey. Initially, I intended to shoot three distinct segments: Thomas Wolfe’s history, downtown Asheville, and the region’s historic crafts.
While the Thomas Wolfe footage is in the queue (with a completely unexpected twist you’ll see down the road), downtown Asheville had other plans for us. Between the endless cycle of driving and parking, and finding several intended stops closed, I needed to get out of the city center.
Fortunately, I had a backup note to visit a unique studio in nearby Weaverville. I initially thought it was just a local museum. What we found instead was a one-of-a-kind school and studio that draws students from as far away as Finland to learn the intricate arts of chair caning and weaving.
That morning detour completely shifted our trajectory. We met incredibly skilled artists who not only welcomed us into their spaces but spoke with immense passion about preserving and evolving their craft—giving us a rare look into the meticulous worlds of traditional caning, weaving, and glassblowing.
The Deerberry Files often focuses on uncovering hidden history, industrial mysteries, and the occasional paranormal investigation. This video is a little different. It is a story about continuing a profound crafts legacy while making it new—set against the backdrop of a region that was devastated by natural forces nearly two years ago, but continues to demonstrate an unbreakable spirit to rebuild.
Enjoyed the clip? Click here to watch directly on YouTube and explore the rest of The Deerberry Files channel!