On Thursday, November 12, Ambleside Gallery will celebrate its newest chapter with a grand opening in Asheville’s historic Biltmore Village, welcoming the public from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Founded in Manchester, England, in 1982 by Jackson Mayshark, Ambleside Gallery has evolved from a network of British artists and private collectors into an established fine art gallery representing regional, national, and international artists.

Its arrival in Asheville came unexpectedly. After participating in a pop-up exhibition in Biltmore Village, Mayshark was invited by the building’s owner to establish a permanent gallery in the space.

“I didn’t choose Biltmore Village. In a way, Biltmore Village chose me,” Mayshark reflects. 

The gallery takes its name from the picturesque English town of Ambleside in the Lake District, a region known for its historic architecture, natural beauty, and connections to figures such as William Wordsworth and John Ruskin. When Mayshark returned to the United States in 1994, he brought the name with him, along with the artistic relationships and philosophy that had shaped his business.

After establishing galleries in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, and Greensboro, North Carolina, Mayshark now brings that legacy to Asheville.

Throughout its history, Ambleside has remained committed to artistic excellence rather than any particular style or movement. Its collection encompasses painting, watercolor, sculpture, ceramics, and photography with an emphasis on originality, craftsmanship, and individual expression.

Among the gallery’s notable artistic relationships is acclaimed Chinese watercolorist Guan Weixing, whom Mayshark invited to exhibit in Greensboro. The exhibition marked a significant chapter in Ambleside’s history and helped introduce the artist’s work to American audiences.

The new Asheville location also features the work of established regional artists, alongside artists from England, France, and across the United States.

A dedicated gallery room showcases the extraordinary ceramic sculptures of brothers Brad and Bryan Caviness. Their intricate architectural worlds emerged from an unexpected creative discovery after a kiln accident destroyed months of pottery. Rather than discard the broken vessels, the brothers transformed them into the foundation of a distinctive artistic practice.

Beyond its collection, Mayshark envisions Ambleside as a place where visitors can encounter beauty, discover new perspectives, and connect with one another through art.

The grand opening will feature refreshments, light music, and opportunities to meet participating artists. The event is free and open to the public, with no RSVP required.

Grand Opening Details

Event: Ambleside Gallery Grand Opening
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2026
Time: 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Location: 30 All Souls Crescent, Asheville, NC 28803
Admission: Free and open to the public
RSVP: Not required
Website: www.amblesidegallery.com

Source: Ambleside Gallery.