Finding laughs with West Virginia’s top artists and craftsmen
By Tom Adkinson
July 2, 2021

(Editor’s note: This is one in a series of travel stories spotlighting destinations and activities to consider in a time of coronavirus and to inspire safe outings elsewhere.)

Dinosaur showdown; image by Tom Adkinson

BECKLEY, West Virginia – Bits of post-lockdown freedom can generate some loosened inhibitions, such as when this visitor to a famous arts and crafts location in West Virginia decided she needed to have a showdown with an exquisitely sculpted Tyrannosaurus Rex. The competition was a draw.

The location was Tamarack, whose full name is Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia. It lives up to that claim by showcasing more than 32,000 products from approximately 1,200 juried artists, artisans, food producers and musicians. These diverse makers come from every corner of West Virginia, and some are in residence for you to observe as they create more art.

Tamarack; image by Tom Adkinson

Tamarack, located at Exit 45 on I-77 near Beckley, is a place where you can furnish your home, decorate your office and fill your picnic basket at the same time.