Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment isn’t your typical museum. Sure, it’s a sprawling hub brimming with art studios, galleries, and performance spaces. But step beyond the surface and you’ll discover a treasure trove of hidden stories, unexpected finds, and a vibrant community unlike any other.

Kimberly Casey, a transplant from Massachusetts who fell in love with Lowe Mill on her first visit, knows this better than anyone. Even after years of exploring the venue, she’s constantly surprised by something new. Here, she shares five fascinating facts about Lowe Mill that will make you want to grab your walking shoes and see it for yourself.

1. The Open Door Policy: Where Browsing Becomes Connection

Forget the stuffy museum silence. At Lowe Mill, open studio doors are an invitation to explore and connect. Don’t be shy! Walk in, meet the artist, and chat about their work. Hearing the inspiration and technique behind each piece adds a whole new layer of appreciation. Plus, you might discover a hidden passion for pottery or jewelry making – just ask about classes!

2. A Historic Walk Through Time: Trains, Tracks, and Beyond

Those expansive studios lining the south side? They’re called Railroad Rooms for a reason. Back in the early 1900s, when Lowe Mill was a bustling textile factory, a train chugged right behind them, picking up cotton from the loading dock. Traces of this rich history linger throughout the building. Look up and admire the original fans, bask in the natural light streaming through the 14-foot windows, or take a ride on the charming, staff-operated elevator – all remnants of a bygone era.

Vertical House Records – Studio # RR3B

3. Where Creativity Meets Sustainability: Repurposing with a Purpose

At Lowe Mill, creative minds don’t stop at artistic expression. Here, sustainability is an art form too. Take the East Dock awning, for example. Its support structure? Repurposed rails from the very train tracks that once ran behind the Railroad Rooms. Even the crossties find new life as edging for the dock. So next time you’re enjoying a concert on the dock, take a moment to appreciate this clever blend of art and resourcefulness.

4. From Garden to Plate: Fresh Flavors Bloom at Lowe Mill

Lowe Mill isn’t just about visual art. It nourishes the soul in other ways too. Tucked away in the southeast corner is the Flying Monkey Community Garden, a vibrant haven run by volunteers and fueled by donations. During harvest months, a bounty of fresh veggies awaits on the second-floor Community Garden table. Here, patrons can take what they need and donate what they can. These homegrown treasures even find their way onto the menus of on-site culinary artists like Happy Tummy, Chef Will, Piper & Leaf, and Pizzelle’s Confections.

5. A Geocacher’s Paradise: Unearthing Hidden Treasures

Calling all geocaching enthusiasts! Lowe Mill holds a secret – several. Grab your GPS and embark on an adventure to discover hidden treasures scattered throughout the property. This high-tech treasure hunt is a fun way to explore lesser-known corners of Lowe Mill and uncover its hidden gems.

These are just a taste of the magic that awaits at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment. Each visit promises a fresh perspective, a new story to discover, and a connection to the vibrant artistic community that thrives within its walls. So, ditch the guidebook and embrace the unexpected. Explore with open eyes, meet the artists, and let Lowe Mill weave its unique spell on you.