Artists Thrive in the City of Arts and Innovation

Since the founding of Salem in 1776, Winston-Salem has been a hub of fine art, crafts, and innovation. Peter Oliver, an enslaved man, worked to gain his freedom here in 1800, and became a renowned potter. Cyrus Briggs invented one of the first successful cigarette vending machines in 1808. Pop-music legends Ben Folds and Mitch Easter hail from this area, and Tony and Emmy-award-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell graduated from UNC School of the Arts. Maya Angelou taught at Wake Forest University. Every day, talented artists and collaborators are joining their ranks. As they make their marks, they prove Winston-Salem worthy of its moniker – City of Arts and Innovation. Here are five artists to know.