Trailborn Spotlights Artists

Written By: Marlene Osteen | Issue: Winter 2025

The art of Tarah Singh

Trailborn Highlands arrived on the Plateau with a mission – yes, to coddle their guests in comfort, but at least as importantly to introduce them to the singular pleasures of the Highlands environment.

From casting a line in fish-studded rivers, to marveling at the wonders of our waterfalls, scaling rugged mountain cliffs or spotting migrating birds from scenic overlooks, Trailborn has always sought to connect its visitors with the beauty and wonder of this remarkable region. Now, the boutique hotel is adding another layer to its experiential offerings, a new Artist in Residence program launching with this New Year.

“At Trailborn, we strive to offer our guests an immersive experience that highlights the best of every destination,” says Carly Lincenberg, Director of Experience for Trailborn.

This initiative, inspired by the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene, aims to support artists whose homes and studios were damaged or lost. The program will provide selected artists across disciplines with a two-week residency at Trailborn Highlands, offering both a sanctuary for creativity and a chance to share their talents with the community.

Each artist will lead classes for guests and locals from Wednesday to Sunday, culminating in bi-weekly pop-up art shows where their works can be showcased and purchased.

Trailborn’s first Artist-in-Residence, Tarah Singh, will hold classes in acrylic painting, chalk pastels, blind contour drawing, and mixed media January 2 through 16.

Tarah is a Guyanese American Artist who was raised in Western North Carolina. She is a visionary creative working in a variety of mediums to communicate with the world around her.

“Our goal is to foster a sense of connection within the local arts community while giving guests an unforgettable creative experience,” says Jen LaRue, Trailborn Highlands General Manager.

The first pop-up art show is set for debut in January, featuring not only the artist’s work but also live music from local musicians. These art shows, hosted every Thursday, promise to be lively celebrations of creativity, complete with a chance to meet the artists and connect over shared appreciation for their craft.

“We want to offer more than just a place to stay,” LaRue adds. “We want Trailborn Highlands to feel like a gathering place for the community—a space where people can come together to celebrate art, music, and the spirit of Highlands.”

Apply at trailborn.com/highlands/artists-residence-program to be one of the program’s featured artists, and make sure to visit trailborn.com/highlands/experiences to find the latest information on upcoming experiences and events.