The Frescoes of Ashe County Remote Ashe County, in the far northwest corner of North Carolina's mountains, seems an unlikely place for a collection of religious frescoes. But, perhaps, it is the very best place. The serene, natural beauty of this unspoiled mountain county is appropriate for these works of remarkable talent that evoke such divine inspiration. Noted American artist Ben Long, born in Statesville, has found his niche as an artist who keeps alive the ancient art of the fresco.
Fresco painting is a tenuous art based on the immediate application of pigment to wet plaster.
So quickly does the bonding of the two take place that great skill and meticulous planning must be maintained in order to achieve the beautiful result. The marvelous beauty of the work and the powerful subjects have drawn thousands of visitors from all over the country to witness firsthand the evocative frescoes that decorate the walls of these tiny churches. Both churches date to early in this century, and each seats a congregation no larger than 100. The white frame buildings, trimmed in scrollwork, are described as Carpenter Gothic in style. Neatly trimmed lawns and carefully tended gardens surround these tiny islands of worship.