Collecting art is the theme of a large exhibit opening Friday, July 19 at the Upstairs Artspace and continuing through Aug. 31. “Seeing Is Believing: The Collection of Ray Griffin and Thom Robinson” is a private collection of contemporary art built by two Asheville art lovers with thoughtful planning and a modest budget. A second exhibit, “Crossing the Line,” brings back Polk County artists Bonnie Bardos and Charlotte Fowler who make colorful “found object” art that dares to be different.

Bardos and Fowler are inveterate collectors, too of other people’s trash to use in their art. Fowler likes collecting animal bones, coins and old wood. Bardos favors vintage jewelry, silver flatware and ceramic figures.

An opening reception is Saturday, July 20, 5 – 8 p.m. preceded at 4 p.m. by an informal conversation with Bardos and Fowler.