When there is a storm of creative energy in Haywood County — a swirl of painters, musicians, weavers, woodworkers and more — Kay Miller is at the center of it. Since 2004, she's been the executive director of the Haywood County Arts Council, meaning she's spent the better part of a decade encouraging people to make, enjoy and support art.

In her words, "I like to see people create beauty."

And that's not going to change, even though her job title soon will. After eight and a half years heading the council, Miller is stepping down this Friday. As the eighth executive director in the organization's 35 years, she's stayed longer than many in a position that can often be demanding and stressful, sometimes with long hours and many moving parts. It's been a huge responsibility, and Miller talks ...