One of the great things about Gatlinburg is the strong presence of art and music all year long. The arts are an important way not only to bring in visitors, but also to preserve the rich history of the area. Since the 1940s, the Smoky Mountains have been home to the largest concentration of artisans in the United States. And with each festival – be it the summer Fine Arts Festival, the fall Craftsmen’s Fair or holiday craft shows – comes a greater appreciation for, and stronger following of, the Smoky Mountain arts movement.
On Labor Day weekend, the 8th Annual Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival will be offering a blend of art, music and culture to guests and locals of Gatlinburg. Set at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts), this year’s event will feature some of the best and most creative artists from across the country.
From August 31st through September 2nd, 2012, you can expect to enjoy:
- Free children’s activities
- Great local music
- Amazing scenery, complements of the Great Smoky Mountains
- Fine art, including ceramics, glass and more
- Great competition
Exhibitors at this event will be judged in their artistic categories (16 categories in all) by a jury. There will be woodworking, glass works, ceramics and watercolor with $10,000 in prizes and vouchers up for grabs! Guests can also meet and mingle with the artists at the “Night with the Artist Party.”
While admission is free to all, donations are accepted as the Fine Arts Festival is one of the major fundraisers for the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, the Sevier County Arts Council and the Gatlinburg Boys & Girls Club art program.