There was big news announced this week that named Knoxville No. 4! We’re the 4th most artsy community in the country, according to a USA TODAY Reader’s Poll. We edged out some big cities that are normally considered pretty artsy themselves. There is a lot going on in this town – from First Friday Art Walks to Big Ears, Dogwood Arts Festival to the Art in Public Places. We have some legitimate cred.
The great thing is that it’s not just the professional artists leading the charge. Here at the library, we host a lot of arts and crafts programs, and they are very popular. Beading or making elderberry syrup may not be up there with Picasso, but it’s part of a mindset that values creativity.
Whether it’s rock painting or crocheting, we have programs that warm the heart and keep the creative juices flowing for people of all ages. It’s worth checking out all the crafts programs we have coming up. We even have a bunch of great printable crafts to do at home.
One of the biggest programs we have coming up in July is the “Feel the Beat Art Show.” Kids and teens are invited to show off their music-themed drawings, paintings or collages this summer at these participating libraries: Lawson McGhee, Bearden, Carter, Cedar Bluff, Farragut, Fountain City, Halls, Howard Pinkston, Karns, Sequoyah and South Knoxville.
Things to know:
- Art must be submitted on 9-inch x12-inch tag board provided by the library.
- Visit your location to register and pick up your board by July 8
- Drop off art between July 10-12
- Art will be on display from July 15-28
- Pick up your art piece between July 29-Aug 12
Happy creating!
Note: Artwork will be on public display and may be shared on library social media platforms. (Artist’s first name and age group may be shared.) The library is not responsible for damage to or theft of items, and reserves the right to NOT display art deemed inappropriate.
Mary Pom Claiborne is assistant director for marketing, communications and development for Knox County Public Library