ArtsFlash Biweekly Newsletter
ACA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Lisa Kurtz | Highland Pottery
photo credits: Robert Batey photography
Functional | Sculptural | Colorful
I have worked in clay for over 45 years. I have also taught clay (both throwing and hand building) at many art centers in Tennessee and Kentucky. I started “Highland Pottery”, after getting my master’s degree in Ceramics at the University of Louisville in Kentucky where I grew up. My grandfather, Nick Guarnaschelli, came to the US from Italy. He was a painter, sculptor, teacher and tailor. My love for texture stems from my Italian roots, so I often use scraps of fabric and lace salvaged from my grandfather’s shop to impress designs into the clay on both my functional pottery and my clay wall art. The textures and colors in water, sand, sea birds, shells, rocks, and marine creatures inform my work and my glazes. My goal is to infuse my work with the peaceful feelings that water worn rocks, landscape and waves give to me. I throw and hand build my pieces and often combine the two methods to emphasize contrast. My pottery has been exhibited and sold in galleries and shops across the U.S. and in both national and regional juried fine art shows. In 2015 I was juried to be a Master Artist for Tennessee Craft and the TN Arts Commission’s Master Artist Apprentice Program (MAAP). I was also awarded a Bailey Opportunity Grant from the Arts and Culture Alliance for my clay art and taught a community clay class at Arrowmont in 2024.
I’m currently working on a dinnerware commission and many pieces for my upcoming Fall shows. I recently had my Tea Set called “Matcha Mama” juried into the Best of Tennessee Craft: 2026 Biennial show which will be exhibited at the Art Museum of the University of Memphis from October 24-December 12. I also am very proud to be a co-founder and exhibitor of a local art show and sale in Knoxville called the Homberg Holiday Art Market which will be held this year on December 12 and 13 from noon til 5 both days in Bearden at 5410 Homberg Drive, 37919
“If you love it, keep doing it!”
Contribute to the Arts & Culture Alliance Member Spotlight Series!
We’re launching a spotlight series to feature the artists and arts organizations that make our creative community vibrant. Selected spotlights may appear on ACA social media, newsletters, website features, or other promotional materials. Please complete this form as thoroughly as possible.
ALLIANCE NEWS and REMINDERS
Recent Art Sales at the Emporium!
Susan Watson, Pretentious Glass, Hummingbird Cutting Board
(NEW) Ken McMahon, Masks in Moonlight #2
(NEW) Roberta Smashey, Overpacked For Paradise, Dance of hummingbirds, Fred and Wilma, Tropical hummingbird #8 and #9, Hum to Me, and The Collector
(NEW) Harry Kagan, Mickey Mice #15, Mikey Mice #19, and Micky Mice #68
What’s Next Knoxville Office Hours & Public Input Opportunities
Knoxville’s long-range planning process, What’s Next Knoxville, is continuing with community office hours and public input events. These sessions are an opportunity for artists, arts organizations, creative businesses, and supporters of the arts to advocate for the inclusion of arts and culture in Knoxville’s long-term vision.
Artists Roundtable at the Emporium
Remaining 2026 dates: November 18 (3rd Wednesday). Member Meeting (December 9, 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM). Roundtables are for ACA individual artists of any kind at any level to come together and share questions, challenges, and successes. Monthly roundtables are free for ACA members, but we ask that you please RSVP for future roundtables whenever possible. Questions: Casey Fox, Director of Impact and Development, at cf@knoxalliance.com.
Sell Your Artwork via our Website
We want to promote the sale of our individual members’ items to our loyal patrons, the general public, and your family & friends through our online shop at www.knoxalliance.store. To list up to three works, fill out the simple form at www.knoxalliance.com/members-shop.
LOCAL & REGIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Artist registration for the 19th Annual Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk is officially OPEN!
Open until spaces run out. Each spring, Downtown Knoxville transforms into a vibrant, open-air art gallery as more than 300 artists take to the pavement to bring their creativity to life. From students picking up chalk for the first time to established professional artists, Chalk Walk celebrates the next generation of creatives and the incredible talent that makes our region’s arts community so special. More than just a day of sidewalk art, Chalk Walk creates a unique opportunity for artists of all ages and experience levels to share their work, connect with fellow creatives, and experience the excitement of creating alongside thousands of cheering spectators. With more than 20,000 visitors attending each year, it’s an opportunity to showcase your talent in front of the entire community!
Exhibit Your Artwork at Printshop Beer
Printshop Beer is looking to build out their art calendar through the end of 2026 and into 2027. If you’re interested in showcasing your work as a featured artist, send some sample pieces and your availability to info@printshopbeer.com.
Exhibit Your Artwork at House of Stray Bar
We’re looking for local talent to bring color, character, and whimsy to our bar in the form of a rotating gallery wall. Got artwork that fits our vibe? Send us a message! We’d love to showcase your work, credit you, and share your direct payment info so guests can purchase pieces straight from you.
Perform at the Tennessee Theatre: Mighty Musical Mondays!
Are you interested in performing at one of our free Mighty Musical Monday concerts? Please fill out the form below with information about you/your group and when you would be available to perform. Logan Dozier (ldozier@tennesseetheatre.com) will reach out to you with more information.
Call for Artists – Show Your Work at Cookeville Art Studio & Gallery
We are inviting all artists to apply to display their art in our gallery. This past year was a wonderful success, with four artists showing each month, bringing color, variety, interest, and enthusiasm to our space. We would love to include you in the coming year. The Cookeville Art Studio & Gallery (CAS) will handle your reception for you, leaving you free to invite your friends, family, and supporters for a fun and memorable evening or afternoon. Helga is also available to help you hang and arrange your art in our 1,100 square feet with cathedral ceilings work to make your wall and show as successful as possible.
Teach Art Demos/Workshops at Jerry’s Artarama
We are currently searching for artists to demonstrate techniques, personal art practices, or products in a workshop/class setting, or through one of our demos/art bars.
Apply to be a Vendor for Ijams Nature Center’s 13th Annual Holiday Marketplace
November 1 Deadline. Calling all artists and makers! Ijams Nature Center cordially invites you to apply for the opportunity to be a part of our 13th Annual Holiday Marketplace— an exciting festival showcasing local handcrafted wares and creations to a festive crowd. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, December 6, 2026, from 10 AM to 3 PM, both indoors and outdoors at the Ijams Visitor Center, located at 2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN. This event is held rain or shine both inside the Visitor Center and outside on the Visitor Center lawn and plaza. Outdoor booth spaces will be approximately 10 foot across by 10 foot deep while interior booth spaces will be approximately 8 foot across (front facing) by 6 foot deep. Canopy use is only permitted in the outdoor booth spaces.
Exhibit at The Tomato Head
November 13 Deadline. The Tomato Head is accepting submissions for its 2027 art exhibition schedule. Artists may email 5-10 images of wall-mountable work to: bethanndegrowsmith@icloud.com. Submissions are due by November 13th, 2026. Please include a brief bio, artist statement and sizes for each piece of work submitted, along with contact information.
Request for Qualifications: Founders Park Mosaic Project, Johnson City, TN
December 1 Deadline. The Johnson City Public Art Committee invites professional artists and art teams nationwide to submit qualifications for the commission of an in-ground mosaic to be installed at the eastern entrance to Founders Park in Downtown Johnson City, Tennessee. The design should reflect the ecological and social benefits generated by the formation of Founders Park, focusing on the themes of ecological restoration, downtown revitalization, and the interconnection of human and environmental health.
Theatre Knoxville Downtown Auditions for Boeing Boeing!
November 14 & 15 Auditions. This 1960s French farce adapted for the English-speaking stage features self-styled Parisian lothario Bernard, who has Italian, German and American fiancées, each a beautiful airline hostess with frequent “layovers.” He keeps “one up, one down, and one pending” – until unexpected schedule changes bring all three to Paris, and Bernard’s apartment, at the same time.
Storm Drain Stencil Project – Johnson City Public Art
November 11 Deadline. The Johnson City Public Art Committee is seeking proposals from artists or art teams for the commission of stencil designs to be installed on sidewalks by storm drains in Downtown Johnson City and surrounding neighborhoods. The stencil designs will be installed using the product called “Invisible Spray” manufactured by the Rainworks company which, when applied, creates a superhydrophobic coating that repels water. The designs made with the spray are practically invisible when the concrete surface is dry, but when they become wet, the artwork will appear.
Vendor Applications Now Open: 2027 Dogwood Arts Festival
December 1 deadline. Established in 1961, the Dogwood Arts Festival is one of the most celebrated cultural events in Knoxville, Tennessee — and was named the #3 Best Art Festival in the Country by USA Today in 2024! The festival features over 100 fine art vendors, an emerging makers tent, live music, entertainment, children’s activities, food & beverage vendors, and more. The event is held at World’s Fair Park — a public park in Downtown Knoxville that sits on the former fairgrounds of the 1982 World’s Fair. The festival is produced by Dogwood Arts, a (501c3) organization that promotes and celebrates the art, culture, and natural beauty of East Tennessee. We have a 71-year history of arts advocacy, environmental stewardship, and economic impact in East Tennessee. The Festival is one of 20+ year-round programs and events that help make Knoxville a great place to live, work, and play!
Design Contest for 2027 Oak Ridge Dogwood Juniors Championship Regatta
December 4 Deadline. To engage local artists and the broader community by selecting an original design that will serve as the official artwork for the 2027 Oak Ridge Dogwood Junior Championship—used on posters, shirts, digital media, banners, and promotional materials. Link to Contest Rules & Details. Link to Design Tips.
Request for Proposals: Phil Pindzola Biennial Sculpture Exhibition
December 4 Deadline. The Johnson City Public Art Committee is seeking pieces of leasable outdoor sculpture to be installed for two years (May 2027 – May 2029 cycle) in Founders Park and several other sites in Johnson City, Tennessee. The Phil Pindzola Biennial Sculpture Exhibition is intended to enhance downtown Johnson City and surrounding areas through the incorporation of public art. The exhibition is currently in its 7th rotation.
2026-2027 Arrowmont Workshop Proposals
December 31 Deadline. Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts typically schedules over 150 national workshops each year in the following media: wood, metals, glass, fibers and textiles, ceramics, and 2-D arts (drawing, painting, paper arts, printmaking, and bookmaking). The workshops instructors are comprised by returning teachers, recommendations, and research from the Programming department. However, we do occasionally review submissions for workshop proposals. The review is ongoing from January to September each year.
Arrowmont Pentaculum Program
December 31 Deadline. Pentaculum is an invitational, short-term residency at Arrowmont designed to provide artists with unfettered time and space to work alongside peers, friends and colleagues. Held annually in early January and mid-May, working artists in ceramics, fibers, metals, 2D, wood & sculpture, and writing spend a week at Arrowmont to work on independent projects. Pentaculum offers an intimate atmosphere for personal artistic growth and the opportunity to strengthen and build meaningful relationships within the art and craft field.
Colored Pencil Society of America: Fall 2026 Online Exhibit
December 31 Deadline. Artists may enter up to 3 entries, and the first needs to be 100% colored pencil. Other pieces may contain additional media, as long as the primary medium is colored pencil. This is a juried exhibit, and cash prizes will be awarded. The exhibit will be shown on our website and will be publicized via Facebook and Instagram. To see last year’s online exhibit click here. Full prospectus and link to enter can be found here. (I am also attaching a copy of the prospectus.) Please feel free to share, and if you have any questions, you may reach out to me at cpsa108memphis@gmail.com.
Alliance Satellite Gallery Call for Art – The HEART of Healing at UT Medical Center
January 3 Deadline. The HEART of Healing invites artists to explore the many ways the heart can be expressed through art. The heart may reveal love and compassion, nurture and caring, health and vitality, resilience and healing, or the strength found in our community, nature and human connection. This exhibit celebrates the heart not only as a physical organ or a shape, but as a source of emotional, creative and healing energy. It explores the ways art can nurture the spirit, encourage reflection, foster connection, inspire renewal, and bring comfort and joy. Through color, form, texture, movement, imagery, and personal expression, artists are invited to interpret what it means to heal, to care, and to connect.
Apply for Solo or Group Exhibitions at the Appalachian Center for Craft
January 10 Deadline. Appalachian Center for Craft is currently accepting proposals for solo and group exhibitors to take place in our galleries in 2027-2028. The ACC seeks to cultivate and showcase work that strengthens the role of craft in contemporary culture. We are seeking well-developed exhibition proposals that highlight mastery and exploration in craftsmanship, feature new works of art, and push the boundaries of craft. Exhibitors are encouraged to
experiment beyond their usual craft customs or practices and to present work which may not otherwise
be easily presented in conventional craft venues.
Tennessee Arts Commission Individual Artist Fellowship
January 15 Deadline. Fellowships provide those individuals who by education, experience, or natural talent engage in a particular art form or discipline, and live and work in Tennessee. To qualify, an artist must be financially compensated for his or her work, and this compensation must be a significant source of support for their livelihood. These are competitive awards. Eligibility qualifies an artist to apply but does not guarantee funding. Applications are scored by out-of-state adjudicators. The Commission awards approximately 1–3 fellowships each in Craft, Media, Visual Art, Dance, Music, Theatre, and Literary Arts, at $5,000 per recipient. No matching funds are required, and no specific project has to be carried out with the funds.
Geneva Galleries: Call for Artists
Deadline: Rolling until all exhibition slots are filled
Calling all local emerging and mid-career artists to submit work for a special series of exhibitions curated exclusively for First Friday opportunities in 2026. This will include vital career building information to help build your art portfolio and media presence. Examples of work and bio may be sent to W James Taylor: tip_taylor@hotmail.com
YNST Magazine: Open Call to Artists, Writers, and Poets for Issues 12 – 14
YNST is by and for Appalachian creatives, and always free to submit. Seeking art and poetry / short creative writing to round out the rest of this year’s creative content. YNST takes rolling submissions of work samples and story pitches between open calls. All submissions will be considered for both print and digital publication.
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
2027 INDEPENDENT PROJECT RESIDENCY at the Block House
November 20 Deadline. The Institute for Public Architecture (IPA) welcomes applications for the 2027 Independent Project Residency based at the historic Block House on Governors Island. The IPA Independent Project Residency program invites emerging and mid-career practitioners – whose work focuses on the public realm – to live and work during an eleven-week live-in Residency at the IPA Block House on Governors Island. The Residency seeks to create new interdisciplinary opportunities for collective thinking by providing communal space for architects, urbanists, landscape architects, designers, artists, and researchers to live, work, and develop independent projects within the community of the residency. Applicants will bring their own interests to the program and will have opportunities to engage with the public, interact with the context of Governors Island, and develop an activation to be displayed during a final culminating public event at the Block House.
Daisy Lane: Print & Book Artist Residency at Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
December 1 Deadline. Nestled into the forested natural beauty of this island community, Daisy Lane’s artist residency is significant and special, not just for BIMA or on Bainbridge, but for the artist book community. At any given time, Daisy Lane will host up to two resident artists: one local artist and one traveling artist. This allows the residency to support artists from the surrounding community while also bringing artists from outside the region to Bainbridge Island. Artists will be selected for a 2–4-week residency based on their conceptual creativity, technical knowledge, and familiarity with at least one of the studio offerings at Daisy Lane. Traditional and new technologies are encouraged. Resident artists will have access to the studio from 8 AM-10 PM daily.
Request for Qualifications: Gateway Public Art in Bloomington, IN
December 4 Deadline. The City of Bloomington requests qualifications from professional artists or artist teams to create a signature public artwork for their Bicentennial Gateway that celebrates the vibrancy, creativity and rich history that make Bloomington unique.
Call for Artists – Transform the Downtown Library’s Atrium Windows by City of Boca Raton
December 8 Deadline. The City of Boca Raton’s Public Art Boca program invites professional visual artists and artist-led teams nationwide to apply for a $55,000 commission on the two-story atrium windows of the Downtown Boca Raton Public Library. Qualifications are due December 8, 2026. The temporary artwork will be inspired by Living Anthologies, a ten-week memoir program for adults 55+ presented with the Boca Raton Museum of Art. Participants wrote personal stories inspired by works in the Museum’s collection, with select writings published in an anthology added to the Library’s collection. These stories will serve as the foundation for an artwork that translates residents’ reflections into a visual experience.
Spring Residency at Casa Hechale in Mexico City
December 30 Deadline. At Casa Hechale, artists live and work within a cultural centre dedicated to theatre, film and performance. Located in Santa María la Ribera, Mexico City, the Artist Residency Programme offers two- and four-week residencies for research, writing, rehearsal and experimentation. Creative work and daily life share a common setting. Residents can explore texts in the reading rooms, test performance ideas in the black box theatre, and develop visual and interdisciplinary work in the Front Gallery and workshop spaces. The patio provides a place to gather and continue conversations beyond rehearsals and scheduled activities. Space use and collaboration with actors are arranged with the team according to project needs and the centre’s programme.
Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grants
Rolling deadline. The Foundation welcomes applications from visual artists who are painters, sculptors, and artists who work on paper, including printmakers. Grants are intended for a one-year period of time. The Foundation will review expenditures relating to an artist’s professional work and personal expenses, and amounts range up to $50,000. Artists must be actively exhibiting their current work in professional artistic venues, such as gallery and museum spaces. Learn more and apply here.
ArtFields Artist in Residence Program (Lake City, SC)
Rolling Application. This new initiative expands our commitment to supporting Southern artists by offering dedicated time, space, and resources to create, experiment, and connect with the Lake City community. https://www.artfieldssc.org/news/artfields-launches-artist-residency-program/.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Take the What’s Next Knoxville Survey
This spring you shared what you love about Knoxville, what you want to retain, and what you think should change. Now, we’re asking “HOW?” Using your feedback, the project team crafted a draft vision statement and goals, and options for how different priorities could shape the future of Knoxville. Tell us what matters most to you! Take the survey! When you do, you’ll be entered to win a $50 Visa gift card! We’re drawing a winner each week through November 23rd. Please help us spread the word by sharing this survey with friends, family, and neighbors.
Registration is officially OPEN for Arrowmont Spring 2027 Workshops!
Your wait is over— Explore our 2027 National Workshop Calendar and start planning your year of hands-on creativity! With over 150 workshops across 2027 Spring, Summer, and Fall, there is a class for every interest and skill level. Whether you’re an experienced artist, a seasoned maker, or simply creative-curious, ALL are welcome. Secure your spot today and learn alongside master artists in these popular early-season sessions. Mark your calendar: Summer and Fall registration opens January 4, 2027. Want a head start on your top choices? Visit the individual workshop pages to sign up for alerts and be notified the moment registration goes live!
New Classes Available at the Art Guild Tellico Village
Our new site for class descriptions and registration with a secure payment system is up and running!
Your story is Knoxville’s story — share it today and preserve it forever!
The East Tennessee History Center is asking ACA members to be part of its Citizen Historian project. Participants will receive a collection box to fill with objects, photographs, writings, ephemera, or other pieces that tell a story about what it’s like to be part of the Knoxville community in 2026. It’s an opportunity to make sure the people, places, and creative work that matter to you become part of the historical record. If you’d like to participate, email Casey Fox, cf@knoxalliance.com, to arrange to pick up your Citizen Historian box. Boxes must be returned to the Emporium by December 15. Learn more: https://www.knoxcountylibrary.org/citizen-historian
Tennessee Arts Commission Fall 2026 Grants Workshops
October 12 through November 4. Various Dates & Locations. This fall, the Tennessee Arts Commission is hitting the road with free grant workshops in communities across the state. Commission staff will walk you through upcoming grant opportunities and what’s new in the guidelines, show you how to register in the online portal, and share best practices for writing a strong application. Bring your questions. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or a longtime grantee, everyone is welcome. Registration is now open, so RSVP today to hold your spot at the workshop nearest you. Click the link to see Dates and Locations for workshops taking place October 12 – November 4.
Artist Lab: Working With a Film Producer
November 5 Zoom. When is the right time to bring key collaborators onto a documentary film? Join Raúl Paz-Pastrana, (2022 Creative Capital Awardee, 2024 Guggenheim Fellow) and Gabriella García-Pardo (2026 Creative Capital State of the Art Prize Recipient) for a conversation about building the right team at every stage of a documentary’s development and production. Drawing from their work together on Backside (nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival), they’ll share practical insights into how teams take shape and evolve throughout a project. What does each producer bring to a film, and how do their roles differ? When should you bring on an editor, field producer, or publicist? How do you identify what your project needs and when? Raúl and Gabriella will discuss the journey from development and production through post-production and release, offering strategies for identifying collaborators, defining roles, and building a flexible team that can support a documentary as it grows.
Tennessee Craft’s Lunch & Learn: Kelly Hider – Writing Artist Statements
November 10 Virtual Sesson. This presentation will cover why it’s important to write an artist statement, and different kinds of artist statements. It will also go over all the things an artist may want to address or consider when writing an artist statement including audience, tone, and content. This presentation will also include a very brief stream-of-consciousness writing exercise, and additional tips for feeling more confident in writing artist statements.
Artist Lab: From Writing Practice to Published Book
November 13 Zoom. How can a writer’s ideas, archives, research, and lived experience become a book—and what kind of book should it be? This Artist Lab session features Ibrahim Ahmad, executive editor of Viking Penguin, and explores how writers can recognize the “book-shaped” version of their practice and begin translating ambitious, idiosyncratic work into a form that editors, agents, publishers, and readers can understand. The conversation will address what makes a proposal compelling: how to balance personal story, research, and argument; and how to think about audience, publicity, and long-term readership without flattening the work’s complexity or force. The session will also consider when a project belongs with a trade publisher versus an independent press, academic press, or alternative platform.
Tennessee Craft’s Lunch & Learn: Nadine Shillingford – C.A.N.V.A.S: Awareness & Network Vigilance for Artists Safety
November 17 Virtual Sesson. This presentation is designed to help artists and other creatives enhance the security of their online art practices. It covers key concepts such as social engineering, malware, ransomware, and phishing, and provides practical tips on protecting online presence, including the use of strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and password managers. Participants will also learn how to identify phishing attempts and what steps to take if they fall victim to such attacks.
Artist Advance: Grant Writing for Artists by Lauren Strohacker & Casey Fox
November 18, 9:30AM at the Emporium. Join Arts & Culture Alliance staff Casey Fox and Lauren Strohacker for a micro-workshop on grant writing for Artists. Through her fundraising work on behalf of several local nonprofits, Casey has secured more than $5M in local, state, and federal grant funds. She also serves on review panels for the Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Since 2008, Lauren has earned over $40,000 in grant funding for her public art projects. Casey and Lauren will present best practices for preparing for an artist grant followed by a Q&A session at the November Artist Roundtable. Key Topics: Crafting a compelling narrative, copy editing, image preparation, external review protocol, internal deadlines, crafting a compelling narrative
(NEW) Tennessee Craft’s Lunch & Learn: Jeff Brown – Customer Journey
November 24 Virtual Sesson. Every interaction with a customer shapes their connection to your work. This webinar will guide craft artists through the customer journey, from first discovery to purchase, repeat engagement, and long-term loyalty. Learn practical strategies for identifying key touchpoints, strengthening relationships, and creating meaningful experiences that grow both your audience and your sales.
2027 Maker City Summit
January 29 – January 31 at Maker Exchange. A weekend of creative inspiration, shared community, and maker business growth. No matter if you’ve been at this for years or you’re just dipping your toes in, there’s a seat saved for you. The lineup’s as diverse as makers themselves; from painters to potters, brewers to bakers, performers to fabricators. As a part-time hobbyist or a full-time entrepreneur, this is where you’ll learn, be inspired, and connect with folks who get what it means to build something from scratch and pour your heart into it.
Tennessee Artists Association: Virgil Elliot Portrait Painting Workshop
May 2027. Virgil Elliott will return in May 2027 to our STUDIO 106 in Knoxville for a two or three day portrait workshop. The event will be with a live model. If you are interested now is the time to advise Buddy Person: wcp1947@gmail.com and reserve your seat. The class is limited. Early in 2027 we will finalize the dates and class price. Your reservations now will hold you a seat without obligation. When the dates and prices are set you will have first choice to confirm your seat in the class. The confirmation will be complete upon receiving your payment check. Will update when days/times are finalized.
Arrowmont: The Figurative Symposium
September 8 – 12, 2027. Every four years, Arrowmont becomes a sanctuary for those who give form to the human condition. The Figurative Symposium is a rare, immersive gathering where raw material meets the human spirit—bringing together ceramic artists and dreamers dedicated to both the tactile mastery and deep philosophical poetry of the figurative form. Join us September 8-12, 2027 for four days of immersive learning, applied skills, and theoretical exploration as figurative ceramics takes over every studio and gallery on campus.
Fall Classes at Appalachian Arts Craft Center
The Fall Season has begun! That means it is time to embrace your creative spirit and take advantage of all that Appalachian Arts has to offer. Enter into this creative environment that supports learning. Take a break, add to your skills and talents, and treat yourself to a class or two. Learn something new like soap making, pottery, weaving, or jewelry making and build new friendships in the process.
Arrowmont Fall Workshops are now OPEN
Immersive workshops provide students of all skill levels the opportunity to work alongside talented instructors in our professionally equipped studios. Our instructors are studio artists, college or university faculty, and lifelong creators who are passionate about sharing their techniques with others. Click to find a workshop!
The Laurel Theater Seeking Volunteers
Did you know that if you volunteer for a show you get in free to that show?! We have some great opportunities at every show to help out. Those include: Door Volunteer (7:15-9:15) These folks are responsible for checking in pre-orders, making sales at the door, and assisting with any questions from patrons. Concessions Volunteer (7:30-9:30) Here you will assist patrons with any concessions needs. This person should be able to use the stairs (you can sit at the back near the stairs and only run down when folks need something) and also lift around 20 pounds. Stage Setup Volunteer (4:30-6:30) This person will work with our sound engineer hauling equipment up from downstairs and getting the stage ready for the artist load in and sound check. Must be good with stairs and lifting 50 pounds. This volunteer will be trained by our lead sound engineer Lou Gross. Stage Breakdown Volunteer (9:30-10:30) This person will work with our sound engineer to properly breakdown and store sound gear. They will also assist the concert manager in the breakdown and storage of chairs. Must be good with stairs and lifting 50 pounds. This volunteer will be trained by our lead sound engineer Lou Gross. If you are interested in being part of this please reach out to Evie Andrus for more information and to signup for shows.
Volunteer with the Fountain City Art Center
From welcoming visitors and assisting with classes to helping with exhibits, events, and behind-the-scenes projects, volunteers play an important role in creating a vibrant and welcoming creative space. Whether you can help occasionally or would like to become part of our ongoing Community & Creativity Team, there are opportunities to fit a variety of interests and schedules.
Ongoing Creative Opportunities
Sightseers: A Drawing Club for People Who Like Plants
Third Thursdays, 6:00PM – 8:00PM: Join the team from Museum of Infinite Outcomes at the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum for an evening of en plein air drawing — a practice of observing light, form, color, and scale. Each session features a botanical model and guided observation exercises. Bring your own supplies (basic materials available) and enjoy a creative, reflective experience in nature. Suggested donation: $10. No pre-registration required.
Luna Creative: Sketch Club Saturdays
Join fellow artists on Saturday mornings 10am – Noon for a creative refresh in a welcoming, lighthearted environment. You’ll have the option of being inside, in a spacious, light-filled space with access to a full kitchen, or outside under a covered pavilion. You can bring a project you’d like to work on, sketch from provided still life sets, or work plein aire. All levels are welcome and no experience is needed.
PSCC Lifelong Learning Catalog for Spring 2026
Pellissippi State Community College has released its Spring 2026 Lifelong Learning Catalog, featuring professional development courses designed for today’s workplace. Offerings include training in AI for business, leadership development, LinkedIn strategy, and specialized manufacturing and industry programs. These locally delivered courses can provide an affordable way to upskill employees and strengthen leadership pipelines.
Register now for 2026 Art Classes at the Fountain City Art Center
We offer art classes in oil, acrylic, watercolor, drawing, and three-dimensional art for children and adults, with more classes in the works. Classes are offered at a discounted rate for FCAC members. Join today and enjoy the benefits of membership while supporting our community of arts and music.
Creative Capital Self-Paced Learning: Taxes for Artists
Learn essentials for managing taxes as an artist—including filing requirements, income and expense tracking, common deductions, and when to work with an accountant. Taxes for Artists demystifies tax filing—so you can approach tax season with more clarity and less stress. The course breaks down the types of taxes artists may encounter, from federal and state income tax to employment and sales taxes, including how rates work and how they’re calculated.
Artist Lab Course: Legal Basics For Artists
Learn about contracts regarding who owns art made within different working relationships. These relationships include working in partnerships and collectives, working for an organization as an employee or independent contractor, and working with an organization to exhibit your work. The course also covers when to form a legal entity, and offers questionnaires about how to know if you own a copyright, what to ask before entering a creative collaboration, and how to prepare for your first meeting with a lawyer.
Free Dance Advocacy Training for Dance Professionals
On-demand, comprehensive webinars on advocacy in the government and the workplace. Dance/USA believes every dance professional can acquire the skills to create change. Access both trainings immediately, then sign up for companion resources to put your learning into action.
Rockvale Writers’ Colony
Rolling deadline. Rockvale Writers’ Colony exists to support, promote, and educate writers of all backgrounds who write in any genre. We provide a safe, comfortable, and inspiring environment where resident writers can work on a writing project. In addition, we host themed retreats in which writers can learn, explore, and join in community with others who share the love of writing.
Sarasvati Creative Space Residency
Rolling deadline. Residency for Artists and Writers: Venture to the rural rolling hills of Appalachia in the Western Highland Rim-one of the best light-pollution-free zones in the region. Explore the flora and fauna of the biodiverse region of midsouth Tennessee. You’ll have access to seventeen acres with a variety of habitat, furnished housing, space to work, and interactions with the camp donkeys, chickens and roosters, camp cats, two farm dogs, and a peafowl couple.
JOBS
The Birdhouse Seeks a Director
November 9 Application Due. The Birdhouse is looking for an organized, multitasking, community-minded director to help lead the many moving parts of our social enterprise. This is a dynamic, hands-on role for someone who enjoys bringing people together, turning ideas into actions, and balancing a variety of projects that support our mission. The director ultimately is in charge of day-to-day operations and growth with the support of a wonderful group of volunteers, partners, and supporters. We are looking for a strong project manager who has initiative, enjoys working both independently and with a diverse group of volunteers, and likes wearing many different hats. This position offers a flexible, autonomous schedule; however, evening and weekend work are common.
Pretentious Glass Seeks Full-Time Gallery Manager
Pretentious Glass is looking for an organized and creative gallery manager to lead our retail space, coordinate projects across our team, and continue growing our online presence. This role is a great opportunity for anyone who is naturally curious, loves to share niche interests with others, and thrives in the rapidly changing environment of a creative space. Bonus points if you have a background in social media (and know a few good jokes)! If this sounds like a good fit, we want to hear from you!
Metro Nashville Seeks Public Art Manager
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Public Art Manager is a full-time Civil Service position responsible for leading the program management, policy development, financial analysis, and oversight of all aspects of Metro’s award-winning public art program, which includes administration of both capital (One Percent for Art) and operating budgets. The Public Art Manager oversees the permanent Percent for Art collection, including oversight of multiple ongoing projects that range in scope and complexity. The Public Art Manager serves in a key operational and strategic leadership position and supervises the work of all public art project managers (currently four). The position works directly with artists, community and institutional partners, colleagues across the agency, the Arts Commission, and other stakeholders to create and strengthen opportunities for public artists and expand access to public art experiences in Nashville and Davidson County. This position manages a wide array of public and private partnerships with Metro departments and local, state, and national organizations committed to public art. The Public Art Manager requires strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, interpersonal skills, and a passion for the mission of Metro Arts.
Tennessee Craft Seeking Marketing Manager
The Marketing Manager serves as the organization’s primary communications professional, overseeing content creation, media relations, storytelling, digital communications, brand management, and promotional campaigns. Working closely with the Executive Director and staff team, this position helps ensure consistent messaging, compelling public engagement, and effective donor and stakeholder communications.
Tennessee Craft Seeking Operations & Development Manager
The Operations & Development Manager plays a vital dual role in driving the mission of Tennessee Craft. This position manages key operational logistics, internal systems, and database administration while supporting revenue development through grant writing, individual donor stewardship, and sponsor cultivation.
INDIVIDUAL MEMBER NEWS
Congrats to Lila Holdenried on organizing and participating in the group exhibition, Jackson Ave Pop-Up Art Show titled, Art, Unexpected. The pop up will be on view Friday, November 6th from 5PM to 9PM. Participating artists include Lila Holdenried, Debbie Alley, Michelle Barillaro, Kira Evans, Noreen Norton, Brandon Woods, and Cheryl Wilson.
Let’s Celebrate Laurel Hughes who recently received the “Special Recognition Award” in the animal catagory for her scratchboard “Touchdown”. The 2026 Tennessee Artists Association Juried Exhibition runs through November 6th at the Fountain City Art Center. This year’s juror was internationally recognized Water colorist Lauren McCracken.
(NEW) Congrats to Lauren Adams on her exhibition at Tri-Star Arts! Her work will be in the Golden Chain Gallery project space located at the historic Candoro Marble Building. Oneiric Expanse by Lauren Adams (Knoxville, TN) opens Friday, November 20, 2026 and will run through Saturday, January 23, 2027. This show is located within the unique architectural space of a narrow wooden stairwell. An opening reception will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026 from 5:00 until 8:00 pm (artist in attendance). The address is 4450 Candora Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37920 and admission is always free of charge.
LOCAL, REGIONAL and NATIONAL NEWS / SUGGESTED READING
Brand New Music Venue The 808 Comes Out Swinging on Sevier Avenue
Long before Brian Coakley and Scott Campbell began turning an empty building on Sevier Avenue into a 420-capacity live-music venue, they were another couple of dudes in the crowd, chasing bands from room to room and soaking up the peculiar alchemy that occurs when the right music, the right people and the right place collide.
ONGOING CALLS
Rolling deadline: Express Grants from South Arts
www.southarts.org/community-organization-grants/express-grants
Rolling deadline: Ford Foundation Grants Available for Independent Film and Media Projects
www.fordfoundation.org/work/our-grants/justfilms/
New York Foundation for the Arts: COVID-19 Related Resources for Artists of All Disciplines
www.nyfa.org/Content/Show/Emergency%20Grants
National Endowment for the Arts – COVID-19 Resources for Artists and Arts Organizations
www.arts.gov/covid-19-resources-for-artists-and-arts-organizations
Adobe Creative Residency Community Fund
https://www.adobe.com/about-adobe/creative-residency/community-fund.html
The Adolph & Esther Gottlieb Emergency Grant
www.gottliebfoundation.org/emergency-grant/
Americans for the Arts’ Public Art Opportunities
https://www.americansforthearts.org/by-program/networks-and-councils/public-art-network/opportunities.
Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts: Scholarships (Gatlinburg)
https://arrowmont.org/financial-aid/
Arts and Craft Show Listings in Tennessee
www.artscraftsshowbusiness.com/eventlistings_1.aspx
Art Gallery Submissions for The Bijou Theatre (Knoxville)
https://knoxbijou.org/galleryform.html
Art Gallery at Oak Ridge Unitarian Universalist Church: Exhibitions (Oak Ridge)
www.oruuc.org/the-art-gallery-at-oruuc
ArtWalk Connect for First Fridays in Knoxville
https://www.downtownknoxville.org/firstfriday-artwalk/connect/
The Awesome Foundation: $1,000 Grants
www.awesomefoundation.org/en
The Bascom’s Residency and Internship Program (Highlands, NC)
https://www.thebascom.org/professional-development/residencies-fellowships-internships
BoldBrush Competitions (online)
https://faso.com/boldbrush/
Bristol Public Library Seeks Exhibition Proposals (Bristol, VA)
https://bristol-library.org/art-in-the-library/
Broadway Studios & Gallery: Guest Artist Gallery (Knoxville)
Call 865-556-8676. www.broadwaystudiosandgallery.com
John C. Campbell Folk School – 9-Week Work Studies (Brasstown, NC)
www.folkschool.org/index.php?section=articles&article_cat_id=24&article_id=97
Community TV Program – Artisan Features
www.youtube.com/channel/UCsUVy7O4lv98uXd6KiU6APQ. If you have ideas for a show or know an artist who might be interested in being profiled, please contact Greg Downs, 865-399-3907 or gregorydowns55@gmail.com
Wilma W. Daniels Gallery Call for Exhibition Proposals (Wilmington, NC)
https://cfcc.ungerboeck.com/prod/app/embedded-oar.html?CC=2#&ui4nvh!eyJuYXYiOiJ2aWV3QWRkQWNjb3VudCJ9!ui4nvh; zpluer@cfcc.edu or 910-362-7896.
Dogwood Arts: First Friday Artist/Curator Applications
https://www.dogwoodarts.com/applications
Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation: Artist Grants
https://www.elizabethgreenshieldsfoundation.org/
The Emporium Center
www.knoxalliance.com/emporium-exhibition-policies
Foundation for Contemporary Arts: Emergency Grants
www.foundationforcontemporaryarts.org/grants/emergency-grants
Knoxville Entrepreneur Center: Free One-On-One Mentor Session Sign-Ups
https://kecmentoring.as.me/schedule.php
The Maker City Directory
https://themakercity.org/news/join-the-maker-city-directory
LOCATE Arts Artist Registry
http://locatearts.org/artists/submit
National Park Service Artist-in-Residence Programs
www.nps.gov/subjects/arts/air.htm
National Parks Arts Foundation Residencies
www.nationalparksartsfoundation.org/#!apply-/c1as3
Oak Ridge Art Center: Exhibition Proposals (Oak Ridge)
Info: oakridgeartcenter@comcast.net
O’Brien Art Gallery at Roane State Community College: Exhibition Proposals (Harriman)
865-354-3000 x4748 or wilkersonbs@roanestate.edu
Old Furnace Artist Residency (Harrisonburg, VA)
http://oldfurnace.tumblr.com
Be a Presenter at PechaKucha Night Knoxville (various dates)
http://form.jotform.com/60598746827170
Public Art Kingsport Seeks Exhibit Proposals (Kingsport)
To apply, submit brief bio, artist statement and up to five images of work: bethestep@kingsporttn.gov
Rothrock Used Bookstore (at Lawson McGhee Library) Call to Artists (Knoxville)
Call or email Susan Bernard: Tanbryn@me.com or 865-805-9349 (leave a message).
Tennessee Arts Commission: Student Ticket Subsidy Information
https://tnartscommission.org/grants/student-ticket-subsidy-sts/
Tennessee Arts Commission: Various Grants
https://tnartscommission.org/grant-opportunities/
Thin Air (online publication)
https://thinair.submittable.com/submit
Todd Art Gallery (TAG) Exhibition Proposals (Murfreesboro)
https://mtsutoddartgallery.submittable.com/submit/37329/todd-art-gallery-tag-exhibition-proposal-guidelines
Women’s Studio Workshop Grants, Residencies, Internships (Rosendale, NY)
www.wsworkshop.org/opportunity-calendar/
ONGOING WORKSHOPS
Mon, Tue & Thu: Free Movement Classes (Zoom)
Contact Don Parsley for more info or to be added to his zoom listing at spiritofthedragon01@gmail.com
Wednesdays, 10:15 AM – 1 PM: Bead Weaving for Beginners (Norris)
With Sharon Wilcox. https://app-arts-craft-center.square.site/product/bead-weaving-for-beginners/1213
Wednesdays, 6-8 PM: Life Drawing Sessions (Knoxville)
www.knoxdraw.com/sessions
Thursdays, 9:30 AM: Plein Air Group near Tellico Village
Info: maryladner2011@gmail.com
Sundays, Circle Modern Dance Classes
865-309-5309, www.circlemoderndance.com
Sundays, 4 PM: Knoxville Argentine Tango Classes
http://www.knoxvilletango.org/home.html
Appalachian Center for Craft
www.tntech.edu/fine-arts/craftcenter/workshops/
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (Gatlinburg)
865-436-5860 or https://arrowmont.org/about-workshops/
Art Guild at Fairfield Glade (Fairfield Glade)
931-707-7249; www.artguildfairfieldglade.net
Art Guild of Tellico Village
423-884-3191, www.tellicoartguild.org
John C. Campbell Folk School (Brasstown, NC)
www.folkschool.org/
Dragonfly Aerial & Circus Arts Studio Classes
www.dragonflyaerialartsstudio.com
Knox Makers Upcoming Events/Workshops
https://knoxmakers.org/events/
Knox Music Studios
865-330-9730 or www.knoxmusicstudios.com
Knoxville Arts & Fine Crafts Center Art Classes
www.knoxvilletn.gov/kafcc or 865-523-1401
Knoxville Children’s Theatre Classes
https://knoxvillechildrenstheatre.com/classes/
The Maker City: Maker Meet-ins
http://themakercity.org/meet-in
Mighty Mud: Programs, Classes & Workshops
https://classes.mightymud.com/
Momentum Dance Lab: Classes
www.momentumdancelab.org/classes
Museum of Infinite Outcomes: Workshops
http://museumofinfiniteoutcomes.com/school
Oak Ridge Art Center Classes & Workshops
865-482-1441 or www.oakridgeartcenter.org
Pellissippi State Community College: Lifelong Learning Classes
www.pstcc.edu/
Relay Ridge: Workshops
https://relayridge.org/workshops/
Rose Center Community Education Spotlight: Current Classes
https://www.rosecenter.org/take-a-class
Social Dance Knoxville
https://socialdanceknoxville.com/
Studio Arts for Dancers
http://app.jackrabbitclass.com/regv2.asp?id=540749 and https://studioartsfordancers.net
Free Webinars using WordPress
Topics include Getting Started: Website Building 101, Making Money, Quick Start: Blogging , WooCommerce 101, and more. https://wordpress.com/webinars/
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by the City of Knoxville and Knox County.
