Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts photo
ParkTennessee, US

Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts

Arrowmont is a vibrant center for creative expression in scenic Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

About

Arrowmont is a vibrant center for creative expression in scenic Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled on a wooded hillside just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this unique school of arts and crafts offers an immersive experience for artists and art lovers alike. It's a place where tradition meets innovation, preserving the rich heritage of Appalachian craft while fostering contemporary artistic development.

The campus boasts five public galleries, showcasing a diverse range of artworks from instructors, resident artists, and national and international craftspeople, alongside pieces from its permanent collection. Visitors can explore various artistic disciplines through these rotating exhibitions, including ceramics, fiber arts, metalwork, woodworking, painting, drawing, and more. Beyond the galleries, art installations and murals are integrated throughout the campus, creating an inspiring environment for creative discovery.

Arrowmont offers a welcoming community where creativity flourishes, whether you're taking a multi-day workshop, attending a special event, or simply exploring the grounds. It provides a rare opportunity to witness art in the making, engage with artists, and connect with a storied tradition of craftsmanship. This cultural gem in the Smokies is a must-visit for anyone seeking artistic inspiration and a deeper understanding of craft. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.

Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts has a rich history rooted in Appalachian culture, beginning in 1912 as the Pi Beta Phi Settlement School. Founded by the Pi Beta Phi women's fraternity, the school initially provided essential education and healthcare to the remote community of Gatlinburg. As the region developed, the focus gradually shifted towards preserving and promoting local handicrafts, which were integral to the community's livelihood. In 1945, the school launched its transformative Summer Crafts Workshop, a collaboration with the University of Tennessee, attracting students and instructors from across the country. This successful program eventually led to the formal establishment of the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in 1968, transitioning it into a year-round center dedicated to art and craft education. Today, its campus features historic buildings, with two districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting its century-long legacy.

What to do here

Discover contemporary craft in the galleries, observe artists at work in the studios during workshops (where visible), purchase unique handcrafted items, or simply enjoy a stroll through the historic, wooded campus. Consider participating in a one-day or evening community workshop to try a new craft like woodworking, fiber arts, or ceramics.

Seasonal info

Summer and Fall workshop sessions often bring extended hours and a bustling campus atmosphere. The surrounding Great Smoky Mountains provide beautiful scenery throughout the seasons.

Accessibility

Arrowmont is committed to accessibility. The studios and housing facilities are accessible. However, the campus terrain is described as moderate mountain terrain, so visitors with mobility concerns should be aware. For specific needs, it is recommended to contact the school directly.

Don't miss

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Explore the diverse offerings across the four on-campus galleries, including the Sandra J. Blain Galleries, the Geoffrey A. Wolpert Gallery, and the Jerry Drown Wood Studio Gallery, which frequently feature rotating exhibitions. Don't miss the various outdoor art installations and murals scattered around the campus. Visitors can also browse the Artist Outfitters Store, which includes the Showcase Gallery with works by Arrowmont-connected artists, and check out the Marian Heard Library for displays from the school's permanent collection.

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Good to know before you go

Call Ahead for Hours

** Verify current gallery hours and any special events or workshop schedules, especially if visiting on a weekend or during off-peak seasons.

Use Baskins Creek Bypass Entrance

To avoid potential traffic congestion on the main Gatlinburg Parkway, use the entrance at 150 Baskins Creek Bypass.

Obtain Gate Code

The campus entrances are gated; call Arrowmont (865-436-5860) for the current entry code before your visit.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The campus is spread over 13 acres with moderate mountain terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring.

Check Exhibition Schedule

Before your visit, look online for the current exhibition schedule to see what's on display in the galleries.

Consider a Community Workshop

For a more interactive experience, check if any short community workshops are available during your visit, allowing you to try a craft hands-on.

Frequently asked questions

Arrowmont showcases a wide range of contemporary and traditional arts and crafts, including ceramics, fiber arts, metalwork, woodworking, painting, drawing, photography, glass, book arts, and mixed media. Exhibitions feature works by instructors, resident artists, and national and international artists, reflecting the diverse curriculum and creative community of the school.
Yes, Arrowmont offers a variety of workshops for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. These include one-week and weekend intensives, as well as shorter community workshops (some for ages 5+) in various media. Workshops provide hands-on learning with expert instructors in professionally equipped studios.
Yes, the galleries on the Arrowmont campus are free and open to the public year-round, allowing visitors to explore exhibitions and installations. There are also many small art displays throughout the campus. While workshops require registration and fees, exploring the grounds and galleries does not.

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