





Arrowmont is a vibrant center for creative expression in scenic Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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.
May 31, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Nick Kleinschmidt, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 31, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Nick Kleinschmidt, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 31, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Nick Kleinschmidt, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 31, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Nick Kleinschmidt, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 31, 2026
Photo attribution
(c) Nick Kleinschmidt, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
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