The artistic traditions of the Tennessee Overhill are as diverse as the people who live here. Native Americans, Europeans, African Americans and other immigrants have all had a hand in shaping the arts to reflect the area’s culture. Art galleries and crafts shops are sprinkled across the region. You can find them in mountain villages, historic downtowns and along scenic back roads.
Athens Art Center
The center houses a 200 seat black box theater, art gallery and art market, with regular musical concerts, plays, art exhibits, art classes and dances. There is always an art exhibit in the gallery and the art market offers regional artists’ works for sale.
Hours: Mon – Fri, 10:00 – 5:00. Contact for event schedule.
320 N. White St.
Athens, TN 37371
Work: 423-745-8781
www: http://athensartscouncil.org/
Black Bear Trading Post
Featuring chainsaw art carved on site: bears, totem poles, benches, signs and custom designs from salvaged local wood. Also handmade candles are sold.
Hours: Wed- Fri, 10:00 – 5:00; Sat,10:00-2:00, and by appointment.
1142 Hwy. 411
Vonore, TN 37885
Work: 423-884-2800
www: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQDBayvm-dk
Christmas is Here
The gallery features award winning hand-hewn bowls by Rip & Tami Mann but a number of other artists’ works are offered for sale as well.
Hours: Mon-Sat, 10:00-5:00; Sun, 1:00-5:00
111 Ocoee St.
Copperhill, TN 37317
Work: 423-496-1166
www: http://www.christmasishere.net/
Coker Creek Gallery
The gallery features fine arts, woodworks, pottery, forged metal, blown glass, and more.
At times there are artisans working onsite.
Hours: (Mar – Dec) Wed– Sat, 10:00- 5:00 and by chance or appointment.
12088 New Hwy. 68
Coker Creek, TN 37385
Work: 423-261-2157
www: http://www.cokercreekgallery.com/
Coker Creek Welcome Center
This center displays an array of local and regional arts and crafts; books, baskets, pottery and jewelry. Also, this is a non-profit organization that supports the local community Post Office while providing information for travelers. Occasionally, live music is presented.
Hours: Mon-Sat, 10:00 – 5:00
12197 New Hwy. 68
Coker Creek, TN 37385
Work: 423-261-2286
www: http://www.cokercreek.org/
Etowah Arts Commission Gallery
The gallery sponsors and encourages cultural and educational activities in the city and surrounding areas. Activities and exhibits include art exhibits, art classes, craft projects and artist receptions.
Hours: Thurs-Sat, Noon- 6:00
700 Tennessee Ave.
Etowah, TN 37331
Work: 423-263-7608
www: http://www.etowaharts.org/
Ms. B’s Purple Bus
This bus crashed on the side of road in 1995 and was then turned into this quirky store for handmade jewelry, survival bracelets, earthy clothing, etc. It is a funky little place worth a visit and a look-see.
Hours: Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun, Noon to Sunset. Closed Tues & Wed
636 Hwy. 64
Ocoee, TN 37361
Work: 423-338-7822
Polk County Newspaper Bookshop
This charming bookshop and coffee bar serves as an art gallery for local artists and craftsmen. New books by local authors and used books are sold. The shop also maintains history files and photographs for public access. Free WiFi.
Hours: Mon-Fri (and special events), 9:00 – 5:00
3 Main St.
Benton, TN 38307
Work: 423-338-2818
www: http://www.polknewsonline.com/
Scott Street Gallery
Gallery featuring local artists includes the working studio of Shelia Holbo. You will often find her at work drawing, painting, carving in wood or working on her Cherokee flat weaving. Shelia’s artwork on display features mountain scenes, animals and florals.
Hours: Tues & Wed; Fri & Sat, 11:00- 6:00
700 Veterans Memorial Dr.
Tellico Plains, TN 37385
Sequoyah Birthplace Museum
The beautiful museum gift shop has an array of books, music and authentic Native American crafts.
Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:00 – 5:00; Sun, Noon- 5:00
Hwy. 360
Vonore, TN 37885
Work: 423-884-6246
www: http://www.sequoyahmuseum.org/
Shop the World Gifts
Englewood’s hidden treasure; this delightful shop is full of handcrafted items from around the world. Bill & Jean Cochran acquire their merchandise from fair-trade markets around the world, so you can feel good about your purchase.
Hours: Mon-Sat 10:00-6:00
3230 Hwy 411 North
Englewood, TN 37329
Work: 423-745-8781
www: http://www.shoptheworldgifts.com/
Stone Cottage
Brenda Lee’s restored stone Arts & Crafts period bungalow is filled with fine antiques, local & antique pottery, hand tinted photos and Amish cedar chests. You may find her harvesting the herb garden in the side yard or weaving herbs into works of art on her handloom. Her herbal art is just one of the Cottage’s unique treasures on display.
Hours: Every day except Wed & Sun, 11am – 6pm
121 Scott St.
Tellico Plains, TN 37385
Work: 423-253-2400
Tellico Arts Center
Representing over 70 talented local artists and craftspeople; fine art, fabric art, pottery, books, and musical recordings.
Hours: Mon-Sat, Noon- 5:00; extended hours for special events.
113 Scott St.
Tellico Plains, TN 37385
Work: 423-253-2253
www: http://www.tellico-plains.com/tellico-arts-center.html
