Calendar of Events

Friday, August 5
4pm - 7pm
Ribbon Cutting at 5:30 p.m.

Come see the new "Small & Mighty" art gallery A1LabArts created inside Scruffy's Cafe. A1's show will be displayed through September 27. Scruffy's Cafe will receive a 20% commission on all art sold. Artists may also use this gallery for future shows, beginning in October.

At 5:30 pm, Talisa Cantrell, a Scruffy's Cafe co-owner, will cut the ribbon on the new gallery.

All First Friday guests will receive free access into the cat room after signing a waiver. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be for sale.

1015 N Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917
https://www.a1labarts.com/

The #FirstFriday reception will take place Friday, August 5th from 5-8PM at 123 W. Jackson Avenue in the Historic Old City.

Exhibition on Display: August 5th - September 16th
Regular Gallery Hours: M-F 10AM-5PM

Carl Gombert was born in Brimfield, Ohio in 1959. He started taking painting lessons at the age of 14 with money he earned delivering newspapers. He earned a BFA in Drawing from the University of Akron and an MFA in Painting from Kent State University. He worked as a stagehand before pursuing a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Fine Arts at Texas Tech University. He has exhibited widely and his work is in numerous public and corporate collections. Since 1993 has taught painting, drawing and art history at Maryville College in Tennessee.

"There are two sides to my work. I am committed to the techniques of large scale, unflinching realism. But I also am strongly compelled by the mathematical complexities and opportunity for play in decorative, patterned works. For years I was torn between the two sides, vacillating between them in a fool’s game of trying to guess what work was best suited for which venue, and trying to decide which was my “true” practice. I am old enough now to know that both are authentic parts of my voice. I love pattern, I love decoration, and I love sparkle. I also love to draw. For years I have wrestled with the false expectation that artists must be unfailingly committed to a single consistent path.

I think of the realistic images as plausible fictions. They use the techniques of realism to create impossibly large or artificially colored portraits “as if” those sitters actually exist.

The hand-stamped works, on the other hand, rely on radial structure and repetition to explore complexity arising from the application of simple rules. Taking the forms of mandalas and quilts, they attempt to balance opposites, relying equally on dark and light and on positive and negative shapes. Although they appear highly planned, the work results from a largely improvisational approach. Combinations of images are not generally selected beforehand; rather the images begin in the center and evolve intuitively as they grow larger. The interaction of smaller pop culture icons and images allows for endless free association and for exploring multiple chains of connection between the parts, while at the same time coalescing into larger complex patterns. In this little world there is symmetry and balance and order, but neither rhyme nor reason." -Carl Gombert

Dogwood Arts, 123 W. Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902. Information: 865-637-4561, www.dogwoodarts.com

The public is invited to attend the opening reception for the prestigious Judged and Juried Fine Arts Show on Friday, August 5 from 5 - 7 p.m. at which time the winners will be announced.

Juror-Judge, Nick DeFord is an artist, educator, and arts administrator who resides in Knoxville, TN. He received his MFA from Arizona State University, and an MS and BFA from the University of Tennessee. Nick regularly exhibits his fiber and mixed media work, with past exhibitions at the Bascom Center for Visual Arts, the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, the Knoxville Museum of Art and East Tennessee State University. His artwork and writing have been published in Surface Design Journal, Elephant Magazine, Hayden Ferry Review, and Willow Springs. Currently, DeFord is the Chief Programs Officer at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, as well as a board member for the National Basketry Organization. He also regularly teaches fiber workshops, with past workshops at the University of Louisville, East Carolina University, Arrowmont, and Penland School of Craft. In the fall of 2018 he was a resident at the Rauschenberg Residency in Captiva, Florida. Additionally, he was the juror/reviewer for the Ohio Arts Council and the juror for the American Tapestry Biennial 13.

This event is free and open to the public Monday - Saturday from 9 - 4 p.m. Browse through eye-catching displays of paintings (watercolor, oil, pastels, colored pencil, acrylic, mixed media), photography, pottery, jewelry, woodwork, and more! Artwork in the gallery is available for purchase. Unique gifts can also be found in the Art ’s Center’s retail space, “Endless Possibilities, Fine Arts and Crafts.”

www.facebook.com/ArtGuildatFFG

Art Guild at Fairfield Glade at the Plateau Creative Arts Center, 451 Lakeview Drive, Fairfield Glade, TN 38558. Hours: M-Sa 9-4. Information: 931-707-7249, www.artguildfairfieldglade.net

You are invited to an Artist's Reception with wine, charcuterie and live music!
Saturday, August 20, from 2- 4 PM
Rarity Bay Community Activity Center, 150 Rarity Bay Pkwy, Vonore, TN 37885

Artwork on exhibit now through August 30.

Rarity Bay Activity Center hours: 9 AM - 4 PM Monday through Friday except Tuesday when it is open 9 AM-1 PM. Please call ahead 423-884-3800 to make sure there isn’t an activity going on in the gallery space when you want to visit. https://www.tellicoartguild.com/

First Friday Reception: August 5th, 5:30 – 9:00 pm

John Adkins, Painting
John has a love for plein air paintings and still life paintings. His artistic journey began as a high school student in Guin, Alabama. He earned his Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree from Auburn University in 1976. John has discovered over time that practicing pharmacy and painting can both be healing and therapeutic activities. His art education has continued over 45 years in various workshops and with numerous teachers! In October 1999 he laid the groundwork for the “Plein Air Artists of Alabama” (PAAA), the first plein air organization in the state of Alabama. He served as PAAA president until 2010 when the group became inactive. John has several prints available for purchase along with his original works. Contact the artist or visit his website www.johnadkinsartrx1.com for details. John believes in the continuing power of art to change the world and open doors. Art knocks down barriers and is a language understood by all. The combination of good friends, fellowship, and painting over the years are true blessings for John. He feels very fortunate to be an artist and believes art is a gift that God provides us in order for us to share in the beauty and wonder of His creation. “Art opens doors and enriches lives.”

Vicki Bradshaw, Mixed Media
Vickie Bradshaw is a Southern Appalachian based artist who has been making art for the last thirty years across a variety of media. She has taught metals and torch-fired enamel classes at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN. She is especially interested in mixed-media art and the functionality of found objects. She received her BFA from Memphis College of Arts. Currently she is showing and selling her work at art festivals across the south.

Art Market Gallery, 422 S. Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902. Hours: Tu-Sa 11-6, Su 1-6. Information: 865-525-5265, www.artmarketgallery.net, www.Facebook.com/ArtMarketGallery

Awaken Coffee will host an opening reception for artists Susan B Miller Friday, August 5, from 6-8 pm.

Susan grew up in Knoxville and with her husband raised their children here. She earned a BFA in drawing from UTK. Her art is primarily watercolor or pencil. She has won top awards in local and state competitions. Currently, she is concentrating on common things in nature that she sees on her frequent walks.

Please join us for some amazing art, light refreshments, and of course great coffee!

Awaken Coffee, 125 W Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902. Open daily. Information: 865-951-0427, www.instagram.com/awaken_coffee or www.facebook.com/awakencoffeeoldcity/

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at The Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from August 5-27, 2022. A free reception with the artists will take place on Friday, August 5, from 5:00-9:00 PM. Most of the works will be for sale and may be purchased through the close of the exhibition by visiting in person or the online shop at www.knoxalliance.store.

Art, in its purest form, often communicates deep and strong feelings, private thoughts or shared events in the human experience. The Languages of Art is an exploration of these human experiences through both photographic and verbal artistic skills. As with any artistic endeavor, this work continues to evolve. Jack Retterer first created photography to be followed up with a poetic interpretation of each image. However, he soon began to write the poems first and then seek an ideal image to reinforce the feelings, thoughts and shared events of the poem. With one exception, both the photos and related poetry in this new exhibition are wholly his creations. The one exception features one of Retterer's poems paired (with permission) with an image created by fellow photographer, Steve Olson.

Jack Retterer is a fine art photographer, teacher and poet who is active in the arts community in East Tennessee. His American Impressionist style photography and large canvas prints have been on display and offered for purchase through the Art Market Gallery, Arts & Culture Alliance, Tennessee Artists Association, Plateau Arts Center in Crossville, Art Guild of Tellico Village, Arts at the Airport at McGhee Tyson Airport, Mayors' Offices exhibitions, Clayton Center for the Arts, Rarity Bay Community Center, Fountain City Arts Center, Loudon County Visitors' Center, Oak Ridge Art Gallery and the Venue Conference Center in Lenoir City. Prior to his move to East Tennessee, Retterer taught photography at Benedictine University in Naperville, Illinois. Currently, he teaches Fine Art Photography at the University of Tennessee. He is also active in presenting photography classes and presentations through regional art guilds, photography clubs and art organization across Tennessee.

www.JackRettererPhotography.com

Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, in downtown Knoxville. Hours: M-F 9-5 and Sat Aug 27, 10-1. Info: 865-523-7543, www.knoxalliance.com

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at The Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from August 5-27, 2022. A free reception with the artists will take place on Friday, August 5, from 5:00-9:00 PM. Most of the works will be for sale and may be purchased through the close of the exhibition by visiting in person or the online shop at www.knoxalliance.store.

Foothills Craft Guild is dedicated to encouraging the development and appreciation of arts and handicrafts of all types; promoting high standards of workmanship in handicrafts; conducting educational programs on handicrafts with all ages; sponsoring handicraft shows and demonstrations; and engaging in activities which contribute to the advancement, development, and appreciation of arts and handicrafts of all kinds.

This new exhibition features work by more than fifteen guild members as a highlight to the upcoming fall showcase, Tennessee Showcase of Fine Artisans, November 4-6 at the Expo Center.

www.foothillscraftguild.net

Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, in downtown Knoxville. Hours: M-F 9-5 and Sat Aug 27, 10-1. Info: 865-523-7543, www.knoxalliance.com

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at The Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from August 5-27, 2022. A free reception with the artists will take place on Friday, August 5, from 5:00-9:00 PM. Most of the works will be for sale and may be purchased through the close of the exhibition by visiting in person or the online shop at www.knoxalliance.store.

This new exhibition showcases artwork by Sergio Martinez and his children, Estefano and Valeria, of Honduras, and their friend Héctor Saldivar of Mexico.

Sergio Martínez Ávila and his children live and work in Cantarranas, Honduras. He has 34 years of professional experience with primitivism (1989-1998), genre painting (1999-2005) and figurative art. He has exhibited in various cities in Europe, Asia, Canada, the United States and Latin America. In Honduras, he has participated in auctions, biennials, symposia, salons and anthologies.

Instagram @Sergiomartinez6857
www.facebook.com/Martinezavilasergio

Estefano Martínez is an emerging artist who started his career at the age of 13; he is a naturalist landscaper. Valeria Martínez is an emerging artist who began her career at the age of 12; her style is figurative representation. Both artists have exhibited work in Honduras, where they are recognized for participating in muralistic activities since 2019. Both are currently in their last year of high school.

www.facebook.com/eddieestefano.martinez
www.facebook.com/isauramartinez.valeriamartinez

Héctor Saldivar was born in Mexico City in 1966. Even though he always considered himself a creative person, it was not until later on in life that he embarked on developing his artistic talents. He has participated in events for Casa HoLa (part of HoLa Hora Latina) in Knoxville as well as with the Tennessee Arts Commission in Nashville. He mainly works with papier-mâché and clay, however he also paints with acrylics and oils. He is an alebrijes artist. Alebrijes are brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical (fantasy/mythical) creature. His art honors his Mexican roots.

Instagram @hectorleosculpture

Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, in downtown Knoxville. Hours: M-F 9-5 and Sat Aug 27, 10-1. Info: 865-523-7543, www.knoxalliance.com

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at The Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from August 5-27, 2022. A free reception with the artists will take place on Friday, August 5, from 5:00-9:00 PM. Most of the works will be for sale and may be purchased through the close of the exhibition by visiting in person or the online shop at www.knoxalliance.store.

Terra Madre is a juried group of women clay artists founded in the year 2000 by female ceramic artists in East Tennessee. Their mission is to support each other in their clay work, advance the appreciation of ceramics in East Tennessee and encourage each other in the pursuit of their dreams as artists and as women. Terra Madre members are affiliated with many juried and professional arts organizations. Collectively, the group exhibits in several shows annually; individually, their work has been exhibited all over the country and can be found in galleries, shops, juried fine craft shows and fairs and in many private art collections.

www.facebook.com/TerraMadreKnoxvilleTN
www.Terramadrewomeninclay.com

Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, in downtown Knoxville. Hours: M-F 9-5 and Sat Aug 27, 10-1. Info: 865-523-7543, www.knoxalliance.com

The Arts & Culture Alliance is pleased to present five new exhibitions at The Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville from August 5-27, 2022. A free reception with the artists will take place on Friday, August 5, from 5:00-9:00 PM. Most of the works will be for sale and may be purchased through the close of the exhibition by visiting in person or the online shop at www.knoxalliance.store.

This new exhibition celebrates Tennessee Artist's Association 50th anniversary as the area's oldest member-supported arts organization.

TAA began in 1972 with five members who met for coffee: Jerry Hester, an artist and art teacher, was instrumental in getting the group started with Nancy Hendrix, Randy Laws, Shannon Bays, Nancy Davis and Beverly Prince. Highlights of the first year included an art workshop at Coker Creek and a Spring Show at Concord Park. By 1974, TAA had increased its membership to 35 members. Show chair Virginia Woods helped secure a yearly fall show at West Town Mall which continued until the late 90's. Throughout the 1970's, TAA added shows at Dogwood Arts festivals, Christmas shows at West Town Mall, juried shows at Rechenbach's Art Store, the Knoxville Mayor's Office and the Dulin Gallery. By 1978, the Tennessee Artists Association had over 230 members from 34 cities in Tennessee and remained the only one of its kind in Knoxville. Social issues and concerns were highlighted by shows at the University of Tennessee's School of Law and the Knoxville Women's Center. In the 1980's, shows expanded to include Silver Dollar City in Pigeon Forge, Eastgate Mall in Chattanooga, Fort Henry Mall in Kingsport, Children's Hospital Fantasy of Trees, and 100 Oaks Mall in Nashville. The 1990's saw TAA's continued interest in social causes with shows supporting Children's Hospital, the Scholastic Arts program for students in grades 7-12 in fourteen counties in East Tennessee, and the sponsorship of a Boy Scout Explorer Post in the Arts.

TAA meets monthly at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Knoxville. These meetings are free and open to anyone and include practical art demonstrations, discussions, and opportunities for individual artists to get involved in learning, community and shows. TAA welcomes guests to their rotating gallery and artist studio at the Emporium in Suite 106.

www.tnartists.org
Instagram at @tn_artists
www.facebook.com/TNArtistsAssociation

Emporium Center, 100 S. Gay Street, in downtown Knoxville. Hours: M-F 9-5 and Sat Aug 27, 10-1. Info: 865-523-7543, www.knoxalliance.com

First Friday Art Exhibit / August 5, 2022 5pm-9pm

Featuring four amazing artists: Ivan Soto, Alberto Palma, Alex Galo, and Ruben Salgado.

Casa HoLa is located inside the Emporium for the Arts on the bottom floor in Suite 112 at 100 S. Gay St., Knoxville, TN 37902. August hours: M-F 10-4

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @HoLaHoraLatina and Twitter @CasaHoLa for updates on upcoming exhibits.

Casa HoLa se ubica en la planta baja del edificio Emporium for the Arts, Suite 112, en 100 S. Gay St., Knoxville, TN 37902. Encuéntranos Facebook e Instagram @HoLaHoraLatina y en Twitter @CasaHoLa.