Great Smoky Mountains National Park welcomed this year’s lineup of artists-in-residence, whose creativity and passion will help visitors experience the Smokies in new and inspiring ways. Each month from June through November, a new artist will join the park and lead hands-on programs which invite visitors to explore the park through art shaped by its landscapes, history and natural wonders.
These free, monthly programs offer opportunities to connect with both the Smokies and the artists who find inspiration there. In addition to onsite programs at park visitor centers, each artist will offer a free lunchtime presentation at the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts auditorium in Gatlinburg. All are welcome to attend, learn about each artist’s creative process and discover the unique mediums they bring to the residency.
This year’s artists-in-residence bring a wide range of creative backgrounds to the Smokies, with Saturday visitor engagement programs offered monthly from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at either Sugarlands or Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
Here’s the schedule:
• June: Lauren Cason, Santa Fe, New Mexico
Dulcimerist, gouache painter, teacher and creative technologist
June 20 at Sugarlands Visitor Center and June 27 at Oconaluftee Visitor Center
• July: Tanya Qu, Durham, North Carolina
Abstract painter, punk musician and graphic designer
July 18 at Sugarlands Visitor Center and July 25 at Oconaluftee Visitor Center
• August: Amber Sparkle, St. Petersburg, Florida
Acrylic painter, muralist and arts event planner
Aug. 22 at Sugarlands Visitor Center and Aug. 29 at Oconaluftee Visitor Center
• September: Robert Palmerton, Saline, Michigan
Pastel and oil painter specializing in plein air landscapes
Sept. 19 at Sugarlands Visitor Center and Sept. 26 at Oconaluftee Visitor Center
• October: Jenna Marie Kesgen, Asheville, North Carolina
Oil and acrylic painter, muralist and environmental educator
Oct. 17 at Sugarlands Visitor Center and Oct. 24 at Oconaluftee Visitor Center
• November: Christopher “Chappy” Chaput, Nashville, Tennessee
Composer, music director and multimedia artist
Nov. 21 at Sugarlands Visitor Center and Nov. 28 at Oconaluftee Visitor Center