UPDATE: the pandemic up-ended this project, and the Watauga Valley Art League decided to abandon this project. Disappointing news, but understandable.
Northeast Tennessee—home to part of the Appalachian Trail, several mountain ranges, rivers, gorges and pristine lakes—offers incessant inspiration. It’s no wonder a strong community of artists and writers choose to reside and create their art in the region.
I recently met member artists at a general meeting of the Watauga Valley Art League and was delighted to discover this active group of creative people. The league is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
After the meeting, I met with several artists to discuss a new collaborative project intended to produce a unique publication. I left with a nice assignment: I’ll write two or three poems that will be paired with artists’ paintings. Several members of the Poetry Society of Tennessee Northeast Chapter will participate in this project.
The publication will not only honor the Watauga Valley Art League’s 50th anniversary but will also highlight creative arts in our region. It is expected to be released in late 2020.