Dogwood Arts Set to Kick-Off Month-Long Celebration of Region’s Art, Culture, and Natural Beauty
The first day of spring is near, which means Dogwood Arts – a 56-year-old tradition and institution in Knoxville – is gearing up for its annual celebration with a number of exciting events and activities throughout the month of April.
“Art, culture, and natural beauty take center stage during the month of April throughout East Tennessee ” said Tom Cervone, Executive Director. “And Dogwood Arts (once again) is pleased and proud to shine the spotlight on and create the itinerary for your journey to experience every moment. Happy Spring from all of us at Dogwood Arts!”
This year, Dogwood Arts will feature more than 15 events throughout April for residents and visitors to experience, from local art exhibits and open gardens to live music and performances. The celebration will kick-off on April 1st, First Friday, at the Opening of the Regional Fine Art Exhibition at The Emporium Center in downtown Knoxville, and concludes with the Dogwood Arts Festival on Market Square on April 29-May 1, which has been a staple Knoxville event since 1961.
Regional Fine Art Exhibition
April 1-29, 2016: A dynamic survey of diverse art encompassing all styles and genres from both emerging and established artists from a seven stage region selected by juror, Nandini Makrandi, chief curator at the Hunter Museum of Art in Chattanooga. Emporium Center for the Arts – 100 South Gay Street
Art in Public Places
April 1, 2016-March 10, 2017: A world-class visual arts exhibition of large-scale outdoor sculpture which enliven downtown Knoxville, the McGhee Tyson Airport and Oak Ridge. Sculpture artist Isaac Duncan III, a Brooklyn, New York native who currently resides in Chattanooga, Tennessee served as the Juror for the 2016-2017 exhibition. #AIPP
A Very Special Arts Festival
April 6, 2016: A Very Special Arts Festival is a no limits celebration of visual and performing arts by exceptional Knox County school-aged students. The event is not a competition, but an event that provides an opportunity for students with disabilities to share their talents, works of art, and accomplishments. West High School – 3300 Sutherland Avenue
Synergy: East Tennessee Art Educator & Student Exhibitions
April 7-22, 2016: The Synergy Exhibitions feature the creative work of gifted art students from elementary, middle and high schools alongside their educators representing the public schools and private academies of East Tennessee. Clayton Center for the Arts – 502 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, 37804
Rhythm N’ Blooms
April 8-10, 2016: With the stages set exclusively along downtown Knoxville’s historic Old City, Rhythm N’ Blooms showcases the best of roots music plus the hottest up-and-coming acts ranging from your favorite indie rockers to iconic Americana acts to soul and hip-hop. *Ticket Required. #RnBKnox
Chalk Walk
April 9, 2016: See the sidewalks throughout Market Square and Krutch Park come alive as they become the canvas for artists of all ages and experience at this fan favorite Knoxville event.
Bikes & Blooms
April 9 & 10, 2016: Bikes & Blooms riders will enjoy the colorful displays of our native dogwood tress from your bicycle seat! North and Southbound 8-mile guided rides, led by and leaving from Tennessee Valley Bicycles, allow riders to enjoy Knoxville’s natural beauty the lean, green way.
Dogwood Luncheon
April 15, 2016: The Dogwood Luncheon is an invitation-only event kicking off the opening of the Dogwood Trails and Open Gardens. The event will take place Friday, April 15 at the Holston Hills Country Club.
Artitude
April 15, 2016: A celebration of art, courage and survivorship benefiting the Cancer Support Community and Dogwood Arts. *Ticket Required. Cherokee Mills, 2200 Sutherland Avenue
Dogwood Trails, Open Gardens, and Camera Sites
April 15-May 1, 2016: Explore more than 60 miles of trails, open gardens, and camera site sites as you enjoy a walk, bike, or drive the time honored tradition of the Dogwood Trails and Open Gardens. Holston Hills is the 2016 Featured Trail.
Dogwood Art DeTour
April 16 & 17, 2016: Dogwood Art DeTour gives the public a glimpse into the creative process as local artists invite you into their working studios.
Dogwood Arts Featured Gardens
April 23 & 24, 2016: Select homes with distinguished and remarkable gardens open their grounds to the public for one weekend only.
Hikes & Blooms
April 23 & 24, 2016: Whether on a greenway through a historic park or on a natural trail through the woods, you will observe historic relics and beautiful wildflowers among the dogwood trees on these easy, three-mile hikes. The interpretive hikes will highlight interesting facts, features, and flora about the unique locations.
Walking Trails
Open Daily, Dawn to Dusk: Focusing on the idea of stepping out into our community, the trails are at least one-mile in length, and folks are encouraged to walk, run or bike these trails. Visit dogwoodarts.com to learn how you can earn a limited edition Covenant Health Dogwood Patch on these Walking Trails!
Art Slam
April 30, 2016: Experience a live art competition and silent auction showcasing Knoxville’s up and coming artists at the Dogwood Arts Festival.
Dogwood Arts Festival on Market Square
April 29-May 1, 2016: A Knoxville tradition, the Dogwood Arts Festival on Market Square is a lively street fair showcasing the juried artwork of local and national artisans. Live entertainment around every corner, from street performers to three entertainment stages – a main stage, a pop-up stage and children’s stage- and culinary arts demonstrations and tastings. #DAFKnox