When and where do you go to see the work of talented artists?  During Valley Fest 2025, Dunlap, Tennessee.

What: Art & the Library Show 2025
Cost: Free Admission
When: Reception (Open to Everyone)
May 1 6-8pm CT
May 2 11am-6pm CT,
May 3 11am-6pm CT, May 4 noon-5pm CT

Where: 103 Heard Street, Dunlap, Tennessee (Sequatchie County Fairgrounds)

The Sequatchie County Friends of the Library sponsors the show.  Each year on Thursday evening, the Friends host a wonderful reception, which is free and open to the public.  Visitors can meet the artists and talk to them about their work and enjoy delicious refreshments.

Every artist has a story, and beside each work is biographic information.  Visitors to the show can read about the artist, and how he or she became an artist, as well as see what the artist has produced.

“This year we expect between 50 and 60 artists to participate.  The work is varied and diverse.  For example, one artist creates kaleidoscopes with beautiful arrangements which appear almost magically.  What is best about the show is it celebrates local artists and encourages visitors to create art of their own.  Sometimes there are big surprises for visitors.  Last year Steve McBryar, a People’s Choice artist in 2023, displayed a 600-pound bed he carved for a grandchild. On each of the four bedposts he carved a different animal figure.  Two years before an artist named Sam Vose displayed a larger than life sized sculpture of a woman made from car hoods,” says Linda Green Johnson, the art show committee chair.

“Artists want people to view their work and appreciate the opportunity to show their friends, family, and neighbors what they can do.  Visitors have a relaxing experience viewing the works and appreciating the way the artists communicated their ideas and experiences,” adds Linda.  “Please plan to come and share this activity with us.”

As a teaser, enjoy these charming works:  the Winsome Frog by Kimberley Peters; Paraglider over the Sequatchie Valley by Brad Minton; and Delilah Haman’s Family Picnic.  The other photograph shows visitors enjoying last year’s reception.