Friday, May 8, 2009

Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Crafts Community of Gatlinburg

http://www.gatlinburgcrafts.com/

One of the most unique treasures you will find in Galtinburg is "the Glades" aka The Arts & Crafts Community. For over 70 years, this area has drawn crafts men and women to live and create among other artists. It is now the largest enclave of independent artisans in North America!

This eight-mile loop, located just three miles from downtown Gatlingurg, is home to over 100 studios, galleries, shops and eateries. You will find candlemakers, basketweavers, woodcarvers, photographers, dulcimer makers, jewelers, painters, sculptors, potters, broom makers, quilters, candy makers, weavers, spinners....all the traditional mountain arts, and some less traditional. The beauty of the place is that this is where the artists live and work, so many are on site as you visit. You can watch them work, talk with them, purchase a piece and have it signed. Some artists even offer classes, demonstrations and private instruction.

This is a rich tradition in East Tennessee, deeply ingrained in the local culture. Many of these artists are from families that have lived and worked here for many generations, so they know and love this beautiful place!

The yellow trolley runs from Gatlinburg to the Glades for only a one dollar fare. You may also like to drive, and there is plenty of free parking. The website link at the top of the article shows a map listing all the shops and galleries, as well as an alphabetical listing of all of the members shops, with phone numbers and websites.

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