Local artists named People's Choice of 2024

Local artists from across East Tennessee contributed to an annual art show hosted by the Art Guild of Tellico Village last weekend.

Five artists were recognized as the People’s Choice winners at Sunday’s closing ceremony in the Community Church at Tellico Village.

VARIOUS MEDIUMS

Artists submitted pieces of various types of mediums — some choosing types of painting, while others submitted homemade baskets and pottery.

Eighty-nine artists contributed to the collection with more than 344 pieces submitted. Some were available for purchase.

All 1,700 visitors over the weekend were given the opportunity to vote for their three favorite art pieces and from that five prize packages were awarded.

THE WINNERS ARE

This year’s winners are Deb Akins: “Ode To Iris” ( Art Quilt); Judy Lavoie: “Perfectionist” (Scratchboard) and “The Bearded Fiddler” (Watercolor); Sally McCain: “A Well Deserved Break” (Oil); Dennis Sabo: “Scarlett Whispers” (Photography); Ron Williams: “Sunrise Over Spring Flowers” (Photography).

All winners received a $100 gift certificate from Jerry’s Artarama of Knoxville, a $50 gift certificate from Backdoor Gallery Framing in Lenoir City, a 2025 Art Guild membership sponsored by Sirrabelle Jewelry & Gifts in Tellico Village, and blue ribbons sponsored by Preferred Pharmacy in Tellico Village.

Art Guild President Donna Hart said although the event takes a lot of effort to put on, being among other artists is where she finds the most happiness.

“It’s a beautiful show,” she said. “Look how much talent is in the Village. It’s really, really beautiful.

“They’ve worked hard. They’ve tried all kinds of new mediums and classes, and it’s fun to see the end result — it’s really beautiful.”

WORK (AND PLAY)

Hart has always come back to art as her happy place. When she was a child, growing up in Upstate New York, entertaining herself was finding new places to paint.

Her parents always encouraged her to learn new things to keep herself busy, and she naturally gravitated toward her creative side.

As an adult, she has created a balance of work and creativity. She said she works three days a week, so she can spend the rest of her time painting plein air with her girl friends, taking classes and seeing the variety of artists around East Tennessee.

“There’s always all kinds of new things to try — what a blast!” Hart said, referring to the Art Guild. “… It’s my delight now that I work three days a week, and the rest of the week I can play.”

Hart submitted some photography pieces and paintings in the show.

Guests throughout the weekend were able to admire the submitted pieces of artwork or watch art demonstrations, hosted by Art Guild members.

Art Guild Past President Perry Flanagan said the entire weekend — including planning, preparing and hosting — was only made possible by volunteers. Local musicians volunteered their time to add to the atmosphere of the art show, while others volunteered to set up, greet guests or take down the exhibit.

“It’s a remarkable accomplishment of our volunteers to make this community celebration of art come to life,” Flanagan said.

For more information on the Art Guild of Tellico Village by either joining or attending a class, visit tellicoartguild.com.