Sending Summer out with a bang!Silent Auction Bids for our FCAG Art Scholarship Fundraiser goes thru Sept 17th! Sidewalk Chart Art Event Kids & Adults Weather permitting Saturday Sept. 16th 11-5 & Sunday Sept. 17th 12-5 Three great art shows! * "Where Did Summer Go" Community Show thru Oct. 1st * * HAPI. Healing Arts Project Show thru Oct. 1st * * David Kleman Art Show If you just need a place to sit for a moment, the garden is a great place to just sit a spell.
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Christmas In July Workshops by Carol VandenboschArt with a Passion and a Purpose.... |
The hard reality is that food insecurity affects 1 in 8 Middle and West Tennesseans. According to Second Harvest’s 2021-2022 Annual Report, the food bank supplied 364,900 meals to 6,300 food-insecure individuals, including 1,540 children, in Franklin County. I am committed to helping feed those with food insecurity in our area. |
Musa Suber is the young man with the fabulous animal artwork.
And Betty Mattews is showing off her stunning macrame. PBoth are residents of Cowan TN.
Members Show
MarthaLee McCarthy photographic show “52Frames will open July 6th at the Artisan Depot in Cowan TN sponsored by the Franklin County Arts Guild. McCarthy has enjoyed capturing life’s images since she was young. Inspired by her dad’s love of photography, she signed up for a darkroom class as a sophomore in college and became hooked on what would turn out to be a life-long passion.....Read More
We are excited with the news that our garden at the gallery has become an official Monarch Way Station!
Plus a New Member Art Show, Yearning and Yielding to the Green - some art, by Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero
Our current Community Show "Being a Flower is a Big Responsibility"
Calling ALL Artisit: A list of 2023/2024 Community Shows and dates!
A special event became a part of the Third Friday Reception for three arts shows at the Artisan Depot Gallery last week. Mark Ledbetter, the Mayor of Cowan, announced that the Pollinator Garden just outside the gallery featuring its “Art Lives Here” mural by Karen Ingle is now certified and registered as an official Monarch Way Station by the Monarch Watch Organization (www.monarchwatch.org). The event also included music by Cara Kitzrow.
The Pollinator Garden was originally established by long time gardener Alida Morgan who lead the rehabilitation and planting of the grounds around a pass-through pedestrian walkway between buildings in Cowan. Over time it has become a pollinator haven for many species of bees, friendly wasps, and butterflies. After two years of Monarch butterflies sightings the gardeners (also gallery artists) decided to create a Monarch Way Station. Any garden can become a waystation by taking some very deliberate steps to support monarchs. Monarchs require plants that supply nectar for the adults as well as plants for laying eggs and nurturing monarch caterpillars through spring and summer. Adult monarch are not particular about nectar sources. High-energy nectar sources include: almond verbena, basil, bee balm, echinacea, fennel and many more. But monarch butterflies require the milkweed plant to lay eggs and to feed the resulting butterflies.
Luckily Tennessee has 14 native species of milkweed! Additionally, to maintain the best plants for monarchs, the garden needs to have at least 6 hours of sun each day and soil should be low clay and have good drainage. Plantings need to be close together in places to provide shelter from predators and the elements. The garden must also have places for butterflies to rest, to drink, and to dry their wings. The Pollinator Garden has a butterfly house, a number of ceramic tower sculptures that provide places for them to get water and to rest. The garden also has a herb garden to serve as a place for egg laying and caterpillar feeding for other butterflies. And no insecticides!
The Monarch Watch provides free milkweed seeds and assistance in creating monarch habitats for schools and educational non-profits (see website above). Our communities are invited to take a break in the Pollinator Garden and enjoy one of nature’s most dazzling creations.
The Pollinator Garden was originally established by long time gardener Alida Morgan who lead the rehabilitation and planting of the grounds around a pass-through pedestrian walkway between buildings in Cowan. Over time it has become a pollinator haven for many species of bees, friendly wasps, and butterflies. After two years of Monarch butterflies sightings the gardeners (also gallery artists) decided to create a Monarch Way Station. Any garden can become a waystation by taking some very deliberate steps to support monarchs. Monarchs require plants that supply nectar for the adults as well as plants for laying eggs and nurturing monarch caterpillars through spring and summer. Adult monarch are not particular about nectar sources. High-energy nectar sources include: almond verbena, basil, bee balm, echinacea, fennel and many more. But monarch butterflies require the milkweed plant to lay eggs and to feed the resulting butterflies.
Luckily Tennessee has 14 native species of milkweed! Additionally, to maintain the best plants for monarchs, the garden needs to have at least 6 hours of sun each day and soil should be low clay and have good drainage. Plantings need to be close together in places to provide shelter from predators and the elements. The garden must also have places for butterflies to rest, to drink, and to dry their wings. The Pollinator Garden has a butterfly house, a number of ceramic tower sculptures that provide places for them to get water and to rest. The garden also has a herb garden to serve as a place for egg laying and caterpillar feeding for other butterflies. And no insecticides!
The Monarch Watch provides free milkweed seeds and assistance in creating monarch habitats for schools and educational non-profits (see website above). Our communities are invited to take a break in the Pollinator Garden and enjoy one of nature’s most dazzling creations.
Yearning and Yielding to the Green -some art,
by Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero
“The process of creating art allows me to play with yielding and yearning. One of my life’s lessons has been to yield and let go. I am growing into a new kind of yielding. One of a releasing into creation and connection, the Green. This is my yearning.
More important than the finished pieces, is the gladness creating art gives me. I invite you to share in my joy and I am full of gratitude for your presence.”
Tanya has been a life-long creative and artsy dabbler. She thrives surrounded by the natural world and the diverse human community. Tanya weaves images from nature and feminine figures into her art. Recently, her dog, Irie, has also become a subject. Primarily, Tanya paints with acrylics and in this show she experiments with mixed media.
More important than the finished pieces, is the gladness creating art gives me. I invite you to share in my joy and I am full of gratitude for your presence.”
Tanya has been a life-long creative and artsy dabbler. She thrives surrounded by the natural world and the diverse human community. Tanya weaves images from nature and feminine figures into her art. Recently, her dog, Irie, has also become a subject. Primarily, Tanya paints with acrylics and in this show she experiments with mixed media.
Being a Flower is a Big Responsibility
Community Shows 2023/2024
The Franklin County Arts Guild (FCAG) is seeking artists, emerging artists, and amateur artists to participate in its Public Art Community Shows at the Artisan Depot in Cowan, TN. The FCAG invites original contributions from Franklin County artists of all ages in any media for inclusion in its Community Arts Shows. If you or you want to help a child to submit work for a community show submit work at the Artisan Depot on published intake dates during gallery operating hours (12-5 pm Thursday-Sunday). Each artist is free to interpret the theme of each show as they wish. Use all your creativity and inspiration!
Show Schedule 2023/2024
April 6-May 28 "Being a Flower Is a Big Responsibility" Show: April 6-May 29
Reception: Friday 21st 5:00-7:00
June/July Something for Children
Art Intake May 25-28 Show: June 1-July 30
Reception: Friday, June 16, 5:00-7:00 pm
Aug/Sept "Where did summer go"
Art Intake: July 27-30 Show: Aug 3- Oct 1
Reception: Friday, August 18, 5:00-7:00 pm
Oct/Nov "Something wicked this way comes"
Intake: Sept 28-Oct 1 Show: Oct 5- Nov 26
Reception: Friday Oct 20 5:00-7:00 pm
Dec/Jan "Winding down"
Intake: Nov 23-26 Show: Nov 30-Jan 28
Reception: Friday, Dec 15, 5:00-7:00 pm
Feb/March "Softly Stirring"
Intake:Jan 25-28 Show: Feb 1- March 31
Reception : Friday, Feb 16, 5:00-7:00 pm
April/May "The root of it all"
Intake: March 28-31 Show: April 4- June 2
Reception: Friday, April 19, 5:00-7:00 pm
June/July " All things you can ride on"
Intake: May 30-June 2 Show: June 6- July 28
Reception: Friday, June 21, 5:00-7:00 pm
The Franklin County Arts Guild (FCAG) is seeking artists, emerging artists, and amateur artists to participate in its Public Art Community Shows at the Artisan Depot in Cowan, TN. The FCAG invites original contributions from Franklin County artists of all ages in any media for inclusion in its Community Arts Shows. If you or you want to help a child to submit work for a community show submit work at the Artisan Depot on published intake dates during gallery operating hours (12-5 pm Thursday-Sunday). Each artist is free to interpret the theme of each show as they wish. Use all your creativity and inspiration!
Show Schedule 2023/2024
April 6-May 28 "Being a Flower Is a Big Responsibility" Show: April 6-May 29
Reception: Friday 21st 5:00-7:00
June/July Something for Children
Art Intake May 25-28 Show: June 1-July 30
Reception: Friday, June 16, 5:00-7:00 pm
Aug/Sept "Where did summer go"
Art Intake: July 27-30 Show: Aug 3- Oct 1
Reception: Friday, August 18, 5:00-7:00 pm
Oct/Nov "Something wicked this way comes"
Intake: Sept 28-Oct 1 Show: Oct 5- Nov 26
Reception: Friday Oct 20 5:00-7:00 pm
Dec/Jan "Winding down"
Intake: Nov 23-26 Show: Nov 30-Jan 28
Reception: Friday, Dec 15, 5:00-7:00 pm
Feb/March "Softly Stirring"
Intake:Jan 25-28 Show: Feb 1- March 31
Reception : Friday, Feb 16, 5:00-7:00 pm
April/May "The root of it all"
Intake: March 28-31 Show: April 4- June 2
Reception: Friday, April 19, 5:00-7:00 pm
June/July " All things you can ride on"
Intake: May 30-June 2 Show: June 6- July 28
Reception: Friday, June 21, 5:00-7:00 pm
Community Art Show
"Beertopia" all things beer!

Our March Community Show is in honor of our Arts and Ales event that is happening this year on March 28 at the historic Monterey Station in Cowan TN. We are looking for art that honors your taste for beer! It can be crafts or art you choose as long as it shows your love of beer! The show will run from March 5 - March 29 and the Reception will be March 20th. All art welcome! No fee to enter. Tickets for Arts and Ales
All Members Show "Recycle"

Love to recycle, reuse, re-purpose? We do too! And we want to see what you are making out of those recycled, reclaimed, reuse pieces of found goodies. Only requirement is that it must be a majority recycled items and you must be a member of Franklin County Arts Guild. Show will run from March 5 - April 26. Reception will be March 20th. All receptions will be on third Friday of each month.
Interested in becoming a member?
Interested in becoming a member?

SPECIAL Offer -VIP Tickets $40
- Early Bird Entrance. Party before the Party! Come in at 11:00 to sample a special beer and food pairing event hosted by a local chef.
- VIP gift bag with VIP Bling
- Bobbing for Beer (VIP Drawing- All VIPs win!)
Make people smile teach an art or craft class

I would like to invite you to consider teaching a workshop at the Artisan Gallery in Cowan, TN. The FCAG/Artisan Depot supports and promotes local artists and educators. We are located at 204 E. Cumberland Street, just down the mountain from Sewanee.
For the past several years we have offered a wide variety of workshops and we are excited to continue to provide a friendly and conveniently located space in lovely rural Franklin County, TN that offers the community a place to explore their creativity, from beginners to advanced.
The process for offering a workshop is simple:
1. Fill out the Workshop Proposal Form available online at www.franklincoarts.org/workshops. Email to franklincoarts@gmail.com, ATTN: Tanya.
2. Provide a couple of dates and times you would like to teach.
I will contact you to finalize details and answer questions and will then set up registration at the Franklin County Arts Guild Website Page.
Note: Teachers set their own rates for workshops, of which the Gallery receives 20%. Teachers are responsible for promoting their workshops. The FCAG assists in workshop promotion and student recruitment.
More information about the FCAG and teaching workshops can be found online at www.franklincoarts.org. If you have any questions or ideas about teaching a workshop and being part of art promotion in our community please contact me. Help us spread the word by passing along this email to someone who might be interested.
May your year be full of happy, creative exploration!
Best,
Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero
For the past several years we have offered a wide variety of workshops and we are excited to continue to provide a friendly and conveniently located space in lovely rural Franklin County, TN that offers the community a place to explore their creativity, from beginners to advanced.
The process for offering a workshop is simple:
1. Fill out the Workshop Proposal Form available online at www.franklincoarts.org/workshops. Email to franklincoarts@gmail.com, ATTN: Tanya.
2. Provide a couple of dates and times you would like to teach.
I will contact you to finalize details and answer questions and will then set up registration at the Franklin County Arts Guild Website Page.
Note: Teachers set their own rates for workshops, of which the Gallery receives 20%. Teachers are responsible for promoting their workshops. The FCAG assists in workshop promotion and student recruitment.
More information about the FCAG and teaching workshops can be found online at www.franklincoarts.org. If you have any questions or ideas about teaching a workshop and being part of art promotion in our community please contact me. Help us spread the word by passing along this email to someone who might be interested.
May your year be full of happy, creative exploration!
Best,
Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero
Mosaic Wall Hanging or Stepping Stone Beginners Class

This 2 part mosaic workshop will be held at the instructor's home: Instructor: Carol Vandenbosch
You can choose a date
Thursdays, February 13, 9am-3pm part 1 & Februay 20, 10am-noon part 2
OR
Saturdays, March 14, 9am-3pm part 1 & March 21, 10am-noon part 2
Class fee: $50 (online registration required)
Materials fee: $30 (to be paid directly to the instructor)
Workshop begins at 9 a.m. until midafternoon. It is suggested you bring a light lunch as we will work right through the noon hour until midafternoon. You will return for part 2, to grout your piece…this will just take an hour.
Participants will be able to select the project that interests them….wooden wall piece, with or without mirror or stepping stone. Basic techniques will be taught using different adhesives and materials.
This kind of work is the utmost in recycling since most of its materials are recycled pieces finding a second life in art. The end creation will be something to be treasured and admired, and very personal to each creator. All necessary materials will be provided, but participants are invited to bring any personal items they may wish to incorporate into their finished creation - broken dishes, costume jewelry, single tiles, shells, coins, small stones, beads, buttons, marbles, etc.
You can choose a date
Thursdays, February 13, 9am-3pm part 1 & Februay 20, 10am-noon part 2
OR
Saturdays, March 14, 9am-3pm part 1 & March 21, 10am-noon part 2
Class fee: $50 (online registration required)
Materials fee: $30 (to be paid directly to the instructor)
Workshop begins at 9 a.m. until midafternoon. It is suggested you bring a light lunch as we will work right through the noon hour until midafternoon. You will return for part 2, to grout your piece…this will just take an hour.
Participants will be able to select the project that interests them….wooden wall piece, with or without mirror or stepping stone. Basic techniques will be taught using different adhesives and materials.
This kind of work is the utmost in recycling since most of its materials are recycled pieces finding a second life in art. The end creation will be something to be treasured and admired, and very personal to each creator. All necessary materials will be provided, but participants are invited to bring any personal items they may wish to incorporate into their finished creation - broken dishes, costume jewelry, single tiles, shells, coins, small stones, beads, buttons, marbles, etc.

Get your art ready for the 2020 line up of our community shows. There is no fee for entering these shows, they are open to anyone in the community regardless of expertise, age, or media. We give you the theme you interpret that how you see it, bring it in on intake days and then invite your friends and family to the reception.
For more information: Call 931-313-5686 or
franklincoarts@gmail.com
For more information: Call 931-313-5686 or
franklincoarts@gmail.com
2020 Community Shows
ALL RECEPTIONS WILL BE THE 3RD FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED
Community: Big (Piece MUST be at least 24") | January 16 - February 2
Intake| January 6 - January 8 (between 10am-2pm) | Reception January 17
Beertopia | February 6 - March 29
Intake | January 30 - February 2 | Reception February 21
Earth Day | April 2 - May 31
Intake| March 26 - March 29 | Reception April 17
Rainbow Connection | June 4 - July 26
Intake | May 28 - - May 31 | Reception June 19
ALL RECEPTIONS WILL BE THE 3RD FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED
Community: Big (Piece MUST be at least 24") | January 16 - February 2
Intake| January 6 - January 8 (between 10am-2pm) | Reception January 17
Beertopia | February 6 - March 29
Intake | January 30 - February 2 | Reception February 21
Earth Day | April 2 - May 31
Intake| March 26 - March 29 | Reception April 17
Rainbow Connection | June 4 - July 26
Intake | May 28 - - May 31 | Reception June 19
Snow Village by Diane Lamb
Attention all Gallery Members
Studio Tour December 7th & 8th
This was a great sales opportunity for all of our Gallery members that had art in this sale last year. The one complaint was there wasn't as much there as in years past.
Bring everything to Pippa Browne's Studio by Friday between 1:00-2:00 and you must come and picked any left over art by 4:00 on Sunday afternoon or make arrangements to have it picked up. We will set up everything and we have volunteers to do the sells you just need to get it there. Everything must be labeled and priced. We appreciate all our artist and this is an opportunity for you as an artist to get your art out there! Let all your friends know about this!
Studio Tour December 7th & 8th
This was a great sales opportunity for all of our Gallery members that had art in this sale last year. The one complaint was there wasn't as much there as in years past.
Bring everything to Pippa Browne's Studio by Friday between 1:00-2:00 and you must come and picked any left over art by 4:00 on Sunday afternoon or make arrangements to have it picked up. We will set up everything and we have volunteers to do the sells you just need to get it there. Everything must be labeled and priced. We appreciate all our artist and this is an opportunity for you as an artist to get your art out there! Let all your friends know about this!

The dog days of summer are upon us! The long lazy hot days of summer will soon be a thing of the past and fall is very close even though the temperature didn't get that memo yet! Christmas will be here before we know it and as artists, it's time to get busy!
We have a new Student Art Show. The children chose between making a print or an etching of an adoptable animal at the Animal Habor.
The reception will be Friday, September 13th 3:00 - 5:00. There will be a donation jar for Animal Habor. So gather up the kids and the change jar and come on the Gallery and help support these budding artist and Animal Habor.
We have a new Student Art Show. The children chose between making a print or an etching of an adoptable animal at the Animal Habor.
The reception will be Friday, September 13th 3:00 - 5:00. There will be a donation jar for Animal Habor. So gather up the kids and the change jar and come on the Gallery and help support these budding artist and Animal Habor.

At 5:00-7:00 on that same day Friday, September 13th we will have the reception for a new members show. "Textures, Layers, and Beauty" by Artist Karen Smith Ingle, Emily May Ragland and Mary Beth Lockmiller.
Please come and celebrate this collection of art by these three beautiful and talented artist. There will be light refreshments served. Everyone is welcome. There will be wine served so parents will need to use discretion. The show will be up for your viewing pleasure from September 12th -October 27th.
Please come and celebrate this collection of art by these three beautiful and talented artist. There will be light refreshments served. Everyone is welcome. There will be wine served so parents will need to use discretion. The show will be up for your viewing pleasure from September 12th -October 27th.

Something most of us probably never think about is how uncomfortable it can be for people forced to sleep outdoors. Bedding materials get wet, and people get wet and cold. In the summer, pavement gets hot. These conditions can be dangerous for people who already struggle and may have health problems as well.
This past Friday at the reception for “Selves” art show seven mats were given to Pastor Marion Pope of the Journey Church in Winchester, TN. Others will be distributed to a homeless mission in Nashville by Harmony Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Winchester. Each mat comes with a prayer and a piece of artwork done as a community project at the gallery.
Joyce Adams and Pat Underwood expanded the efforts and refined the process after a dedicated group of ladies in the Belvidere Family & Community Education (FCE) group that meets at the Extension Office on Joyce St in Winchester started this project in their monthly meeting. They have been crocheting mats that can be used by anyone who sleeps outdoors. The mats are easy to make, lightweight and waterproof, and provide cushioning as well.
Joyce and Pat took this on as a weekly project and started an ongoing workshop to create more mats. In conjunction with Art Wednesday at the Artisan Depot Gallery in Cowan, TN which is a function of the Franklin County Arts Guild where anyone can bring a project to work on as a group.
In talking with Pastor Pope, he told the story of one man that had received one of the earlier made mats. Because of illness, this man lost his job, then his home and was sleeping under a carport in town. It was during the time that parts of Franklin Co received about 10 inches of rain. He received one of the badly needed mats, and it helped him stay dry. During that time, the pastor and others at the church helped this man get his disability check started, and they were able to get him into an apartment. Thank you, Journey Church! And thanks to all the ladies that help create these mats!
There are several ways you can participate in this worthy cause. You can come to Art Wednesday at the Artisan Depot Gallery in Cowan, 10:00 - 12:00. Everyone welcome. (Even if you can"t crochet) You can donate your plastic bags. They must be clean and dry. It takes 100 bags to make a mat. (That’s a lot of bags that are not going into a landfill, and they get a second use.) Can’t crochet? Joyce or Pat will be there to instruct you. You will need a size Q crochet hook and scissors.
You can contact Joyce Adams about the Sleeping Mats Project at 931-962-0280
You can contact Journey Church 931-691-2462. They also have a Facebook page www.facebook.com/TheJourneyWinchester/
For more information about Art Wednesday call and leave a message (931) 313-5686
For more information about FCE contact, Pat Richards call and leave a message 931-691-1817 or email patswearablesandart@gmail.com
The Artisan Depot is located at 204 Cumberland Street East in Cowan, Tennessee. For questions about the Franklin County Arts Guild, the gallery, or this project, please click here to email us.
If you do not have ready access to email you may vote by ballot at the Artisan Depot. Ballot and a ballot box will be available in the gallery at the sales desk beginning June 20th. Both the Survey Monkey link and the ballots will be removed July 1, 2019

A NEW YEAR BEGINS!
It is time to select a slate of officers for the Franklin County Arts Guild for the 2019-2020 year. Officers will take office in July and will preside at the first general membership meeting on July 23rd. It is important that you participate in this process. This is the first time we are trying an online process. But to be valid we must have good participation.
The slate of officers was chosen and approved by the nomination committee. We also solicited nomination from the general membership. The slate is as follows:
President: Patty Priest
Vice President: multi individuals appointed by president for specific tasks
Secretary: Margie Gallagher
Treasurer: Denise Miller
Public Relations: Pat Richards
Approval of this slate of officers needs to be completed by June 30th, midnight. You will receive a Survey Monkey link by email within the next few days. You can log onto the Survey Monkey site by clicking on the link and then you just need to select approve or not approve. Please so this as soon as possible after you get the email.
If you do not have ready access to email you may vote by ballot at the gallery at the Artisan Depot. Ballot and a ballot box will be available in the gallery at the sales desk beginning June 20th. Both the Survey Monkey link and the ballots will be removed July 1, 2019
It is time to select a slate of officers for the Franklin County Arts Guild for the 2019-2020 year. Officers will take office in July and will preside at the first general membership meeting on July 23rd. It is important that you participate in this process. This is the first time we are trying an online process. But to be valid we must have good participation.
The slate of officers was chosen and approved by the nomination committee. We also solicited nomination from the general membership. The slate is as follows:
President: Patty Priest
Vice President: multi individuals appointed by president for specific tasks
Secretary: Margie Gallagher
Treasurer: Denise Miller
Public Relations: Pat Richards
Approval of this slate of officers needs to be completed by June 30th, midnight. You will receive a Survey Monkey link by email within the next few days. You can log onto the Survey Monkey site by clicking on the link and then you just need to select approve or not approve. Please so this as soon as possible after you get the email.
If you do not have ready access to email you may vote by ballot at the gallery at the Artisan Depot. Ballot and a ballot box will be available in the gallery at the sales desk beginning June 20th. Both the Survey Monkey link and the ballots will be removed July 1, 2019

There is something new and exciting happening at the Artisan Depot in Cowan, TN this summer!
The Franklin County Arts Guild is hosting a summer Art Camp for Kids the week of June 24-28, 2019 and there are still spots available!
This camp is geared towards kids ages 8-12 who are interested in getting their creative juices flowing and having fun! The theme for the week is Natural World, Natural Me. Campers will develop observation and imagination skills while learning art techniques that include papier-mache, drawing, painting, printing, mixed media and weaving. To celebrate our time together at camp there will be a Camper Art Show on the last day for families and friends to come support the kids and see their work.
Two local artist/art educators will be leading this camp, Pippa Browne and Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero.
Pippa Browne is a Fine Artist who has exhibited paintings nationally and internationally for the last 30 years. She taught Art to Middle and High schoolers in Zimbabwe for 10 years and, since coming to the USA, she has designed and lead creativity workshops for adults and young people at schools, libraries, galleries and festivals.
Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero is a creative artist who has taught art to young children through adults in formal classes, workshops and camps over the past 20 yrs. In addition to having fun, her desire is to encourage kids to find joy and meaning in their own creative expression.
Our hope is to connect with area youth and families and encourage art and creative expression in our community! Please help us share this information!
Camp details are as follows:
Who: Kids ages 8-12
When: June 24-28, 9am-12noon
Where: Artisan Depot, 204 Cumberland St. E, Cowan, TN 37318
Click here for registration.
The Franklin County Arts Guild is hosting a summer Art Camp for Kids the week of June 24-28, 2019 and there are still spots available!
This camp is geared towards kids ages 8-12 who are interested in getting their creative juices flowing and having fun! The theme for the week is Natural World, Natural Me. Campers will develop observation and imagination skills while learning art techniques that include papier-mache, drawing, painting, printing, mixed media and weaving. To celebrate our time together at camp there will be a Camper Art Show on the last day for families and friends to come support the kids and see their work.
Two local artist/art educators will be leading this camp, Pippa Browne and Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero.
Pippa Browne is a Fine Artist who has exhibited paintings nationally and internationally for the last 30 years. She taught Art to Middle and High schoolers in Zimbabwe for 10 years and, since coming to the USA, she has designed and lead creativity workshops for adults and young people at schools, libraries, galleries and festivals.
Tanya Ingvoldstad Otero is a creative artist who has taught art to young children through adults in formal classes, workshops and camps over the past 20 yrs. In addition to having fun, her desire is to encourage kids to find joy and meaning in their own creative expression.
Our hope is to connect with area youth and families and encourage art and creative expression in our community! Please help us share this information!
Camp details are as follows:
Who: Kids ages 8-12
When: June 24-28, 9am-12noon
Where: Artisan Depot, 204 Cumberland St. E, Cowan, TN 37318
Click here for registration.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Bags may be dropped off at the Artisan Depot during regular hours: Thursday, Friday, Sunday Noon to 5:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Meetings for this project will take place at the Artisan Depot on Wednesdays beginning in May at 10:00 am.
Something most of us probably never think about is how uncomfortable it can be for people forced to sleep outdoors. Bedding materials get wet, and people get wet and cold. In the summer, pavement gets really hot. These conditions can be dangerous for people who already struggle and may have health problems, too.
A dedicated group of ladies at the Franklin County Arts Guild have been crocheting mats that can be used by anyone who sleeps outdoors. The mats are made from “plarn,” plastic yarn made from plastic grocery bags. The mats are easy to make, are lightweight and waterproof, and provide cushioning as well.
To expand their efforts, the Franklin County Arts Guild group is starting an ongoing workshop to create more mats. The community at large is invited to participate, and there is no charge for the workshop.
Something most of us probably never think about is how uncomfortable it can be for people forced to sleep outdoors. Bedding materials get wet, and people get wet and cold. In the summer, pavement gets really hot. These conditions can be dangerous for people who already struggle and may have health problems, too.
A dedicated group of ladies at the Franklin County Arts Guild have been crocheting mats that can be used by anyone who sleeps outdoors. The mats are made from “plarn,” plastic yarn made from plastic grocery bags. The mats are easy to make, are lightweight and waterproof, and provide cushioning as well.
To expand their efforts, the Franklin County Arts Guild group is starting an ongoing workshop to create more mats. The community at large is invited to participate, and there is no charge for the workshop.

APRIL
Gathering Materials – During the month of April, the Artisan Depot (the gallery of the Franklin County Arts Guild) is gathering plastic grocery bags of the type given at Kroger, Walmart and Dollar General. The bags should be clean and dry, right-side out, sorted by color, folded neatly (to be as flat as possible), and placed in the yellow recycle container located under the Intake Table in the Art Supply Corner at the Artisan Depot. All who plan to participate should bring approximately 100 bags to be used for their sleep mat and, if you crochet, a size Q (15.75 mm) crochet hook, scissors or a cutting board, a straight edge and rotary cutter for construction of their sleep mat.
MAY and forward…
Beginning Wednesday, May 1, there will be a series of “mini-workshops” at the Artisan Depot to begin constructing the sleep mats. It is highly recommended that anyone who would like to participate in the project attend the first sessions in May. These sessions will run concurrent with the Guild’s “Art Wednesday” group, also open to anyone. Everyone will learn to do the following steps:
In addition to being very useful to homeless citizens, making the mats takes plastic grocery bags out of the waste stream. The odd pieces (like handles) left over from the plarn-making process will be taken back to Wal Mart for recycling.
If you’d like to participate in this project, please contact Joyce Adams at 931-962-0280, a volunteer at the Franklin County Arts Guild and The Artisan Depot Gallery & Gift Shop. There is plenty to do for everyone. Even if you don't crochet, you can collect bags, make "plarn," etc.
Gathering Materials – During the month of April, the Artisan Depot (the gallery of the Franklin County Arts Guild) is gathering plastic grocery bags of the type given at Kroger, Walmart and Dollar General. The bags should be clean and dry, right-side out, sorted by color, folded neatly (to be as flat as possible), and placed in the yellow recycle container located under the Intake Table in the Art Supply Corner at the Artisan Depot. All who plan to participate should bring approximately 100 bags to be used for their sleep mat and, if you crochet, a size Q (15.75 mm) crochet hook, scissors or a cutting board, a straight edge and rotary cutter for construction of their sleep mat.
MAY and forward…
Beginning Wednesday, May 1, there will be a series of “mini-workshops” at the Artisan Depot to begin constructing the sleep mats. It is highly recommended that anyone who would like to participate in the project attend the first sessions in May. These sessions will run concurrent with the Guild’s “Art Wednesday” group, also open to anyone. Everyone will learn to do the following steps:
- Straightening the bags
- Cutting the bags into strips
- Looping the strips to make “plarn”
- Crocheting the mats with a single crochet stitch.
In addition to being very useful to homeless citizens, making the mats takes plastic grocery bags out of the waste stream. The odd pieces (like handles) left over from the plarn-making process will be taken back to Wal Mart for recycling.
If you’d like to participate in this project, please contact Joyce Adams at 931-962-0280, a volunteer at the Franklin County Arts Guild and The Artisan Depot Gallery & Gift Shop. There is plenty to do for everyone. Even if you don't crochet, you can collect bags, make "plarn," etc.
The Artisan Depot is located at 204 Cumberland Street East in Cowan, Tennessee. For questions about the Franklin County Arts Guild, the gallery, or this project, please click here to email us.

“Between the Rocks” Exhibit
April 18 through June 2, 2019
at the Artisan Depot
Opening Reception:
Friday, April 26, 5:00 to 7:00 pm
Andy Gay has spent most of his life in southern middle Tennessee where he has been fascinated by the natural beauty of wildflowers, rocks, and woodlands. Now in retirement, he has been free to again pursue his passion for watercolor. He has twice had paintings in the Tennessee All State Exhibit at the Parthenon Gallery in Nashville, an exhibit of a judged competition sponsored by the Watkins Institute.
Although Andy began with acrylics and some pastel chalks, he long ago gravitated to transparent watercolor. Having utilized digital media in local church publications and web sites, he continues to use digital photography for design and reference. But it is the unique capacity of watercolor – to surprise and reveal – that draws him.
All the work in the "Between the Rocks" exhibit seeks to recreate some aspect of the experience of places Andy Gay has been. Two such places where he spends a lot of time are the trails of the South Cumberland, especially Shakerag Hollow in Sewanee and Ghost Ranch in northern New Mexico. Whatever the setting, he looks between the rocks, and all the other “between” places where the great and the tiny, the hard and the delicate, co-exist in beauty, illumined by the multivarious moments of changing light and texture.
April 18 through June 2, 2019
at the Artisan Depot
Opening Reception:
Friday, April 26, 5:00 to 7:00 pm
Andy Gay has spent most of his life in southern middle Tennessee where he has been fascinated by the natural beauty of wildflowers, rocks, and woodlands. Now in retirement, he has been free to again pursue his passion for watercolor. He has twice had paintings in the Tennessee All State Exhibit at the Parthenon Gallery in Nashville, an exhibit of a judged competition sponsored by the Watkins Institute.
Although Andy began with acrylics and some pastel chalks, he long ago gravitated to transparent watercolor. Having utilized digital media in local church publications and web sites, he continues to use digital photography for design and reference. But it is the unique capacity of watercolor – to surprise and reveal – that draws him.
All the work in the "Between the Rocks" exhibit seeks to recreate some aspect of the experience of places Andy Gay has been. Two such places where he spends a lot of time are the trails of the South Cumberland, especially Shakerag Hollow in Sewanee and Ghost Ranch in northern New Mexico. Whatever the setting, he looks between the rocks, and all the other “between” places where the great and the tiny, the hard and the delicate, co-exist in beauty, illumined by the multivarious moments of changing light and texture.

Andy Gay is a Tennessee native, living and working in Sewanee, Tennessee. The public is invited to the opening exhibit of his show at the Artisan Depot. The gallery is located at 204 Cumberland Street East in Cowan, Tennessee. For more information about the Franklin County Arts Guild and the Artisan Depot, click here.

Once again, the community turned out in force to support the arts in Franklin County and beyond. Over 300 people attended Arts & Ales 2019, making it a big success. Proceeds from Arts & Ales continue to fund the Franklin County Arts Guild's scholarship program, the Artisan Depot gallery space for local artists, and art workshops for the community.
Nancy Wallace, president of the Guild, said, "We appreciate the excellent coverage of the event given by our hard-working local media," including The Tullahoma News | Sewanee News | The Herald Chronicle | Busy Bee Trader | Chattanooga Free Press | LightTUBe of Tullahoma | Thunder Radio of Manchester | WZYX Radio, Cowan | VisitCowan.com
Food vendors for Arts & Ales made the event a tasty one: Floyd's Farm Food Truck of Fayetteville, TN | Sweet Ellie's of Cowan, TN | Dirty South BBQ
Nancy Wallace, president of the Guild, said, "We appreciate the excellent coverage of the event given by our hard-working local media," including The Tullahoma News | Sewanee News | The Herald Chronicle | Busy Bee Trader | Chattanooga Free Press | LightTUBe of Tullahoma | Thunder Radio of Manchester | WZYX Radio, Cowan | VisitCowan.com
Food vendors for Arts & Ales made the event a tasty one: Floyd's Farm Food Truck of Fayetteville, TN | Sweet Ellie's of Cowan, TN | Dirty South BBQ
Scenes from Arts & Ales 2019
She continued, "The Guild is made up of members who give their time, creativity, and financial resources, not only to Arts & Ales but to the many other projects that make the arts an enriching part of life in our community."
The Guild would like to give a special shout-out to the following individuals for their work at Arts & Ales:
Pippa Browne, Artisan Depot gallery coordinator
Margie Gallagher, former gallery goordinator and current Guild secretary
Joe Butler, Guild vice president
Denise Miller, Guild Treasurer
Patricia Richards, public relations and social media
Kim Phillips, website and email marketing
Dwain Adams, craft beer server
Mary Ann Morrison, queen of efficient check-out for art sales
Tanya Otero, newest Guild member and check-out helper
Mark Ledbetter, Mr. Arts & Ales, for all of the little and big things he does to put the event together
Thank you to all the talented artists that did demonstrations during the event:
Ken Gould, woodworking
Frances Perea, fairy mob art
Denise Miller, acrylic painting
Melanie Villegas, painting on F\furniture and other neat things
Pat Richards, hollow log making
Margie Gallagher, book making and creating fairy housing with natural materials
Joyce Adams, crocheting bags and moisture mats to be donated and used by the homeless of Franklin County
There were also many people who jumped in and volunteered to help with: setting up tables and chairs and, afterward, cleaning up, sweeping, mopping floors, cleaning bathrooms, and sorting recyclables.
Thanks also to all the volunteers and members who brought art and sold tickets, checked ID's, gave out glasses, greeted guests, and did all the other things that made this event so much fun for everyone.
A party wouldn't be a party without live music and, once again, The Secret CommonWealth and Patton James and The Synchromatics entertained the crowd mightily.
Last, but in no way least, the Guild wishes to thank everyone who attended Arts & Ales. You make it possible to give a $1,000 scholarship to a Franklin County student and have put the Guild well on its way to endowing the scholarship fund in perpetuity. You also help to keep our gallery, The Artisan Depot, the wonderful place it is that serves our community in so many ways.
The Guild would like to give a special shout-out to the following individuals for their work at Arts & Ales:
Pippa Browne, Artisan Depot gallery coordinator
Margie Gallagher, former gallery goordinator and current Guild secretary
Joe Butler, Guild vice president
Denise Miller, Guild Treasurer
Patricia Richards, public relations and social media
Kim Phillips, website and email marketing
Dwain Adams, craft beer server
Mary Ann Morrison, queen of efficient check-out for art sales
Tanya Otero, newest Guild member and check-out helper
Mark Ledbetter, Mr. Arts & Ales, for all of the little and big things he does to put the event together
Thank you to all the talented artists that did demonstrations during the event:
Ken Gould, woodworking
Frances Perea, fairy mob art
Denise Miller, acrylic painting
Melanie Villegas, painting on F\furniture and other neat things
Pat Richards, hollow log making
Margie Gallagher, book making and creating fairy housing with natural materials
Joyce Adams, crocheting bags and moisture mats to be donated and used by the homeless of Franklin County
There were also many people who jumped in and volunteered to help with: setting up tables and chairs and, afterward, cleaning up, sweeping, mopping floors, cleaning bathrooms, and sorting recyclables.
Thanks also to all the volunteers and members who brought art and sold tickets, checked ID's, gave out glasses, greeted guests, and did all the other things that made this event so much fun for everyone.
A party wouldn't be a party without live music and, once again, The Secret CommonWealth and Patton James and The Synchromatics entertained the crowd mightily.
Last, but in no way least, the Guild wishes to thank everyone who attended Arts & Ales. You make it possible to give a $1,000 scholarship to a Franklin County student and have put the Guild well on its way to endowing the scholarship fund in perpetuity. You also help to keep our gallery, The Artisan Depot, the wonderful place it is that serves our community in so many ways.
The Franklin County Arts Guild promotes the arts and arts education in Franklin County, Tennessee and beyond. Its gallery, The Artisan Depot, is located at 204 Cumberland Street E in Cowan, Tennessee. Click here to email us for more information.

Arts & Ales is the annual fun-raising event for the Franklin County Arts Guild, so of course there is art -- great art by local artists -- and you can get some great deals on art you will love. And while you are shopping the art and watching local artisans do their thing, you'll be sippin' samples of craft beers from brewers here, near, and far.
Among the brewers bringing their wares to Arts & Ales 2019 are:
Samuel Adams | Lagunitas Brewing Company | Terrapin Beer Company | SweetWater Brewing Company | Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales | Ballast Point Brewing Company | Highland Brewing Company | Fat Bottom Brewing | Singin' River Brewing Company | Chattanooga Brewing Company | Catawba Brewing Company | Yee-Haw Brewing Company | Sierra Nevada... and Tullahoma' very own Ole Shed Brewing.
Making their first appearances at Arts & Ales are Stone Brewing and Gypsy Circus Cider Company. And, the Backwoods Car Boys will be on hand with samples of home brews and a display of steps in the small-batch brewing process.
Among the brewers bringing their wares to Arts & Ales 2019 are:
Samuel Adams | Lagunitas Brewing Company | Terrapin Beer Company | SweetWater Brewing Company | Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales | Ballast Point Brewing Company | Highland Brewing Company | Fat Bottom Brewing | Singin' River Brewing Company | Chattanooga Brewing Company | Catawba Brewing Company | Yee-Haw Brewing Company | Sierra Nevada... and Tullahoma' very own Ole Shed Brewing.
Making their first appearances at Arts & Ales are Stone Brewing and Gypsy Circus Cider Company. And, the Backwoods Car Boys will be on hand with samples of home brews and a display of steps in the small-batch brewing process.
Arts & Ales 2019
Saturday, March 9
Noon to 4:30
Monterey Station, Cowan TN
Saturday, March 9
Noon to 4:30
Monterey Station, Cowan TN
Did you ever look at a piece of art, or a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, and think, "Wow. How'd they do that?" Now you can find out. Several of the creative people in the Franklin County Arts Guild will be plying their trades at Arts & Ales on Saturday, March 9 from noon to 4:30 at Monterey Station in Cowan. You can watch them, and some may even let you try your hand!

Acrylic pouring is very popular, and it's just one of the mediums that artist Denise Miller works in. It is a technique that produces spontaneous, flowy, soothing images. Said Denise, "I enjoy watching colors swirl around me, making patterns. I find it all intensely satisfying." Come watch create this fascinating art.

Since Arts & Ales is, after all, about craft brewing, the Backwoods Car Boys will be there again this year, demonstrating the art of home brewing. They will also have samples of their creations for tasting. These guys are have a wealth of information about making your own beer, and they have generously supported Arts & Ales for several years. Be sure to stop by to see how they do it.

Melanie Villegas painted and sold furniture in Winter Park, Fl. prior to moving to the Tennessee Plateau with her husband, Tom, in 2006. She will be giving a demonstration of “Charmed Horseshoes” decorative painting at Arts & Ales.
And, Frances Perea, Pat Bishop, and Margie Gallagher will be demonstrating how to create a whimsical fairyland, complete with fairies, fairy logs, and fairy houses. You will be charmed and amazed. Read more about that here.

There will be much more to enjoy at Arts & Ales 2019. There will be two bands, lots of art to shop from, dozens of local and craft beers to sample, Floyd's Farm food truck* and Sweet Ellie's ice cream* ... don't miss it! Your good time will support an arts scholarship and arts participation in and around Franklin County.
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