Downtown businesses extended hours Friday evening as individuals were able to express their artistic sides.
Blue River Studio and the Elizabethton Arts and Cultural Alliance hosted the first-ever Downtown Elizabethton Art Walk, which was met with a substantial response from the public.
“We’ve had a very good response from people,” Karen Hitchcock with Blue River Studio said. “It’s great to see people get involved with the arts and have a chance to visit downtown.”
Hitchcock added it was great to see the involvement from the downtown business, with 22 extending their hours to help accommodate the foot traffic.
A handful of companies were heavily involved with the walk. Coffee Company, Blue River Studio, Duck Crossing, Ritchie’s Furniture & Appliance and Cottage Boutique offered passport stops for individuals. During the evening, participants were able to take a “passport” to different businesses to entered into a drawing for prizes.
Artistic demonstrations were also held at the Bonnie Kate, the Dressing Room and Simple Blessings.
Participating in the event was a joy, according to artist Allison Parker. The New York native recently moved to the area and presented her work to the public inside the Coffee Company.
“It’s been so great here,” Parker said about coming to the region. “Everyone is so friendly. It’s awesome to see which photos people respond to and to see what makes people happy.”
Musicians also lined through downtown while a chalk area, located in the alleyway between the Coffee Company and Sweetsie Treats proved to be a hit.
Businesses recognized for the support of the event, from donations to door prizes, including the Downtown Business Association, Dino’s Restaurant, All Start Sports & Country Crafts, Lady Bug Cottage & Antiques, the Peddler’s Cart and Fetterolf’s Clothing.
Friday’s art walk continues a trend of looking bulk up the art scene in downtown Elizabethton. Along with recent work to alleyways, Elizabethton High School’s Bartleby Program is adding a helping hand with students focusing on various beautification projects.
Funds raised during the evening will benefit upcoming projects sponsored by the Arts and Cultural Alliance, a recently formed 501(c)3 that continually stays active locally.
Robert Benfield, with the organization, added recent reports from the State of Tennessee and Knoxville have showcased what the arts can do from an economic standpoint and that Elizabethton and Carter County will be able to reap the benefits of a thriving arts community.
To learn more about the arts locally, visit www.elizalliance.org, the Elizabethton Arts and Cultural Alliance Facebook Page.
Blue River Studio also has a variety of events inside their business in downtown. Follow the company on Facebook or call (423) 213-5060 to learn more.