KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Exploring the Vibrant KnoxWalls Project
If you find yourself strolling around Emory Place, you might think it’s just another day in the bustling city of Knoxville. However, take a moment to wander into a charming back alley, and you’ll discover an impressive treasure trove of art – a sprawling 7,000 square feet of vibrant murals known as KnoxWalls. This project isn’t just about paint on walls; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the “divas” that remarkably influence our lives, as defined by the talented artists behind the initiative.
What Makes a Diva?
But what exactly does it mean to be a diva? According to Orel Brodt, one of the featured artists, “A diva is someone who’s inspirational and impactful, doesn’t have to be necessarily a man or a woman but is someone who’s making waves and changing the atmosphere around them.” The divine theme of the project reflects the importance of individuals who embody these characteristics, illustrating their influence on the world and the people surrounding them.
Bringing Art to Northern Knoxville
Known for fostering creativity and community spirit, Dogwood Arts is at the helm of this vibrant project. Shannon Herron, the director of marketing and media, shared exciting goals for KnoxWalls: “We hope to draw the art scene to the northern part of town.” The murals were painted by 13 talented artists over the course of 18 months, each bringing a unique touch while expressing their personal inspirations.
A Collective Canvas
Each mural has a story of its own, featuring iconic figures ranging from mothers and grandmothers to historical legends. As Curtis Glover, another artist involved in the project, pointed out, “We all followed the same prompt to the best of our ability and came up with a bunch of different ideas that are now all next to each other side by side, and they all tell a different story.” This collective canvas not only showcases the artists’ talents but also the rich tapestry of stories that bind us all.
Connecting Communities Through Art
Art, by nature, can be quite subjective, and the artists behind KnoxWalls are eager to encourage visitors to engage personally with the murals. Gared Luquet, another artist on the project, expressed his hopes for the exhibit: “We’re hoping it becomes a connector of all the amazing stuff that’s happening downtown and in North Knoxville as we create this arts and culture hub at Emory Place.”
Visiting KnoxWalls
The KnoxWalls exhibit is not just an artistic endeavor; it’s a cultural experience waiting for you to explore. It’s open from Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m., and the best part? It’s completely free to visit! So gather your friends or family for a leisurely walk and soak in the artistic expressions that adorn these walls, each telling its own unique story.
Final Thoughts
As you navigate through the vibrant streets of Knoxville, make sure to carve out some time to visit KnoxWalls. It’s more than just a collection of murals; it’s a celebration of the divas that inspire us and a testament to the power of art to bridge communities and spark inspiration. So don’t miss your chance to experience this beautiful project firsthand!
