Celebrate the local arts scene during Arts Week

From music and theater to the art of recycling, get ready for a week dedicated to highlighting the creativity happening around Chattanooga.

NOOGAtoday | John Henry sculpture

This 72-ft sculpture by John Henry will be unveiled during Arts Week.

Photo provided by Sculpture Fields

Arts Week — a week-long celebration of local arts organizations + creatives in Chattanooga and Hamilton County — returns April 21 through April 26.

ArtsWeek is led by ArtsBuild, which invites the community to celebrate the art scene’s vital contributions. The arts sector in Hamilton County creates nearly $200 million in economic impact annually + supports over 3,000 jobs.

“Arts Week is more than a celebration. It’s about the power of creativity in bringing people together and driving our local economy forward,” said ArtsBuild President James McKissic.

The full lineup offers something for everyone (think: live music, gallery exhibitions, workshops, and community events), but here are some of our must-attend events.

Inside the Mind of Lorrie Moore | Free, RSVP
Join Writers@Work on Tuesday, April 22 at the Hunter Museum of American Art for an in-depth interview with author Lorrie Moore + stick around for a book signing and dessert reception.

Art in Uncertain Times | $13
The Chattery will host Narrative 4 — featuring educators, students, and artists who use art and storytelling to promote empathy + understanding — for a creative exploration of art’s role in navigating uncertainty on Wednesday, April 23.

The Art of Recycling | Free+
River City Co. + Art120 will bring an interactive upcycled art experience to Miller Park on Thursday, April 24. Attendees will help complete the Terra the Turtle sculpture, see an exhibition of bicycles-turned-art pieces, and enjoy lunch from local food trucks.

John Henry’s “Best for Last” Dedication | Free
Head to Sculpture Fields at Montague Park on Friday, April 25 to witness the unveiling of a new sculpture that is the final work of the park’s late founder, John Henry.

Bonus: If your organization would like to host an event during Arts Week, there’s still time to submit it online.

More from NOOGAtoday
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
A major project will bring new amenities and an 18-month closure starting this fall.
With new decking, paint, lighting and more, one of Chattanooga’s most beloved landmarks is getting another 30+ years of life.
The free summer concert series at Ross’s Landing will take place every Saturday night in late May through early September.
Prepare for spring weather in Chattanooga, TN with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
The 9-bedroom Colonial Revival sits just blocks from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
The Chattanooga Lookouts kick off the season on April 14 at their brand-new stadium — here’s what to know about Opening Week, parking, and food options.
Painting is finished and tarps are down as crews enter the final phase.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
Two upcoming auctions will give Chattanooga Lookouts fans the chance to bid on seats, signage, memorabilia, and more from AT&T Field.