Founded in 1937, the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community began as a group of area craftsman seeking to be closer to their places of creation amidst their tools and resources. Thus, after years of peddling their goods in downtown Gatlinburg, a group of local artisans decided they would invite tourists to come to them. These original artisans included: John Cowden (woodcarver), Lee Ogle (broom maker), and Noah McCarter (chair maker).
Today, the town of Gatlinburg is home to the nation’s largest organization of independent artisans, over one hundred and twenty. These group of craftsmen are well known for their numerous talents which range anywhere from broom making to detailed oil painting to detailed hand-sculpted items.
Located on a convenient 8 mile loop road, this historic arts and crafts area has been designated a Tennessee Heritage Arts & Crafts Trail. Visitors to this area can experience the craftsman ship and artistry in person at the studios where these artists creates and become a part of the magic and tradition that runs deep in these parts.
Visitors will watch artists create a plethora of original collectibles and folk art such as candles, baskets, quilts, trolls, brooms, pottery, jewelry, dolls, ceramics, oak and willow baskets, scrimshaw, silver-smithing, leather, stained glass, wearable fashions, sculpture, lithographs, fine photography, frameable art, oils and watercolors.
A trip to the Great Smoky Mountain area is not complete without a visit to this historic and landmark community.
Visitors quickly followed and soon other craftsmen and artists joined the community opening workshops, studios, and galleries most of them right alongside or in their homes.