Few things enrich the quality of life in a community as effectively as a robust Arts scene. Visual arts can reflect our community pride while performing arts gather us together to share common experiences. Art expresses emotion, promotes empathy, and is a conduit for self-expression and an appreciation for what we find beautiful in the world around us. And don’t forget: the Arts are also good for business – driving tourism, strengthening brands, and stimulating innovation. Everyone benefits in a community with unique, well-supported Arts integration.
For nearly a decade, Smyrna Arts Council has been leading the effort to create and sustain a thriving Arts scene for Smyrna. "Art is an integral part of human culture and identity, and it is the heartbeat of a city like Smyrna,” says Board President Vanya Foote. “Art helps to promote a sense of place for our citizens.”
“The voice of the artist is often unheard,” says Jason Walesh, artist and owner of Glenn’s Café in Mableton. “Smyrna Arts Council listens to the artists in their community and affords them the opportunity to speak to a larger audience.”
Here are some of the many ways Smyrna Arts Council is at work! There is so much potential still to be realized - and the Council is ready to partner with local artists, philanthropists, businesses, and elected leaders to make it happen.
Advocacy
Smyrna Arts Council grew out of the city-sponsored Visioning Process of 2015, led by then-Councilperson Melleny Pritchett, Dr. Bill Marchione, and Mayor Max Bacon, to cultivate and promote arts and culture for Smyrna. Now an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit, the Council provides a strong, independent voice for Smyrna’s cultural community. Members frequently serve on municipal task forces, conduct candidate interviews, and attend regional conferences.
Outreach
Smyrna Arts Council is maintaining a monthly presence at the 2024 Smyrna Market. Stop by their booth to shop local artists, learn about events, find opportunities to support, and paint treasures to hide around town with their popular #SmyrnaGARocks initiative. The Council also sponsors the Traveling Fence Gallery’s annual Smyrna residency and has worked with our local students through gallery shows and scholarships.
Community Art
The Community Art Exhibits in Smyrna City Hall and the Community Center are an opportunity for local artists to display their work to be enjoyed for free by the community. Exhibits change quarterly and the art displayed has run the gamut of mediums, styles, and subject matter. Artists interested in being considered for future exhibits should visit smyrnaartscouncil.com and Apply as an Artist.
Live Art Events
Live art events produced by Smyrna Arts Council have included a jazz concert under the stars, turning the Old Smyrna Firehouse into a theatre for a one-woman show, bringing Dad’s Garage to the Community Center, commissioning and staging The Secrets of Smyrna walking historical theatre tour, and sponsoring Art Live! – live painting, with the finished piece won by an attendee - at Vineyard Wine Market.
Smyrna Arts Council is a grassroots 501(c)3 nonprofit managed by an all-volunteer Board and supported by donations. Come to their first-ever fundraising gala at the Reed House Saturday, September 14th to support the Arts while celebrating them!
smyrnaartscouncil.com / @smyrnaartscouncil