A crowd gathers at the Arts Depot in Abingdon, Va., during a recent art walk.
The Tri-Cities and surrounding communities abound with art galleries, musical venues and other arts-related organizations, and each locale has developed creative ways to share the arts with its community.
It may be a monthly art walk, or an Arts in Public Place project, Kingsport's Carousel project, special exhibits, arts festivals or educational events for children; but they all aim to share the special joy and insight into humanity that only the arts can give.
The community is responding to this sharing. Not only do they attend the events, and listen to the music that usually accompanies them; they are buying art to take home where it can continue to inspire them. One local gallery that was having a fundraiser sold more than 70 percent of its offerings during one of these events.
Members of the community are also supporting local businesses by shopping in nearby stores and dining in local restaurants. Most importantly, they are having a wonderful time.
