This Thursday, twenty artists from across the country will be heading to Chattanooga for the most creative caravan and free public art event this side of the Mississippi.
The Scenic City Art Car Weekend, organized by local non-profit Art 120, returns for year five. Thanks to the support of ArtsBuild, Causeway, corporate support, and in partnership with Hamilton County Department of Education, these artists will reach an additional 2,500 elementary school children that do not have an art program in their school.
“Art has proved itself to be a crucial part of childhood development.” says Executive Director Kate Warren. “Art teaches critical thinking skills and encourages learning on an interactive level. It’s no surprise that the one thing our six highest achieving elementary schools in Hamilton County have in common is a visual arts program.”
The Scenic City Art Car Weekend rock the weekend and have something for everyone. The Art-Car-A-Van will kick things off Friday, April 22nd with a creative morning commute to Red Bank, Hixson, Soddy, Hillcrest, and Clifton Hills Elementary Schools.
Later, adults can enjoy a sneak peek Friday night at the Art Car Ball from 7-10pm at the Chattanooga Choo Choo with special guest and recent Road to Nightfall winner, Nick Lutsko. This donation based evening promises to be quite an event with costumes, high energy music, and cars that light up in the night. Trophies and bragging rights for the most creative attire. Proceeds from food and beverage sales benefit Art 120’s outreach programs.
What’s fun, free, and perfect for families? An Art Car Tailgate Party across from The Creative Discovery Museum, of course! The excitement continues Saturday, April 23rd, in the parking lot at 4th and Broad from 9am-Noon. Meet the artists, see these mobile masterpieces up close, and vote for your favorite school entry before they hit the streets.
The Art Cars roll at 1pm and continue down Broad to Main Street, wrapping up at the finish line on Passenger Street next to the Flying Squirrel. Students will receive prizes and trophies, including the Golden Gnome Award award ceremony and $500 for best entry provided courtesy of Rock City.
Bring the family for a creative Chattanooga weekend of parades, food, fun, prizes, and parties! visit www.art120.org for details.