Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
A tranquil art school in Gatlinburg offering diverse workshops, galleries, and a strong creative community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for diverse art classes
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
Best Time
Ideal for diverse art classes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil art school in Gatlinburg offering diverse workshops, galleries, and a strong creative community.
"Arrowmont is a true hidden treasure in Gatlinburg, offering an amazing experience."
🎯 Apply for Scholarships
Don't miss out on grants and scholarships to make your art education affordable. :ticket:
🍽️ Don't Skip the Meal Plan
The 'mess hall' meals are amazing and great for socializing with classmates and instructors. :knifeforkplate:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Woodturning Workshops
Woodworking Studios
Master lidded boxes and embellishing techniques with world-class machinery and expert instructors.
Fiber Arts Residencies
Fiber Arts Studios
Immerse yourself in knitting and other fiber arts, creating unique pieces during week-long residencies.
Appalachian Basket Weaving
Basketry Studios
Learn traditional Appalachian basket weaving techniques in a valuable, treasured learning experience.
Glass Casting & Bending
Glass Studios
Explore glass casting for relief and pate de verre, or master wood bending for sculptural forms.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Art Escape Early
Embrace the Community Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Apply for Scholarships
Don't miss out on grants and scholarships to make your art education affordable. :ticket:
🍽️ Don't Skip the Meal Plan
The 'mess hall' meals are amazing and great for socializing with classmates and instructors. :knifeforkplate:
✨ Explore the Gallery
Discover beautiful and interesting art pieces on display, often free to view. :camerawithflash:
🛏️ Comfortable Accommodations
Rooms are typically clean, new, and comfortable for a restful stay. :bed:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Apply for Scholarships
Don't miss out on grants and scholarships to make your art education affordable. :ticket:
🍽️ Don't Skip the Meal Plan
The 'mess hall' meals are amazing and great for socializing with classmates and instructors. :knifeforkplate:
✨ Explore the Gallery
Discover beautiful and interesting art pieces on display, often free to view. :camerawithflash:
🛏️ Comfortable Accommodations
Rooms are typically clean, new, and comfortable for a restful stay. :bed:
🛠️ Top-Notch Facilities
Experience world-class machinery and studios for a professional art-making experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Arrowmont is widely praised as a hidden gem offering a tranquil artistic retreat with excellent facilities and a strong sense of community. Visitors rave about the quality of instruction, the delicious meals, and the comfortable accommodations. Some recent feedback points to potential issues with meal inclusions for extended stays, impacting those on a fixed income.
"Absolutely love it here. You really feel secluded even though you're surrounded by the tourist trap that is Gatlinburg. You experience so much more than just the curriculum of the workshop you sign up for!"
Mary Overend
"Arrowmont is a true hidden treasure in Gatlinburg. If you've been to Gatlinburg you have almost certainly walked or driven right by it and never noticed it. If you are looking to take an arts and crafts class with instructors from around the country and world this is the place. The facilities are great and the staff is super friendly. It's an amazing experience that I highly recommend.
Tip: If you do decide to take a class be sure to purchase the meal plan with your class. The meals in the "mess hall" are amazing, and it's a wonderful opportunity to socialize with your classmates and instructors. It's so awesome you'll forget you have a phone. Seriously, how wonderful is that?"
Charles Burke
"Just finished a 3 day woodturning workshop, my first time at Arrowmont and Gatlinburg. I was really impressed! World class machinery, though they do need to tune up their bandsaws. The lathes for turning are Robusts, enough said! My room was clean, new, and comfortable. Finally the food was amazing. Can't wait to go back."
Peter van Rijssen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arrowmont is located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. While it feels secluded, it's close to tourist areas. Many visitors drive, and it's accessible by car. Check for specific directions based on your starting point.
Public transport options directly to Arrowmont might be limited. It's best to plan your travel by car or consider ride-sharing services once you are in the Gatlinburg area.
The nearest major airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, TN, which is about an hour's drive from Gatlinburg. From there, you can rent a car or arrange for transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Workshop registration is typically done online through the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts website. Popular classes fill up quickly, so early registration is recommended.
Yes, Arrowmont offers scholarships and encourages applicants to explore club grants and other financial aid options to make classes more affordable.
Workshops vary in length, from short weekend sessions to week-long immersive experiences. Some residencies can be longer.
Visiting the campus and galleries is often free, but specific workshops or events may have associated fees. Check their website for current visitor information.
Cancellation policies can vary. It's essential to review the specific terms and conditions when booking your workshop, as fees and refund eligibility may differ.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Arrowmont offers a wide range of disciplines including ceramics, fiber arts, woodworking, glass, painting, drawing, photography, and more.
The studios are well-equipped with professional-grade machinery and tools, providing an excellent environment for artists to create.
Yes, Arrowmont typically offers on-campus housing for workshop participants, providing a convenient and immersive experience.
Arrowmont features galleries showcasing student and faculty work, as well as visiting artist exhibitions. These are often open to the public.
The atmosphere is described as tranquil and community-oriented, offering a secluded artistic retreat despite its proximity to Gatlinburg.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Arrowmont provides a meal plan, often served in a 'mess hall' style, which is highly recommended for its quality and opportunity to socialize.
While not always mandatory, the meal plan is strongly encouraged for the social and culinary experience. Check your workshop details for specifics.
It's advisable to contact Arrowmont directly in advance to inquire about their ability to accommodate specific dietary needs or allergies.
Yes, Gatlinburg offers numerous restaurants and dining options if you prefer to eat off-campus, though the Arrowmont meal plan is highly praised.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially to capture your own work or the campus. However, always be mindful of other artists and their privacy.
The campus itself, with its light-filled spaces and natural surroundings, offers beautiful backdrops. The galleries also provide opportunities for artistic shots.
Gallery policies on photography can vary. It's best to look for signage or ask gallery staff before taking photos of exhibited artwork.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you're looking for family-friendly art activities in the Gatlinburg area, you might need to explore other local attractions that cater specifically to children's art experiences. Arrowmont's strength lies in its professional-level instruction and immersive adult learning environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider workshops that are shorter in duration or during off-peak seasons if available. Also, look into whether any gallery visits are free, as this can be a way to experience the artistic environment without a workshop fee.
👩🎨 Aspiring Artists & Professionals
+3Participating in a workshop or residency here can significantly boost your artistic portfolio and network. The opportunity to learn new techniques, experiment with different mediums, and connect with a vibrant artistic community makes Arrowmont a crucial stop for serious art practitioners.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arrowmont Experience: More Than Just a Workshop
This community aspect is significantly enhanced by the on-site dining. The 'mess hall' meals are frequently praised not only for their quality but also as a crucial social hub. It's where conversations flow, ideas are exchanged, and friendships are forged, making the learning experience holistic. The accommodations are also noted for being clean and comfortable, contributing to a well-rounded stay that supports artistic endeavors.
For those looking to expand their artistic horizons, Arrowmont provides access to world-class facilities and expert instructors from around the globe. Whether you're exploring woodturning, fiber arts, glass casting, or basket weaving, the school offers a chance to hone your skills in a supportive and inspiring setting.
+4Financial Aid and Affordability at Arrowmont
Some past attendees have noted changes in how meals are handled for those staying over, which can add unexpected costs if not planned for. It's crucial to carefully review the tuition, room, and board details for your specific workshop. Understanding what is included, especially regarding meals on the final days of a workshop, can help budget effectively and avoid surprises.
Despite these considerations, many find the overall experience to be a valuable investment in their artistic development. The quality of instruction, facilities, and the unique community atmosphere contribute to a memorable and enriching educational journey.
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