Linden TN Arts District

Art is everywhere in Linden, Tennessee, the result of a 2009 summer youth empowerment program that staffed nearly 65 local individuals aged 14-24. Within the larger program, the art department employed 20 young people to create a dozen works of public art.

The program, styled after the WPA programs of the thirties and forties, encouraged youth to explore their creativity within a collaborative group problem-solving environment. Over the course of eight weeks, eleven professional artists were hired to facilitate the creation of public art. The projects encompassed clay, painting, assemblage, glass mosaic, weaving, basketry and environmental sculpture.

Working with a dynamic group of artists and art mediums provided youth employees the opportunity to experience art from a range of perspectives, all while developing both their critical thinking and technical art making skills. The byproduct of their efforts is Linden's Arts & Historic District: one of a series of community based economic development initiatives.

While the Arts District lies at the foundation of a plan to draw business and tourism, it stands as a testimonial to the town's spirit and life changing experiences of the youth who helped develop it. As fresh paint replaced long-faded murals and happy imagery stylized the trash cans, the affects rippled through the community in a spirit of renewal. This, while a depression-era economic downturn otherwise gripped the community. "I think we all learned that with a little help and some support, a few "kids" can make a big difference in a small town," said 15-year old Traver Duncan. Indeed, these "kids" have made a difference.

Local artists and artisans have established an Artisan Co-op here in Linden. An Artisan Co-op is a place where artists and artisans gather to show and sell their work, and demonstrate their talents. The downtown Linden Arts and Historic District was the perfect setting. The co-op is made up of artists and artisans who pay a small fee or commission for a membership to help with building overhead.

If you are interested in becoming a part of this movement toward an Artisan Co-op, please contact VisionPerry by phone at 589-3031, or by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .