Visual Arts 

The Visual Arts Committee oversees a variety of programs that encourage participation in exposure to all forms of visual art.  Showings and receptions for local and regional artists are the mainstay of this committee’s activity.  These individual and group shows regularly focus the spotlight on both fine and folk artists from around the area.  The University of Tennessee Martin/Selmer campus plays host to 3-4 of these shows a year in addition to serving as a gallery space for student art shows and contests during National Youth Art Month and at other selected occasions. 

The Visual Arts Committee’s annual photography contest draws hundreds of entries from a three state region, a barrage of media coverage and some of the areas finest amateur photography.  Cash prizes are awarded in several age and subject categories.  The fall event also draws a large crowd to the UTM center for the opening reception and awards ceremonies. 

Educational outreach has also been a priority for this committee.  Past workshops have brought nationally recognized artists to McNairy County for weekend instructional seminars and public demonstrations.  The committee has also been active in bringing local and outside instructors in contact with area children during several summer art camps. 

The AiM Artisan Trail is a cooperative effort between the Visual Arts and the AiM Heritage and Culture Committee.  A subcommittee of Visual Arts sets the criteria for participation in the trail, acts as the jury for artist selection and serves as a liaison group to represent the artisan’s interest in the community.