Celebrating modern sculptures with annual festival
The Caldwell Arts Council has been promoting and presenting high quality arts since 1976. The Council is known for its annual Sculpture Celebration that attracts artists from across the country and brings visitors into Lenoir.
In 2012, the Council commissioned a sculpture by Thomas Sayre, an artist who designs and builds public art projects all over the world. “Across the Grain” stands in a park in the heart of Lenoir. The large form was dug into the earth and cast in concrete with reinforced with steel. The “earthcast” concrete circular form rises 26 feet above the ground with jagged, toothy edges referencing a water wheel. Such wheels powered the sawmills and furniture factories that historically provided an economic base for the town’s economy.
Located in an historic building in downtown Lenoir, the Caldwell Arts Council is home to four beautiful gallery spaces and a small artisan craft gift shop. Exhibits in the gallery change monthly or every-other-month and range from contemporary to traditional and from paintings to pottery.
Inside, you’ll find Satie’s Gift Shop, named in honor of Satie Broyhill, who owned and lived in the house. The shop operates year-round , selling fine handmade crafts and art from local artisans. Come December, the whole house changes over to a gift shop for the Satie’s Holiday Sale, full of beautiful handmade items for your holiday gifting.
For hours and other news, visit their website.
