But Marble City isnt Knoxvilles only nickname.
Scruffy City is a moniker the place holds with equal parts pride and winking good humor.
When you visit Knoxville, youre always in for an amazing time.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
The tagline of our visitors bureau calls Knoxville Nature-Loving-Adventure-Seeking-Artsy-Kinda-Town, and thats exactly what we are.
Upon walking in, youre greeted by Higher Ground, a collection dedicated to Knoxville-area artists.
This is our flagship exhibit, Kaplan explains.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
It began in 2006, when we started focusing on works from East Tennessee and Appalachia more generally.
Now it features unsung heroes of the region in two newly renovated galleries.
The Curio also stocks one-of-a-kind jewelry by local silversmith Valerie Pearce.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Her earrings, cuff bracelets, and necklaces are fabricated using a variety of techniques, including fold forming.
Their distinctive products include lowball tumblers, decanters, and pitchers as well as decor like holiday ornaments.
In college, I begrudgingly took an elective course in glass, Cummings says.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
You have to be in the moment.
The material makes you surrenderit has so much personality and character.
You dont tell the glass what to do; you ask it nicely.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Youll also find splash pads and fountains here.
Admission is free, and its open daily from sunup to sundown.
For groups, they also offer communal drinks to serve the table.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
