Jackson County Art Society festival has large crowd, great turnout despite inclement weather

Katie Hightower

On Sept. 28, The Art Society of Jackson County held its annual Full Moon Art Fest on the Square in Downtown Scottsboro. Rain and wind from Hurricane Helene was still working its way through Jackson County the morning of the event. The rainy overcast morning did not keep the vendors or crowds away from the Art Fest featuring local artists and writers. By afternoon, the rain ended and even bigger crowds filed onto the square to see the artwork, books and wares for sale. The sound of music filled the air as bands played at the gazebo and the smell of food from vendors sparked the appetites of attendees.

The Full Moon Art Fest gave local artists and writers an opportunity to display and sell their artwork and books to the community. Many had business cards available for future sales for interested individuals. Each artist was judged on their work and winners were chosen for various medians.

First-place winners were Shawn Schuster, Drawing; Matthew Crowell, Photography; Belinda Smith, Pottery; Andy Watkins, Woodworking; Trayce West, Sculpture; Anna Wyatt Lewis, Jewelry; Ryley Chambers, Fiber and Kris Shelledy, Mixed Media.

The winner of Best in Show was Randall Summerford. Summerford’s art features intricately illustrated wildlife scenes. He was shocked to win the honor.

There was also a costume contest and a ghost-story contest. The winner for both contests was seven-year-old Finley Kidd, with her Wednesday Adams costume and scary story about a ghost brother. Kidd made sure to stay in character with a serious expression as her photograph was taken.

Music entertainment was provided by Austin Jennings and 12 Miles North. 

“Despite the earlier rain, we enjoyed a perfect evening filled with shopping, food, music and support for artists,” said Denise White, President of the Art Society of Jackson County. “We want to thank all the artists who braved the weather to showcase their work, the food vendors and musicians. Your dedication made this event a true success! We are thrilled with the outcome and look forward to the Full Moon Art Fest in 2025 and other events to bring more art to our area. We also invite everyone to join us on Oct. 12 at the BBQ Festival in Scottsboro, where we will sell gourmet caramel apples and host our 2nd Annual Witches Ride.” 

For more information about the upcoming events, please visit www.artsocietyofjc.com/witches-ride.