Featured Work – December 2017

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

Santa Claus is coming to town this weekend. But for those of you who can’t wait to see Old Saint Nick in person, luckily you will be able to get your Santa fix on Friday, November 17, 2017.  The final additions to Centennial Park, a full-size Santa sculpture and covered gazebo have been completed!  The figure is called “The Spirit of Generosity” and was done by artist Val Lyle, from Art Now and the gazebo was designed by local iron artist, John Robinson of Appalachian Ironworks.
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The sculpture was inspired by the 75th anniversary of the Santa Train and the countless acts of generosity that have made it possible for so many years.
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“This public artwork is sure to become a family and photo favorite and give everyone a chance to ‘ride and wave’ alongside Santa,” said Bonnie Macdonald, director of the Kingsport Office of Cultural Arts. “Many thanks to those who provided the initial spark for the idea and who dreamed of making this unique sculpture a reality and to Val Lyle and Appalachian Ironworks for making it come to life.”

Featured Work : Dec 2017_04

The full-size bronzed sculpture depicts Santa on the back of a caboose inviting visitors to come aboard. He is surrounded by a covered iron gazebo on a concrete platform with a short walkway leading up, engraved with the traditional stops along the route from Shelby, Ky., to the Model City.
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Don’t forget when you are downtown visiting the gazebo and getting your photos with Santa Claus, to explore downtown Kingsport.  So much has gone into the revitalization for the entire family to enjoy!  And as you are strolling downtown, you’ll see many creations (functional art) that were created with YOU in mind!  May you and your family enjoy peace and love this season!