The 2022 Heritage Festival Collectible Print, titled Follow Your Heart, the latest in the series from Union County artist Betty Bullen, acknowledges the barn and its important role in rural Appalachia.
Much of life in the country had its birth in the barn. It was the place where not only the farm animal work was done, but also the location where many a heart felt the spark of love at the local barn dance.
The barn brought the community together to build something bigger than one family could accomplish. The Barn built community. Whether it was the “look” from that special someone across the barn floor or the first cry of a newborn lamb or kitten, we have all had that urge to follow our heart and recall those lasting memories that happened in The Barn.
Each year since the inception of the Union County Heritage Festival, Bullen has created a painting reflecting life in Union County as a fundraiser for the event. Prints are available for $20 at the festival and at a few local businesses.
The festival is holding a “Decorate Union County” for businesses anywhere in the county in conjunction with the October 1 event.
Entries are due by September 28 by registering at tiny.utk.edu/heritage22 or by calling the Extension office in Maynardville at 865-992-8038.
Businesses in Union County will be recognized for the best fall decorations. Judging will take place on September 29, and awards will be presented at the festival.
The theme for this year’s festival is “Follow Your Heart - A Tribute to Carl Smith.”
See inside for entry information for the Heritage Festival Art Show and Pie Contest.