The Artists, Events, and Venues Shaping Arts and Culture
By Shelby Ruch
Goodlettsville is emerging as a hidden gem for arts and culture enthusiasts. The city’s rich arts history is evident through the many events, initiatives, and classes that showcase the local artists and their work. From captivating murals that tell a story about the city to innovative installations blending arts and technology, Goodlettsville is quickly becoming a haven for all who enjoy and celebrate the arts.
GOODLETTSVILLE MURAL TOUR
You can find several murals throughout Goodlettsville, each making great backdrops for your Instagram posts and photo albums. The newest mural is a bright, sunny, and multi-colored phrase that proclaims the truth – that life is “Good in Goodlettsville.” This mural is a new and beloved favorite, and it was completed in October of 2023. Let the new mural brighten up your day and your photos! You can find this mural at the Delmas Long Community Center at 200 Memorial Drive.
Another mural that Goodlettsville is proud of is the “Blame It All On My Roots” mural, completed in April of 2023. This mural depicts important aspects of life in Goodlettsville – like the Little League World Series, The Bowen House, Mansker’s Station, a green backdrop with wildflowers, Nashville in the distance, and a guitar featuring Goodlettsville residents who are members of the Grand Ole Opry or the Country Music Hall of Fame. Some of these famous Goodlettsville musicians include Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Grandpa Jones, Stringbean, and so many more. You can find this mural at the Goodlettsville Visitor’s Center at 705 Caldwell Drive.
Last but certainly not least is the GOOD-LETTS-VILLE mural. Completed in 2019, this mural was one of the first in Goodlettsville. It features the City’s name in block letters, with different aspects of our history and culture shown in each letter. Some of the featured landmarks include the Old Stone Bridge, Connell Memorial United Methodist Church, the historic Bank of Goodlettsville building, City Hall, Moss-Wright Park, and many more. You can find this mural at the Rust and Ruffles Boutique at 136 S Main Street.
All three of these murals were created by Kristy Oakley Wiginton of Where the Art Is.
UTILITY BOXES
In January 2023, the City of Goodlettsville began the Utility Box Art Program to transform boxes throughout the city into striking landmarks. Designed by residents of the city, the artwork relates to the culture, history, or landscape of Goodlettsville – with depictions of Moss-Wright Park, Union Hill Baptist Church, monarch butterflies, children playing, and more. You can find the 11 wrapped utility boxes on Main Street, Long Hollow Pike, Conference Drive, and Mission Ridge.
ARTISTS ON MAIN
Photo Credit: Artists on Main
The Artists on Main Painting Society is a supportive and collaborative group of painters that create and learn together. The Society is led by David Gillihan and featured about 100 artists in the collective. Even if you're not a painter, you can get involved by taking art classes. The Society meets in the historic Bank of Goodlettsville building that was originally built in 1900. You can visit the private art gallery, see the historic building, or even join the Artists on Main Painting Society! Check them out at 117 N Main Street.
ATC COLLISION ROBOT
Photo Credit: Charles Cook
One of the most unexpected additions to Goodlettsville’s art scene is the robot at ATC Collision. Originally created by Aaron Allen as an entry for the Goodlettsville Scarecrow Contest, the robot is fully functional with a moving head and arms, cooling fans, and light-up eyes. The robot was such a hit with the community that it now stays up year-round and is decorated for different seasons, including Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Fourth of July, and more. You can go see the robot at 608 N Main Street.
SARAH SPILLERS ART
Sarah Spillers is an award-winning painter and art educator. She is a Goodlettsville native, and her art reflects a deep connection to the community. She also explores themes of food, identity, and the South.
CLAY IN THE WOODS
If you’re looking to get your hands dirty, Clay in the Woods provides a unique opportunity for ceramic artists and those looking to take pottery classes. A studio, local artist cooperative, and more, Clay in the Woods also hosts regular workshops, pottery classes, and an annual pottery market in the fall. Visit the studio at 1670 Union Hill Road.
In Goodlettsville, the harmony of tradition mixed with innovation is the foundation of the city’s thriving arts and culture scene. It’s clear through the many murals, artists, and city initiatives that there is both passion and pride for the community. Goodlettsville’s arts and culture scene is a celebration of the past, reflection of the present, and a promise for a creative future. •