In a quaint merging of municipal work and artistic expression, the City of Kingsport is giving its own public servants a chance to shine beyond their day-to-day roles. An art exhibit is currently unfurling its metaphorical red carpet in the lobby of the city's core administrative building, primarily to showcase the hidden artistic prowess that lurks within its workforce.

Evidently, the more than 750 individuals clocking in at Kingsport's City Hall are not just about budgets, urban planning, and local legislation. A myriad of them have been doubling as artists, with talents sprawling across pencil sketches, paintings, mixed media, digital art, fiber art, photography, and graphic design. It's an impressive testament to the oft-overlooked depths of those who serve public roles.

On show until November 4, 2024, in the Circle Gallery on the first floor lobby of Kingsport City Hall, located at 415 Broad Street, the exhibit is a tip of the hat to these employee artists. According to a press release from the City of Kingsport website, Cultural Arts Manager Kristie Leonard noted, "We have showcased several regional artists in the Circle Gallery over the past couple of years, but we’ve never put the spotlight on our own city employees." There's no denying the cross-pollination of roles, which often goes unnoticed until it's deliberately brought into focus.

Leonard’s intent is not only to provide a platform for employee recognition but also to foster greater community engagement with the arts in Kingsport. By showcasing its own staff, the city is inadvertently reminding us that art and the ability to create it are not confined to artistic sectors but are a universal language present in all walks of life.

For those interested in the broader efforts of Kingsport Cultural Arts or in taking a deeper dive into the city's artistic undertakings, additional details about classes, programs and activities, can be found on their website. To connect directly with the source of inspiration, visit Kingsport Cultural Arts.