CREATE: Spotlight on Southern Artist Beth Meadows

Everything in life is somehow connected. I am constantly amazed by the little serendipitous coincidences that take place all the time in my life. Just the other day I met an artist named Beth Meadows who lives and works in Knoxville.

When I asked her what type of art she created, she began to describe it to me. Immediately I realized that I’ve been a fan of her work for a long time…I just didn’t realize she was the artist.

Beth graduated from the University of Tennessee with a BFA in Studio Art in 2007. She currently manages The Salvage Room for the non-profit Knox Heritage, receiving and selling historic building materials. She is also the Director, as well as an artist, of 17th Street Studios, a work space for thirteen artists near downtown Knoxville.

Beth’s art is inherently southern and it speaks that message loud and clear. Her canning jar depictions are some of my favorite of her works, but her whimsical animal scenes are wonderful as well. There’s an earnestness about her work that is matched in her personality. I met her at a women’s networking event and instantly wanted to be her friend. She just seems so genuine and truly wants good for others.

I read in another interview about how she started a service project offering free rides to International students attending the University of Tennessee. All because she had been shown the same courtesy during her own study abroad and wanted to pay it forward.

I believe that inside all of us is a creative spark. It can come out in a multitude of ways if we only let it. I’m so glad that Beth Meadows calls Knoxville home and I’m so glad she is sharing her creative spark with our community. I hope you’ll check out her website http://withbearhands.com/ and maybe even buy a painting from her!