BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Folks had a chance to showcase their abilities and art forms in front of a crowd Monday night. Poets, musicians, singers, visual artists and storytellers gathered at the Collier Center for a different experience.

Open Mic Night was hosted by Stories of Place, and the audience provided an array of reactions.

“It was refreshing to witness all kinds of Appalachian talent getting to have a light shined on their various art,” Inez resident Rose M. Crum said. “Some kids who are multitalented in other lanes were able to get up and showcase that.”

Young and old displayed their creativity. Performances kept the audience engaged. Some acts gave the audience material to reflect on, while others were more lighthearted.

“A lot of it touched my heart,” said Crum, whose band Creekside Country performed. “When you hear a kid say, ‘This is the first time I have sung over a microphone … I usually only sing in my bedroom …’ then they perform a great song, you’re just like ‘Wow!’ …What a wonderful thing that Noah Thompson is the Idol winner, but we most definitely have talented kids who could very well be the next one right here from Martin County.

Arianna Fletcher shared her art piece “SafePlace,” a painting of the covered bridge on Whickerfield in Inez.

“It’s where I go when I can’t get my thoughts straightened out,” Fletcher said. “It’s my favorite place to take pictures when the scenery changes with the season.”

Fletcher, a 2020 graduate of Martin County High School, says growing up in a small town, she was surrounded by good people and amazing memories.

“I’m so happy that this event took place to showcase all of the history and stories Martin County has,” she said.

Fletcher’s boyfriend, Tyler Edwards, performed for the first time in front of an audience and a microphone.

“He did absolutely amazing, and I was so happy everyone else got to hear the talent he has,” said Fletcher.

University of Kentucky student Liz Stayton, an event organizer who has been conducting Stories of Place interviews and recording stories in Martin County the past year, said participants did not have to audition to participate.

“All they needed to do was show up,” Stayton said. “It was an opportunity to gather with like-minded people while eating pizza and experiencing an evening of art.”

Stories of Place is a community-based project to bring storytelling and special memories of home into the daily lives of Martin County residents. The cross-generational involvement began in Martin County in 2018 between Livelihoods Knowledge Exchange Network (LiKEN), Martin County School District (especially Martin County High School), the University of Kentucky and community members.

LiKEN community engagement coordinator Madison Mooney was amazed by the turnout. About 15 people performed before an audience of more than 60.

“All walks of life here in Martin County — young, older, retired teachers, students, teachers, residents — people who love Martin County — came together to be a part of this event,” Mooney said.

MCHS students had a huge hand in creating, organizing and presenting the event.

“Taylor True’s 10th grade English class was able to be hands-on with the set and props for this space,” said Mooney. “They truly put their heart and soul into every piece of artwork and brick backdrop.”

Mooney is looking forward to future events and open mic nights.

“Be proud of your roots and voice your stories always,” she said.