BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — The valley reverberated with music and color Friday as the first-ever Appalachian Artist Festival unfolded in Inez, drawing hundreds to the town.
Pioneered by Inez City Commissioner Jennifer Wells, the festival came to life with the backing of Mayor Ed Daniels and the Inez City Commission.
“The first Appalachian Artist Festival absolutely exceeded all my expectations,” said an elated Wells. “I’m truly thankful that everyone could come out and enjoy the day together while supporting all of the talented local artisans that were able to join us.”
Artists from both local and regional areas found a free space to present and sell their creations. Nonstop musical concerts behind the Government Center kept the crowd flowing and the energy and excitement high from morning till late into the night.
“I hope everyone had a great time … and that this event continues to grow and be a platform for all artists to showcase their talents,” remarked Wells. “We have so much talent in these mountains.”
Mayor Daniels showered gratitude on the residents of Martin County and “especially the residents of Inez.” Not missing the chance, he praised Wells for her tireless work.
“She took on the burden of putting this festival together,” Daniels said.
He further added, “We aim to make this an annual event. Our goal is to give a reason to come to our community.”
In light of the event’s success, Wells and Daniels had long lists of thank-you notes. Those lists included the Martin County community, each other, county and city officials and employees, the City of Inez, Martin County Tourism, Martin County Fiscal Court, Kiwanis Club of Greater Martin County KY, Addiction Recovery Care White Oak Hill, Inez Volunteer Fire Department, Dirty Work Septic Service, William Workman, The Mountain Citizen, Coach Josh Muncy and the Martin County football players and cheerleaders, musicians Jack Ward, Sandra Coleman, Rose M. Crum, The MoonDogs, Erin Grace Rudd, Paige Maynard, Bradley Goble, The Webb Twins, Cody McCoy, Tob Branham, Jordan Lee King, Jayce Turley & Cardinal Point, Phill Barnett and Danna Barnett, and all visual artists and vendors.
