BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — Downtown Inez will come alive Aug. 2 as the Appalachian Artist Festival transforms Court Street into a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture.
From handcrafted paints and pixel art to haunting tales, earthy aromas, craft brews and mouthwatering eats, the AFF vendor market promises a one-of-a-kind sensory experience. Artists, authors, makers and culinary talents will converge in a colorful showcase of storytelling, craftsmanship and Appalachian flavor.
Nature-inspired paints
Earth Arrow Pigments, a Kentucky-based maker of natural watercolor and oil paints, will bring its artisanal products to Court Street.
Founded by artist and environmentalist Aro Wilson, the company is rooted in a love for nature and sustainability. Wilson says the journey began with a desire to “capture the colors around her” while crafting environmentally conscious paints.
“My main focus is getting my pigments from natural ingredients sourced directly from the earth,” she states on her website. “My passion for artistry and commitment to environmental stewardship come together in every color and paint we create.”
She creates her small-batch paints from raw materials, many of which are foraged by hand, resulting in colors that are deeply connected to the land and often unique.
“There is beauty in the idea that the art we create has a connection to our lands,” she says. “Each pan of paint we create is going to be special, some even being completely one-of-a-kind.”
‘When the Mountains Speak’
Inez native Lyndsey Horn, M.A., CCC‑SLP, will present her first self-published and self-illustrated children’s book,
“When the Mountains Speak.”
This 32-page picture book brings the Appalachian Mountains to life for young readers, encouraging them to listen for the stories the mountains might tell. Written in lyrical, evocative language, the book fosters a deep appreciation for nature’s presence and our connection to the mountains.
Merlyn Made Macrame
Merlyn Made Macrame will offer a lively mix of handcrafted goods ranging from earrings and necklaces to macrame décor, stickers and more.
Created by Lyndsey S. Horn, these pieces reflect artistic flair across multiple media, including macrame, acrylics, vinyl and etching. Many items can be personalized or custom-ordered.
Whether you are drawn to boho aesthetics or just want to add a touch of handmade charm to your life, Horn’s booth is worth a visit. She accepts cash, Venmo and PayPal.
Appalachian horror and gothic goods
Appalachian author and jewelry maker Katherine Hale Stringfield will bring a dose of eerie enchantment to the festival.
A native of Auxier, Stringfield is best known for her supernatural novel “The Mary Luck Tales: Witch’s Curse,” set in a haunted coal-mining town in eastern Kentucky.
Stringfield will offer signed copies of the book alongside a collection of Gothic-themed merchandise, including T-shirts, wooden totems, keychains, jewelry and other handcrafted items.
The first in a planned trilogy, “Witch’s Curse” follows 13-year-old Ruby Lee Collins as she unearths a dark legend and races to stop it before Halloween night. The book has earned praise for its atmospheric storytelling, Appalachian themes and 1980s setting.
Fans of spooky stories will not want to miss Stringfield’s booth.
Hand-woven alpaca creations
Silver Run Ranch Alpacas of Catlettsburg will bring a fusion of art and agriculture to the event.
Owner Kevin Toney will showcase his hand-dyed, hand-woven creations made from 100% alpaca fiber sourced from his own herd. His lineup includes scarves, shawls, ponchos, blankets and even Western saddle blankets, each crafted with care.
Toney has exhibited at juried shows throughout the region. His work has reached homes across the U.S. and in nearly a dozen countries.
Earthy scents
Pikeville-based Kentucky Tribe Candle Company will fill the air with scents inspired by Kentucky’s natural beauty.
Founder Alicia Justice handcrafts concrete candles, wax melts, room sprays and car diffusers using scent profiles that evoke wildflowers, fresh air, earthy trails and native fruits.
“I want each candle to feel like coming home to the soul of Kentucky,” she says.
Justice’s offerings are a refreshing alternative to sugary or synthetic fragrances, appealing to those who love the outdoors and appreciate grounding, authentic aromas.
Flash tattoos
Tattoo artist Allie Fissler will offer a rare chance for attendees to take home a permanent piece of Appalachia. Working from a flash sheet of simple, pre-drawn designs inspired by the region, Fissler will tattoo live in the historic Martin County Courthouse.
She is an artist at Iron and Ash Tattoos in Inez.
Healing mission
Cati Christian and CLT Farms Equestrian Healing Center will combine art and outreach at their festival booth.
In addition to offering custom woodburn crafts, leather goods and handmade items, CLT will share information about their equine-assisted healing programs.
Based in Inez, the center is the region’s only Equine Experiential Education-certified healing facility. CLT provides horse-assisted activities that foster mindfulness, emotional wellness and personal growth.
Christian leads both therapeutic and recreational sessions, including riding and mounted archery lessons. Visitors can learn more—and even sign up for an armored combat adventure.
Pixel art
The Pix-Ture Shop of Pikeville will bring pixelated fun for fans of retro gaming and handmade art.
Founded by Sallie Lowe, the shop features colorful bead creations, including Pokémon favorites and custom pixel art. These nostalgic pieces are great for collectors, kids and anyone who loves playful creativity.
‘Me and Poverty’
Author Joseph Little will present his debut memoir, “Me and Poverty: A Journey of Inspiration and Escape,” along with themed bookmarks.
The book recounts Little’s powerful journey from generational poverty, addiction and trauma to a life of faith, education and purpose.
Attendees can meet Little, hear his story and purchase a signed copy of the memoir, which has already gained recognition for its honesty and uplifting message.
Freeze-dried treats
Miss 10 Below will offer freeze-dried snacks, sweet goodies and pet treats perfect for curious taste buds and furry friends alike.
Maw & Paw’s Knick-Knacks
Located inside the historic Martin County Courthouse, Maw & Paw’s Knick-Knacks invites visitors to step into a nostalgic nook where stories live on.
This exhibit showcases treasures: heirlooms, gadgets, handmade tools and keepsakes that reflect Appalachian heritage, creativity and culture. Every item on display carries a tale worth sharing.
Quilt display
In keeping with Appalachian Artist Festival tradition, handmade quilts will once again be on display inside the historic Martin County Courthouse. These quilts, each stitched with care, reflect artistry passed down through generations.
Savory eats and sips
Folks will find no shortage of delicious food and beverage options at this year’s festival.
Beat the heat with an ice-cold cup of the Kiwanis Club’s world-famous hand-squeezed lemonade.
Lovers of locally brewed beer can stop by Blue Stallion Brewing Company of Lexington for an ice-cold drink.
Adding a spirited touch of moonshine, Kentucky Mist Distillery of Letcher County will be pouring shots and mixed drinks, selling bottles and offering loaded teas and beer at their booth.
For those craving something hearty to pair with a drink, Angie’s Blooming Onions & More of Inez will serve up festival favorites. Think blooming onions, Philly steaks, hot dogs, hamburgers, fried pickles, funnel cakes, fries and signature loaded Philly blooming onions.
Wee Doggies of Debord promises a fully loaded menu: Hot dog, vegetable soup, nachos, fries, pulled pork, ice cream, milkshakes, lemonade, tea, sodas and more.
Rounding out the current food lineup, Last Stop Café of Louisa will offer BBQ pork, hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, snow cones, cheese and more.
Vendor deadline
The deadline for vendors to apply for a spot in the Appalachian Artist Festival vendor market is July 25. Fees are as follows: $40 for artisan vendors, $50 for those requiring electrical hookups, $25 for information booths, $100 for food vendors and $250 for alcohol vendors.
For more information and to apply, visit the Appalachian Artist Festival on Facebook.
