Carpe Artista began as a question written on a napkin at a local coffee shop:
How could a group of local artists transform a town through quality arts education and community development?
Eight years after that question, Carpe Artista is a thriving organization that provides arts instruction for hundreds of children and adult s each year, attracts thousands to its festivals, and has acted as the catalyst for the revitalization and restoration of a two-mile-long stretch of heavily-traveled roads that has been dubbed the Bridge-to-Bridge Project.
The history is one of steady – and scrappy – growth through persistent and passion-driven efforts, generous volunteers and donors, and many ongoing prayers.
Carpe Artista has added a new dimension to the quality of life in Smyrna. Whether it is through a music class, theater camp or any of the other opportunities for the people of Smyrna – young and old – Carpe Artista has led the way. An active arts program creates opportunities for self-expression, enjoyment and a sense of community. Through Carpe Artista, people come together who might not otherwise come into contact with each other.
Testimonies
Garrett
Garrett had been unable to return to school for a year after he suffered a traumatic brain injury in an accident. He attended this Summer’s rock camp and experienced two firsts since the accident: playing drums again and, according to his grandmother, his first smile! We’re happy to report his mother said Garret was able to return to school this Fall, largely due to restored confidence found through Carpe Artista camp.
Joshua
After five years of private piano, voice and composition lessons with Carpe Academy, Joshua wrote a piece for concert band all on his own. He composed it on the piano and then played it into computer software where he then arranged
Addie, Noah, & Micah
Special needs siblings adopted from China, Addie, Noah
Founding
2011 – Ron launches Carpe Artista. He is quickly joined by Susan Gulley. Carpe Academy Lessons and Summer Camps begin.
The First Two Years
Hanger Party at airport, Depot Days partnership with SiMA, lessons, camps, and search for the perfect place for a cafe…
Carpe Cafe
The “Art of coffee and so much more…” coffee shop opens for business in January, 2014 featuring food, drink, art and music.
Awards
Carpe Cafe, Carpe Academy, and camps have been recipients of multiple Daily News Journal Ruthies Awards.
Simply Smyrna Celebration
Carpe Artista threw the first annual street party for Smyrna and North Rutherford County in June of 2014.
SiMA's Depot Days
Carpe Artista is the entertainment provider and coordinator for this long-standing event held each Sept. in the Historic Depot District of Smyrna
Smyrna Farmers Market
For several years Carpe Artista has provided the promotional and logistical support for this Summer long Saturday market.
Support for Smyrna Parks and Rec
Carpe Artista is the go-to partner for the many annual and holiday activities provided by the Town of Smyrna.
101 Front Street
The former Marable and Weakley Dept. store is being transformed into a Cafe, meeting, gallery, performance, and more space for the community.
Revitalization Plans
Senior Staff has been invited by Smyrna Town and Rutherford County officials to participate in revitalization planning task forces.
Grants
Programming grants have been awarded by the TN Arts Commission, The Community Foundation, The Predators, Kohl’s, and Walmart.
Join Us!
Won’t you join us in building the Arts in Smyrna and North Rutherford County? Get involved as a volunteer, donor or sponsor.
“At Carpe Artista we understand the power of art to influence peoples lives, attitudes and behavior. That’s why we continually challenge our staff, volunteers and students to consider the power of their creativity to impact the world in which they live in positive ways.
“I am very proud that part of the “impact” of our organization is being seen in the continued revitalization of the newly named Historic Depot District in Smyrna.
“But the impact I am most excited about is the growth we continue to see in the lives of our students. They are accepting the challenge that we have put before them to grow in their creative skill and see the power of their art to impact their community and world.”