1971
“The cultural center of [Gatlinburg] should be Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. Continued construction of motels, shops and ‘attractions’ may soon reach a point in which congestion and commercialism might begin to outweigh the things that have made the town so attractive to visitors in the past. This tremendous economic pressure might be counterbalanced by a strong cultural force in the community.” – Harland Bartholomew & Associates, in submission of new comprehensive plan for City of Gatlinburg
The largest and most successful summer workshop was held in 1971 in seven sessions from June 14 – August 20, held in the new Emma Harper Turner Classroom Building. The total enrollment in 1971 was 750, with students coming from 38 states and 4 foreign countries – the Bahamas, Canada, England and the Virgin Islands.
“What a great summer we had – 306 more students than last year. People were calling from all over the country to try to get into classes. Many had to be turned away because we did no have enough dormitory rooms or laboratory space. At one session we had 121 students because some were financially able to live in motels. Our staff was excellent and most generous with their time and talents. They were much impressed with Arrowmont – the spirit, the high standards, the organization and the facilities.
The students were from all types of backgrounds, all ages and attending for all sorts of reasons. The young, as well as the older students, enjoy (after the first shock-wave) the intermingling of ages. This is an education for both. The young are astonished to learn that someone over 25 can be part of a group. The older ones are delighted to learn that many of these seemingly far-out students are just great young people.
Arrowmont has a great potential and we are wealthy in that we have a product much in demand and increasing each year with a fine reputation behind us of excellence. There is a long and exciting road ahead for full realization of the Arrowmont dream.” – Marian Heard, Director
