ART Clinton 2026 Festival Brings Month-Long Celebration of the Arts to Downtown Clinton
May 11, 2026
Downtown Clinton is alive with creativity this month as ART Clinton 2026, now in its third year, brings a month-long celebration of the visual arts to the heart of the city. Organized by Jeannie Browning of the Clinton Art Gallery, the festival showcases local and regional artistic talent while drawing visitors into businesses throughout the community.
The centerpiece of the festival is an exhibit featuring artwork by more than 30 artists displayed in businesses across downtown Clinton. The exhibit spans three categories: painting and other two-dimensional work, sculpture and three-dimensional pieces, and textiles, which includes any handmade needlework or fiber art. The central gallery is located at 110 Musgrove Street, beside House of Pizza.
A highlight of the month will be the Awards Reception on Thursday, May 21, at 6:30 p.m. at 110 Musgrove Street, where first, second, and third place cash prizes will be awarded in each category. The evening will feature live music and light food, and most of the artwork on display will be available for purchase.
The festival also includes several interactive events open to the public. On Saturday, May 16, Art Battles will take place near the Depot on the Square, where registered adult artists will have just 20 minutes to paint an announced subject. A children’s Paint Out kicks off at 10 a.m., followed by the adult competition at 11 a.m. Attendees are invited to vote for their favorite. Throughout the month, plein air painting opportunities allow artists to check in with Browning and choose an outdoor scene to capture on canvas.
Browning, who has been the driving force behind the festival since its launch, says the event is about more than just art on walls. “Clinton is full of artists, and ART Clinton exists to give them a place to shine and invite the whole community into that creative spark,” Browning said. “Whether you paint, sculpt, do needlework, or just love to appreciate what others create, there is something here for everyone.”
For more information or to participate as an artist in the Art Battles or plein air events, contact Jeannie Browning directly by message or text.
