Sheffield, AL The Old Railroad Bridge, located on the south side of the Tennessee River, accessible from Ashe Blvd., Sheffield, will be the festive scene of “A Brush with the Bridge” Art Festival on October 20, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Artists from across the Shoals area and from the surrounding areas will gather on the pedestrian span to enjoy the spectacular view of the river as they paint the scenic landscape that is visible from this point.
“October weather is generally cooperative and the fall color peaks about this time of year, providing the optimum setting for an art festival,” said Susann Hamlin, Executive Director of the Colbert County Tourism & Convention Bureau, in encouraging artists’ participation in the day-long event. “Others are invited to come out to watch the artists paint and to enjoy this brand new event, which is sponsored by the Old Railroad Bridge Company.” There is no charge for the public.
Artists must pre-register. A $20 artists’ registration fee payable with application will benefit the Old Railroad Bridge, a Shoals landmark. The stone pillars of the bridge pre-date the Civil War, when the upper portion of it was burned by Confederate troops in an effort to thwart Union invasion of the area. During the 1800’s and early twentieth century the bridge served as the crossing for street cars as well as trains.
For more information or to mail your artists’ registration check (made payable to the Old Railroad Bridge Company), contact Dave Reasons, 130 Cedar Crest Drive, Florence, AL 35630; 256-415-7721 or ripnrun2007@gmail.com.
PHOTOS-SHERI WIGGINS
