5 Ways to Get Creative in Brown County

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Notes from Tanglewood Hideaway: Brown County Highlights – This is a weekly email I send sharing things to do, local updates, and ideas for everyday life in Brown County. 👉 [Join the newsletter here]

Sunset over rolling hills in Brown County with silhouetted trees and glowing clouds. Text reads Notes from Tanglewood Hideaway Brown County Highlights.

Five ways to spark creativity in Brown County. Feeling uninspired? These might help.

It’s happening—spring is actually on its way in Brown County!

Today is the first official day of spring and the daffodils and forsythia are blooming, I’m hearing more birds every morning, and the spring peeper frogs are making their return.

And honestly? I AM SO READY FOR IT. Even though I’ve come to love winter here, this time of year always makes me itch to get outside and create something.

Luckily, Brown County has been a haven for artists and makers for over a century, and it’s still one of the most inspiring places I know to explore your creativity.

So if you’re feeling that same pull toward something new, here are five ways to shake off winter and invite a little more creativity into your life the next time you’re in Brown County:

1️⃣ Try a hands-on workshop

Whether you want to paint, print, or craft something entirely unique, Our Little World Studio and Second Story Studio have fantastic make-and-take options and instructor-led art classes.

No matter how you prefer to create, these two magical spots have something for everyone. So check out their offerings, pick your favorite, and give yourself permission to just play.

2️⃣ Wander through the galleries

If you love seeing how different artists interpret the world, the Brown County Art Guild and the Brown County Art Gallery are worth a visit. They showcase everything from classic Brown County painters to contemporary artists, and they just feel like inspiring spaces to be in.

3️⃣ Find hidden art around town

Brown County is full of unexpected creativity—murals, sculptures, and tucked-away pieces of public art that brighten even the grayest days.

I put together this guide to ALL of Nashville’s murals, sculptures, and public art if you want to take yourself on a self-guided art walk the next time you’re in town.

4️⃣ Visit a working studio

There’s something magical about watching an artist create, and Brown County is home to so many amazing makers and artists.

“Art” isn’t limited to paintings here, so stop by Lawrence Family Glass Blowers to see molten glass take shape or visit Moonshine Leather to watch handcrafted leather goods come to life.

The Brown County Backroads Studio Tour isn’t until October, but it’s another great way to see artists at work.

5️⃣ Give yourself space to create

And this one? This is what I built the REIGNITE Retreat for.

It’s a four-day women’s retreat designed to help you reconnect with your creativity in a relaxed, inspiring setting. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just craving a creative reset, the REIGNITE Retreat is a chance to step away from daily life, experiment with new artistic techniques, and connect with like-minded women.

We had so much fun at the last two retreats, and this next one—June 8-11, 2025—is shaping up to be the best yet.

If this sounds like something you’d love, click here for more information. Early Bird pricing is available through March 31, so now’s a great time to grab your spot!

I’d love to know—what’s inspiring you lately? If you check out any of these, I’d love to hear what sparks something for you!

Remember, you don’t have to go far to get away.

Kara

P.S. If you want an at-home way to get back into creativity, The Artist’s Way is one of my favorite books. I worked through it last year and am starting it again soon. If you’ve done it before—or decide to try it—let me know! The daily “pages” alone are a game-changer.

A group of women at the REIGNITE Retreat stand around the fire on the rooftop patio at the Brown County Barn Burner as they discuss and release limiting beliefs.

Creativity, connection, and a little bit of firelight magic—REIGNITE is more than a retreat; it’s a reset. Give yourself the space to explore, unwind, and create with a group of inspiring women this June in Brown County. Get more info and sign up here.