A little tasting, a little art exposure and a lot of Southern hospitality was experienced at the annual Sip and Saveur event held downtown on Saturday. The event is presented by the Junior Auxiliary of McMinnville, with Becky Collier and Amanda Collier serving as project chairs.
Approximately 200 tickets were sold for the event, with guests able to participate in the art crawl, and partake in wine and food tastings. Live music was provided by The Lund McVey Group, and Assisted Living.
Seventeen sites were open for guests, each showcasing an area of the arts. Photographers, various artists, historic displays, jewelers, an author and a fiber artist were on hand to visit with guests, some even selling their artwork.
Magness Library presented artwork by local artist Ramona Mathis, and nature photography by Jay Walker. A display of historic photographs from the library archives was displayed, with copies available for purchase.
“I’m inspired by Jay’s photographs, and try my best to recreate some of them in my paintings,” said Mathis. “My favorite is 'Smokey Mountain Sunrise,' with 'Mt. LeConte Llamas' coming a close second.”
Trendy Trunk had an impressive display of hors d’oeuvres, featuring homemade chocolate truffles, grapes, french bread, and a cheese selection to pair with their wine.
“This event is a great thing because it brings people downtown, and it is helping the Junior Auxiliary with their many community projects,” said Ann Hawkins.
An interesting display submitted by Warren County High School art students was featured in the Chamber of Commerce community room. A non-alcoholic punch was served, making it possible for students to be in attendance.
WCHS visual arts and photography teacher Amy Seiber said, “This is all students. Several are here and they love to talk to folks about their artwork. Some are for sale, some for a silent auction, and some just for display. I am so proud of all of them.”
Student artists Isaac Wilcher and Marynia Harris were talking with people about their artwork and their dreams for the future.
Wilcher described her work as having a dreamy aspect, with lots of soft colors and glitter.
“I like to draw girls. They are easy, but very beautiful,” said Wilcher.
She hopes to include art in her future plans, majoring in studio art at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
“My dream school is Savannah College of Art and Design, and my dream job is to work at Marvel,” said Wilcher.
Harris was most proud of her drawing of Walt Disney, which she did not want to sell. She says to produce quality artwork, you must practice and practice some more.
“Practice is important, but you have to have the desire and drive to succeed,” said Harris.
The Colliers want to acknowledge the many sponsors who came together to help with the success of the event, making it possible to fund their many community projects, including Hopping into Health, the Yankee Doodle Parade, Coats for the Community, Crown Club on Hamilton Street and Christmas in the Park.
“Our fourth Sip and Saveur was successful,” said Amanda. “We are excited to bring an event like this to McMinnville, especially to include the art element and art exposure. We feel this enriches the lives of everyone involved, and we look forward to next year.”
Becky is the current Junior Auxiliary president, and welcomes all who want more info about the organization to email jamcminnville@gmail.com, or reach out through their Facebook page.
