The Monte Sano Art Show originated in 1999 when Debra Simpson, an artist residing in the Monte Sano Community, wished to establish a show in an outdoor setting that would be similar to those found at Plum Nelly and the Kentuck Festival. With a group of friends, Debra made plans for the first show which was held on October 30, 1999 in the parking lot of the Monte Sano Assessment and Enrichment Center at 820 Monte Sano Blvd. with approximately thirty (30) artists participating. With those same friends and a few others recruited over the years, Debra and her friends have generously volunteered their time and energy to make this one of the best outdoor art shows in the area for artists and visitors alike. The current setting in Monte Sano State Park is magnificent, the art is incredible, the show is well organized.

Each year artists are invited to return and new artists are invited. A selection panel reviews all entries on the basis of three recent photos or slides representing the type of work the artist wishes to exhibit. A wide diversity of artists and media are exhibited. Commercial kits, molds, etc., may not be exhibited. The Monte Sano Art Show Association, Inc. which was established in February, 2003, reserves the right to review and approve all works to be exhibited.

Autumn in the Tennessee Valley is always a challenge for forecasters, we have held the Monte Sano Art Show in a variety of weather conditions, from fog, to cold, and even a light drizzle. But, the weather has never dampened the spirit of our volunteers, artists, or attendees.

The 2nd, October 28, 2000 at the Monte Sano Club and Pool

The 3rd Annual Monte Sano Arts & Crafts Show, was held Saturday, October 27,2001 at the Monte Sano Club and Pool, 3603 Georgetta on a beautiful fall day with golden leaves covering the ground

The 4th Annual Monte Sano Art Show was held Saturday, October 26,2002, at the Monte Sano Club and Pool in spite of a light rain and cold weather.

The 5th Annual Monte Sano Art Show was held Saturday, September 20, 2003, at the Monte Sano Club and Pool on a beautiful summer-like day.

The 6th Annual Monte Sano Art Show was held Saturday, September 19, 2004 at Monte Sano State Park with over 100 artists participating.

The 7th Annual Monte Sano Art Show was held Saturday, September 18, 2005 at Monte Sano State Park with over 110 artists participating.

The 8th Annual Art Show, held September 16, 2006, with over 130 participating artists.

The 9th Annual Art Show, held September 15, 2007, with over 150 participants.

The 10th Annual Art Show was held September 20th, 2008 with over 165 participants.

The 11th Annual Art Show held 19 September, and was plagued by rain. We had over 160 artists registered to participate with only a few who opted not to show. Many of our artists had their most successful show ever, selling all of the pieces.

We have held the show at Monte Sano State Park since 2005 and will continue holding the show there! What a wonderful setting.

Volunteers throughout the years have included Mary Champion, Katrina Weber, Trish Harper, Debra Simpson, Lue English, Marcia Leonard, Doris Fandre, Avery Harris, George Shattuck, Judy Smith, Peggy Sammon, Patricia Sammon, Jackie Miller, Julie Webb, Rebekah Sanders, Dana Bathurst, Sara Beth Fair, Demetra Haymes. Volunteers for children’s art have included Jackie Miller, Barbara Staggs, Paul and Peggy Jacobs, Robert Miller, John and John Allen, Evan and Julie Webb, Zac Simpson, Gerry Simpson, Kerri Satterfield.

Sponsors have included The Pinnix Group, The Huntsville Times, Buffalo Rock, Connie Blau, Dr. Bill English, Dr. Paul Lees-Haley, Gerry Simpson, The Valley Planet.

Activities have included live music by Katrina and Chuck Weber, Phil Weaver, Bob and Cathy White, Ed Baggott and Elsie Peterson, Coty Cockrell, Sam Lewis, Rhythm for the Savage Masses, a local percussion group,and the Maple Hill Band, and Mor4, storytelling, children’s art, face painting, Japanese dancers, dramatic players, food vendors.