After the spectacular 250th Anniversary of Independence Day, keep the festivities going at the Painted Fern Art Festival, returning to downtown Clayton July 11 and 12 and welcoming art lovers into a cool, comfortable space filled with creativity. As the North Georgia Arts Guild’s premier members’ show, the festival brings together more than 40 artists–both established and emerging–showcasing original works in painting, jewelry, clay, wood, metal, fiber, floral design, glass, photography, and multimedia. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or treating yourself, you’re sure to discover a piece that inspires.
The festival also celebrates artistic excellence. At the 2025 event, Diane Rush earned the People’s Choice Award for her exceptional painting, while Wynelle Garrity received the Producers’ Choice Award for her beautiful pottery.
Visitors can stop by the NGAG Bake Sale in the Lobby Tea Room for homemade sweet and savory treats–and even take home a casserole or pot of soup. Proceeds support the Guild’s Art Scholarship Program, established in 2015 to award $1,000 scholarships to high‑school seniors pursuing art in college. As of the Class of 2026, the Guild has awarded 42 scholarships to talented students in Rabun and Habersham counties. As one past recipient shared, “The NGAG scholarship made it possible for me to attend art school and follow my dream.”
Back by popular demand, ART‑4‑A‑BUCK! offers festivalgoers the chance to win an original work of art for just one dollar. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5, with no limit on how many you can buy.
The Painted Fern Art Festival takes place the second weekend in July at the Rabun County Civic Center, 201 W. Savannah Street. Hours are Saturday 10:00 A.M.–5:00 P.M. and Sunday 10:00 A.M.–4:00 P.M., with free admission and parking.
Mark your calendars and come experience the creativity of North Georgia.
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