Hickory – The Women’s Resource Center (WRC) invites the community to its signature annual fundraising event, Art in the Park, on Saturday, September 12, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Sally Fox Park, located on the campus of the Women’s Resource Center.
Now in its sixth year, Art in the Park is more than an art festival—it’s a celebration of community, resilience, and hope. This free, family-friendly event will feature talented local artists, handcrafted goods, an exciting silent auction, live music, food vendors, children’s activities, and opportunities to learn more about the Women’s Resource Center’s life-changing programs and services.
A featured highlight of this year’s event is the Janice and Ted Taylor Legacy of Art Competition, which celebrates the power of art to inspire, connect, and tell meaningful stories. This year’s theme, “Rooted and Rising,” invites artists to explore the strength that comes from honoring their roots while embracing growth, resilience, and new possibilities. Entries will be judged on how creatively and effectively they interpret the theme, with the First Place Artist receiving a $500 cash prize.
Artists interested in participating in the competition are encouraged to contact Michelle Morgan at 828-322-6333 for more information or register online at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ulOsbIeNZFT1yI183qahLIwY3A86uYQ2G5V2EJnV55U/
Women’s Resource Center is grateful for the support of Arts Culture Catawba, whose $4,000 Project Pool Grant is helping make this year’s Art in the Park possible. Their investment in local arts and community initiatives strengthens opportunities for artists while supporting WRC’s mission of empowering women and families throughout our region
Every dollar raised through Art in the Park directly supports the Women’s Resource Center’s mission of empowering women and families throughout Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties. Through individualized resource coaching, advocacy, emergency pantry, mental health counseling, and other supportive services, WRC helps women move from surviving to thriving.
“Art has a unique way of bringing people together,” said Michelle Morgan, Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Center. “Art in the Park is a beautiful reflection of our community’s generosity and creativity. Every painting purchased, every silent auction bid, every vendor visited, and every donation made helps us provide hope, dignity, and practical support to women facing some of life’s most difficult challenges. Together, we’re not only celebrating local artists—we’re helping transform lives.”
Guests can browse artwork from local painters, potters, woodworkers, jewelers, photographers, fiber artists, and other creative makers, bid on unique items and experiences in the silent auction, enjoy live entertainment and delicious food, and spend a relaxing afternoon in one of Hickory’s most beautiful outdoor settings. Admission is free, making Art in the Park an event everyone can enjoy.
Community members are encouraged to attend, shop local, support regional artists, participate in the silent auction, and invest in programs that strengthen women and families throughout our region.
Those interested in becoming a sponsor, artist, volunteer, or donor are encouraged to contact Bridget DeVos, Women’s Resource Center Development Coordinator, for more information: developmentcoordinator@wrchickory.org
About Women’s Resource Center
Founded in 1987, the Women’s Resource Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women through individualized support, resource coaching, education, emergency assistance, and connections to community resources. Serving Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties, WRC works every day to help women overcome barriers, build stability, and create brighter futures for themselves and their families.
