TTU Renews Lease For Appalachian Center For Craft

Tennessee Tech has renewed its cost-free lease with the U.S. Army Department for the Appalachian Center for Craft.

Director Kimberly Winkle said the 25-year lease is for the use of the land at Center Hill Dam and Reservoir.

“Our original lease started in 1965,” Winkle said. “The Joe L. Evins Appalachian Center for Craft was funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission and construction on the project began in 1977.”

Winkle said the first classes were held at the craft center in 1977, but it officially became a part of the university in the 1980’s. Winkle said not much has changed in the new lease besides $2.8 million of capital projects funded by the state such as HVAC replacements and roof repairs.

“They lease us the land at no cost and in exchange, we are good stewards of the land and also the facilities on the land, which is comprised of about 500 acres,” Winkle said.

Winkle said the center is used for several programs and instruction like glassblowing, blacksmithing and ceramics. Winkle said the public can also view several galleries of work.

“During the school year, we offer a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts degree, which is our primary programming here at the Craft Center,” Winkle said. “(…) During the summer, we have non-academic community building programs that range from one week to a weekend and we also offer outreach programs to high schools.”