A unique community art project in downtown LaFayette is celebrating its first anniversary by inviting local artists of all ages to take part in a month-long tiny art contest.
The BEE Happy Gallery, a free little art gallery located along the sidewalk in front of the Walker County African American Museum, has spent the past year encouraging creativity and connection through small works of art shared freely with the public.
The miniature gallery operates on a simple concept: visitors can take artwork, enjoy it, and experience creativity without any expectation of leaving something in return. Since opening, the gallery has become a colorful community feature, offering an ever-changing collection of tiny paintings, pottery, sculptures, jewelry, and other handmade creations.
To celebrate the gallery’s anniversary on May 16, organizers have launched the first-ever Tiny Art Contest throughout the month of May. Participants can enter by placing their artwork in the gallery, taking a photo of it, and tagging The BEE Happy Gallery on social media. Entries can also be submitted by mail.
At the end of the month, submitted artwork photos will be compiled for an online community vote. The winning artist will receive a $50 gift certificate to an art store of their choice. Contest submissions will be accepted through May 31.
Organizers said the gallery’s success over the past year has been made possible through strong community support. Special thanks were extended to Roper Corporation for constructing the gallery, along with volunteers from the Catoosa Homeschool Beta Club and the many local artists who have donated miniature artwork.
In addition to the main gallery, a rotating special exhibit section regularly highlights local artists and makers, featuring works from painters, potters, sculptors, jewelry makers, and other creatives whose donated pieces eventually become part of the public art exchange.
Community members are encouraged to stop by the gallery, participate in the contest, or simply enjoy the ongoing exchange of art and creativity.
The BEE Happy Gallery is located at 309 North Main Street in LaFayette. More information can be found on the gallery’s Facebook and Instagram pages or by emailing [email protected].