First Art Show at The Harper House
On March 22, 2025, a unique, charming venue will open in Washington County! A hundred-year-old restored sharecropper house will be transformed into a folk-art center. You are invited to this special, historic event! Come on out to 1430 Bartow Rd. (Hwy 242, just past Ridge Road), Sandersville, between 2 and 7 PM for the Grand Opening.
The Harper House, named for the family who raised ten children there, will be adorned with artwork by three celebrated professional folk artists from our region. Works by these artists will be available for purchase, or simply to view, be inspired by, and enjoy. The opening is free and all are welcome.
Miz Thang, aka Deb Garner, is originally from Sandersville and is half of the excellent Garner-Credle Estate Liquidators team. She has shown her artwork all over the southeast since 1998, at the Kentuck Festival of the Arts, the Atlanta Hartsfield Airport, the Smith Calloway Banks Southern Folk Art collection, and the Research Center at Georgia Southern University.
Valton Murray has lived all his life in Warren County and from a young age taught himself to paint his visions of the southern landscape around him. Valton has been honored by Governor Zell Miller, and his works featured by Georgia Power, at the Kennedy Performing Arts Center and the House of Blues.
Tim Goodson of Wadley is a wood sculptor who creates original furniture, crafts, and artwork. He is a member of the Jefferson County Artist’s Guild, and he is known for unique commissioned works of wood and metal.
These noted artists will launch the Harper House with a big splash! This first show will remain for one month, and the gallery will be open from noon till 6 PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday through April 19th. For future exhibits, local artists, including the children and youth of the community, will be invited to show their work. We envision at least two shows per year, in the fall and spring. The Harper House will also be available for reunions and meetings.
The Harper House is managed by Forest Grove Preserve, Inc., a nonprofit. The house was restored with funds granted by the Georgia Council for the Arts. Forest Grove Preserve’s mission is to make available to the people of middle Georgia the history, environment and art under its stewardship.
Put March 22 on your calendar and come on out Highway 242 just east of Ridge Road between 2 and 7 pm. Saucy Seafood will be on hand when you get hungry, selling seafood and other menu options. Another special treat - professional storyteller Jeanette Waddell from Hancock County will tell stories intermittently between the hours of 3 and 5. The show is free and all are welcome!