Arts & Culture

Scenic Roots

"Scenic Roots" offers conversations that matter in the heart of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley.From the mountains to the river, our conversations are rooted deep within every corner of our community - reflecting who we are, who we were and who we can become.We engage with the news that affects our community, behind and beyond the headlines. We build bridges that span from creators and innovators to storytellers and the outdoors. We focus on our challenges as many communities in one - as we celebrate what inspires us. We resonate with countless voices - in words and spaces, sounds and songs.We are "Scenic Roots."Ray Bassett hosts and produces "Scenic Roots" at WUTC.

How Artists In Transition Helps Chattanooga’s Homeless

WUTC | By Ray Bassett

Published June 28, 2021 at 3:46 PM EDT

Help Right Here is a nonprofit that helps the growing homeless population here in Chattanooga.

One of its programs - Artists in Transition - aims to break the stigma around homelessness.

Artists currently or recently homeless create and sell their own artwork, raising money for themselves - and for the nonprofit.

Help Right Here, photographer Amy McKay - and Rik Hermann, curator of the Wanderlinger Art Gallery - gather with the artists to paint, sketch and photograph.

The Locals Only gift shop supports Help Right Here - and together, they are asking for people to contribute art supplies for the program.

I spoke with Ann-Marie Fitzsimmons of Help Right Here, Amy McKay and artist John Rankin - who all joined us via Zoom from a homeless camp in Chattanooga - and with Danielle Landrum, co-owner of Locals Only.