Those coming into Smithville can’t miss the new Off the Beaten Path sign just off Cookeville Highway, the sign officially installed this past week with several people on-hand to show their support for the annual art tour.

 Jessica Higgins, Director of Marketing and Promotions for Off the Beaten Path which was established in 1999, said a private donation by long-time supporters Robin and Kristie Driver of Center Hill Realty made the sign possible.

Claudia Lee, President of OTBP, said the group has about 14 studios that are open the public for three days the last full weekend of October. The event allows the public to visit the various studios and also offers price saving to those who want to buy art during their tour. A map of the businesses is made available for those who want to take the whole tour and meet a wide array of artists.

“For the public, they get to visit artist studios and see what we’re doing because we kind of hibernate all year in our studios working,” she said. “For us (artists) it’s great because we get to meet the community.”

Lee said she hopes the sign will attract attention since it’s located on the main highway as motorists come into town.

“Hopefully people who don’t know about us will go check out our website,” she said. “The community has been great and very supportive.”

Lee noted that the event is free and family friendly. “People come for all over the country,” she said. “It’s amazing.”