Amanda March of Old City Market
When and how did the Old City Market start?
The Old City Market got its start in 2018. At the time, the only other option in town was the Market Square Farmers’ Market, and a lot of local artists were having a hard time getting in. The Old City Association saw the need for another space where fine artists could share their work, so the OCM was born!
Why should visitors to Knoxville seek out the Old City Market?
Because the talent here is incredible. The Old City Market is carefully curated to highlight some of Knoxville’s diverse makers. Whether you’re here for a week or just passing through, the market gives you a taste of what makes Knoxville The Maker City. If you love unique, locally made goods, this is the spot you don’t want to miss.
What are some of your favorite wares at the OCM?
Honestly, too many to count. The variety and creativity our vendors bring is amazing, and you can really feel the passion behind their work. Personally, I can’t resist the scents from the soaps, candles, and baked goods. They’ll definitely have you coming back again.
Brief bio:
Amanda holds bachelor's degrees in English Literature and Technical Communications from King University, and she owns Amanda March & Co., a personal/executive assistant company based in Knoxville. She loves a hot black Americano, living in a college town, and supporting her local community any chance she gets.
Abby Swabe, Graphic Designer & Event Coordinator for Dogwood Arts
Photography by Caroline Trotter for the Scout Guide Knoxville.
Dogwood Arts features two Emerging Makers at the Sunday Old City Markets as part of our Emerging Maker program. This initiative started in 2022 to support up-and-coming artists and makers through educational opportunities, equipment rentals, monetary support for local markets and online promotion. We understand the struggles of breaking into a new business or going into a new line of work, and want to help artists break down those barriers of entry. By providing a space at the Old City Market, artists are able to focus on their artwork, display setup and on making connections with their audience. We're excited to work with artists/makers that have never done a market in person before, and provide them with practical support and community exposure. Our goal is to help these artists feel confident participating in markets going forward.
Why should Knoxville visitors make a point to stop by the Emerging Makers tent when they visit the Old City Market?
By shopping at the Emerging Maker tent you're making a positive impact on the growing artist and maker community in Knoxville! The Emerging Makers that have participated in the past have spoken to how this program has helped them grow their business skills working as a professional artist. We're fortunate to live in an area with such a thriving creative community and supporting up-and-coming artists is just one of the ways to ensure that The Maker City continues to grow.
Brief bio:
Abby Swabe is a local Knoxville maker with a focus on illustration and paper goods. She earned a B.A. in Graphic Design from Maryville College in 2016 and since then has found her home in The Maker City community. She works to support other artists and makers in the region through her position at Dogwood Arts.
