What is it?
The Apple Art Walk is a permanent public art experience celebrating the heritage, beauty, and adventure of Unicoi County. For 49 years, downtown Erwin has been home to the Unicoi County Apple Festival — a tradition that inspired the apple sculptures at the heart of this project.
Each artist-designed apple features scenes that highlight Unicoi County’s abundant outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and unique things to see and do. Together, the apples create a walkable art experience that invites visitors to explore downtown Erwin while discovering what makes the community special.
Where is it?
The Apple Art Walk is located in historic downtown Erwin, with apple sculptures displayed along Main Avenue. The walk spans a five-block section, making it an easy, enjoyable stroll through the heart of downtown while exploring local shops, dining, and community landmarks.
Who is it for?
The Apple Art Walk is for everyone — visitors, residents, families, art lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a healthy, active lifestyle. Designed as a walkable experience in the heart of downtown, it encourages movement, exploration, and connection while celebrating art and community.
Whether you’re visiting Unicoi County for the first time or taking a leisurely stroll through your hometown, the Apple Art Walk offers a welcoming way to enjoy Erwin, support local businesses, and experience the community at your own pace.
How did it come about?
The Apple Art Walk was developed as a community-driven public art initiative led by the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce and made possible through grant funding from multiple sources. The project was designed to enhance downtown placemaking while creating a meaningful way to promote tourism and celebrate Unicoi County’s identity.
Each apple was intentionally created to tell a story — highlighting local attractions, outdoor recreation, history, and experiences that make Unicoi County a destination. By combining public art with storytelling, the Apple Art Walk encourages visitors to explore downtown Erwin and discover all that Unicoi County has to offer.
Does it cost any money?
No. The Apple Art Walk is completely free and open to the public year-round.
How long does it take to walk and see all the apples?
Most visitors can comfortably experience the entire Apple Art Walk in 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how long they choose to stop, explore, take photos, or visit nearby businesses.
How long will the apples be on display?
The apple sculptures are a permanent public art installation, intended to be enjoyed for years to come.
Why apples? What is their significance and relationship to Erwin… Apple Festival is obvious to locals but not to tourists?
For nearly five decades, apples have been a symbol of Erwin and Unicoi County. Downtown Erwin is home to the annual Unicoi County Apple Festival, a long-standing tradition that celebrates the area’s agricultural roots and strong sense of community. Each year, the festival welcomes more than 150,000 attendees, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.
The apple sculptures reflect that legacy while also serving as a creative canvas to showcase the stories, places, and experiences that define Unicoi County. Together, they represent both a proud tradition and a fresh way to invite visitors to explore, experience, and connect with the community.
How were the artists selected?
Artists were selected through a competitive application process that prioritized creativity, quality, and the ability to tell a story through art. Both local and regional artists were invited to submit designs, with final selections made to ensure a diverse collection that reflects Unicoi County’s heritage, culture, and tourism assets.
Thank You, Bell
Protecting the Apple Art Walk for Years to Come
The Apple Art Walk was created to be enjoyed for years—not just as a moment in time, but as a lasting part of downtown Erwin’s story. That’s why we are deeply grateful to Bell for stepping forward as a community partner and providing protective clear coating for the apple sculptures. This added layer of protection helps preserve the artwork against weather and wear, supporting the long-term care of this public art investment and keeping the apples vibrant, safe, and visitor-ready season after season.
This kind of support is more than a service—it’s stewardship. Public art thrives when a community comes together to care for it, and Bell’s willingness to lend time, expertise, and resources reflects a commitment to the places where their employees work and live. Bell publicly emphasizes strengthening communities through partnerships, outreach, and volunteerism—values that align perfectly with what the Apple Art Walk represents.
About Bell in Piney Flats, Tennessee
Bell’s presence in our region is anchored in Piney Flats, Tennessee, where the company employs approximately 500 individuals with highly technical skills ranging from engineering, airframe and powerplant mechanics, and production assembly to advanced interior finishing and upholstering. As part of its on-site Aeronautical Accessories facility, Bell produces aviation components supporting customers across the globe. Their Aircraft Services team customizes new aircraft to meet customer-specified requirements and go on to operate as air ambulances, utility aircraft, and VIP transports, among others. The company also operates a major service center that provides a wide range of maintenance services, from basic inspections to major refurbishments, as well as upgrades, modifications, and paint services.
A Partnership That Reflects Pride, Craft, and Care
The Apple Art Walk celebrates the creativity and character of Unicoi County—and Bell’s contribution helps ensure that creativity is protected and preserved. We are proud to recognize Bell for helping us care for this project with the same precision and professionalism they bring to their work every day. Their partnership helps keep the Apple Art Walk looking its best, while reinforcing a shared belief that what we build together is worth maintaining for future generations.