Sienna Art Gallery & Gifts has officially opened at 129 S. Gay Street in Knoxville’s downtown Arts District. Founded by watercolorist Gayla Seale, fiber artist Judi Gaston, and painter Blanche Nicoll, the space serves as both a working studio and a retail gallery. The venue debuted during a recent First Friday event, featuring original works, architectural cityscapes, handwoven garments, and guest artist rotations, including pieces by Cynthia Markert.
The opening marks a significant moment for the local community following the recent closures of prominent downtown storefronts like RALA and Paris Woodhull Illustrations. The move was prompted by a policy change at the nearby Emporium Center that limited long-term studio leases, forcing veteran artists to seek independent spaces. By securing a storefront in the Arts District, the trio maintains the area's creative footprint and provides a new hub for local art production and private instruction.