PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WOKI) — Dollywood is once again turning art into an opportunity to give back, launching its second annual online auction featuring original paintings inspired by the theme park’s popular Flower & Food Festival.
The limited-time auction opened to the public at noon on July 6 and runs through July 20 at noon, giving fans the chance to bid on one-of-a-kind works created by acclaimed artist Jaimie Houser. Proceeds will benefit Share It Forward, Dollywood’s employee assistance fund designed to help team members during times of financial hardship and personal need.
Throughout this year’s Flower & Food Festival, guests watched Houser paint scenes capturing the beauty, traditions and attractions that make Dollywood a unique destination in the Smoky Mountains. The collection highlights some of the park’s most beloved sights and experiences.
Among the featured pieces are paintings of a mother bear and cubs playing near Dollywood’s iconic entrance sign, Avie Lee Parton quilting the famous “Coat of Many Colors,” the historic Grist Mill, the Robert F. Thomas Chapel and several colorful Mosaiculture displays found throughout the park.
Additional artwork showcases scenes from The Dolly Parton Experience, including the SongTeller exhibit, Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home and the popular Umbrella Sky installation over Showstreet.
Auction organizers say each painting is an original work that offers visitors and collectors a chance to take home a unique piece of Dollywood while supporting a meaningful cause.
Funds raised through the auction will benefit Share It Forward, a program that provides confidential assistance to Dollywood hosts through grants, interest-free loans, childcare support and financial education resources. The program is designed to help employees navigate unexpected life challenges and emergencies.
Dollywood officials say every winning bid directly supports fellow team members and strengthens the company’s commitment to caring for its workforce.
Those interested in bidding can learn more and access the auction through Dollywood’s website at Dollywood.com. The auction is hosted online through Bidding Owl and will remain open until noon on Monday, July 20.
The event marks the second consecutive year Dollywood has partnered with Houser and hosted an art auction benefiting the Share It Forward program, combining the park’s focus on creativity, community and employee support.
