Kentucky is known for being the bourbon capital of the world, as well as home to high-energy bluegrass music and the scrumptious wings of KFC. But there’s one more thing it’s famous for, and it thrives on visual storytelling. Paducah — one of only nine UNESCO Creative Cities in the country — leads the way in representing Kentucky’s artistic soul, alongside the youthful, artsy paradise of Berea. This city has deservedly earned a reputation for nurturing talent and fostering imagination, and it all makes sense once you see how Paducah celebrates ingenuity.
Paducah is a place that takes art seriously — it has long recognized its role in the economy and how it provides unique opportunities for people to thrive. For starters, the city established the Artist Relocation Program, which has made it easier than ever for artists to move here. Whether looking to create, collaborate, or live, Paducah has designed spaces with dreamers in mind. And to make the transition even more effortless, the city offers properties for a small amount, along with substantial reimbursements for certain services. On top of all that, Paducah supports its art district with promotions and matching funds so that your work gets the attention it deserves.
This is a town that truly believes in investing in creativity, and its incentives prove it. Like Demetri Martin once said, the Earth sans art is just “eh”. So wouldn’t you want to see how Paducah does it?
A living gallery of art and culture
Every trip to Paducah includes a tour of the National Quilt Museum, which is anything but your grandma’s quilting circle. Featuring more than 650 contemporary quilts that redefine style and technique, the museum has jaw-dropping works on display. You’ll find masterpieces by Deidre Adams, Juanita Gibson Yeager, Debra Wagner, and countless other visionaries. What sets this museum apart is that more than 95% of its collection is created by women. Beyond its permanent collection, it also has rotating exhibitions throughout the year with diverse and cutting-edge works…