At first glance, Nashville may not exactly appear to be a hotbed of experimental art. But over the past eight years, Kindling Arts Festival has offered a safe space for some of the city’s most daring makers. This year’s festival featured 19 original projects across eight venues, representing everything from dance and aerial acts to edgy performance art and experimental theater. At a time when the creative community is facing tough financial cuts and political backlash, Kindling invites artists and audiences alike to take big chances, and to celebrate the endless possibilities of art.
Past Best of Nashville wins: In our Writers’ Choice, Kindling Arts Festival has also been named Best Celebration of Local Art and Artists (2024), Best Summer Ticket (2023) and Best Summer Arts Festival (2021).
