IN THIS ISSUE · SPRING 2026 — Read the cover story
We’re delighted to feature Kim Winkle, Director of the School of Art, Craft, and Design at Tennessee Tech University, in the arts edition of Cookeville Lifestyle Magazine.
Beyond her work on TTU’s main campus, Kim’s responsibilities extend to the renowned Appalachian Center for Craft (ACC) in Smithville, TN.
Since 1979, the expansive, creative oasis has provided formal education and recreational expression for seasoned artists and novices alike.
When asked what she loves most about her work with the ACC, Winkle stated, “My favorite aspect of my position at Tennessee Tech is creating opportunities for our students and faculty by supporting their interests, passions, and pursuits. The Appalachian Center for Craft is dedicated to supporting individuals interested in art and craft making, regardless of their experience or skill level and we offer programs that cater to a wide range of interests!” Continuing, she said, “Our academic program is quite unique for a state-funded public institution, offering both Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Science degree programs. TTU’s craft program stands out because it features spacious, well-equipped studios for glass, metals, ceramics, fibers, and woodworking, all within an undergraduate setting. In addition to our academic offerings, the ACC actively engages in community outreach through various initiatives. For instance, we have provided over 1,000 mini craft kits to children in the region through our Craft Kits for Kids program. We also host a Friday outreach program for local high school students and offer a week-long residency program during the summer for high school students and educators. For those who may not want to try their hand at art-making, we have three exhibition galleries and a retail gallery that feature work from craft artists from across our country. Additionally, we provide free hands-on craft activities during our two annual open house events (Celebration of Craft, the first Saturday in April, and Holiday Festival, the Saturday before Thanksgiving) and conduct community workshops for adult learners.”
As a child who benefited from trips to the ACC, I am acquainted with the incredible artists who have called it their educational home and the mind blowing work that takes place there. To those unaware that we have been gifted a truly world-class facility right here in the Upper Cumberland, Kim said, “Many people in our area may not realize that some of the nation’s best-known craft artists have been associated with the Craft Center over the years. Several past students, faculty members, and resident artists have received recognition from the American Craft Council for their innovative work and contributions to the craft and craft education fields. Additionally, our region is home to many talented craft artists, many of whom came to study or work as resident artists and chose to remain here, enriching the cultural and economic ecosystem of our community.”
Beyond leading the university creatively and overseeing the ACC, Kim also has the challenging duty of supporting students, former students, and faculty in moments of tragedy. Such was the case this summer when the Cookeville art community lost a beloved member, Jesse Filoteo. When asked about Jesse and how he will be remembered, Winkle said, “The Jesse Filoteo Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the legacy of Jesse Filoteo, an alumnus of our design program who tragically passed away in a hiking accident on July 4, 2024. Jesse was a remarkable young man—an exceptionally talented artist and a kind, principled individual who was honest, caring, respectful, and generous. In tribute to Jesse, his family wanted to create a scholarship that reflects his values and supports a program that was meaningful to him.” She continued, “We are collaborating with Jesse’s family to endow the scholarship, ensuring that it can be awarded in perpetuity. Those interested in contributing can make a tax-deductible donation through a button at the bottom of our scholarship page http://www.tntech.edu/fine-arts/art/scholarships. Thanks to a generous donation from Jesse’s family, we will be awarding the inaugural Jesse Filoteo Memorial Scholarship this spring. Additionally, Jesse’s artwork is available for purchase in The Gallery at the Appalachian Center for Craft. All proceeds from these sales will go towards enhancing the scholarship’s endowment.”
From the above quote alone, it’s obvious that Kim didn’t stumble into her role at Tennessee Tech. Beyond leading well, Kim is also a gifted artist in her own right (with her primary medium being wood), and she knew early on that creative expression would be key to her journey.
Winkle stated, “I have always been passionate about art making. Even as a child, I explored creating art and objects using whatever supplies we had at home. My mom kept my sister and me engaged in after-school activities that often included art, such as Campfire Girls and vacation Bible school. I continued to take as many art courses as I could throughout middle school and high school. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts in ceramics from the University of Oklahoma and my Master of Fine Arts in Furniture Design from San Diego State University before moving to Tennessee.” She added, “I have always been incredibly fortunate to have the support of my parents. They encouraged my passion for art without ever pressuring me to conform to more traditional career paths. Their belief in my dreams has been instrumental in shaping my professional journey, allowing me to create and share the enriching and impactful art experiences that I cherish and strive to provide for others.
Kim’s excitement for her work and care for those who make beautiful art through the various programs at TTU is palpable. An entire magazine edition could be dedicated to her career, her talent, and her influence.
To wrap up this article, I wanted to share Kim’s words about the exciting things coming for the Appalachian Center for Craft.
“The Craft Center is on the brink of exciting facility upgrades in the coming year. Many of the original systems are ready for replacement, and with the invaluable support of the State of Tennessee and Tennessee Tech, we are poised for enhancements that will pave the way for many more years of transformative craft education. With deep gratitude for the support from Tennessee Tech and our regional community, we eagerly anticipate welcoming visitors to our campus. Folks can view the exhibitions in our galleries, find the perfect handmade gift in our retail gallery, hike our trails, and enjoy a picnic lunch at the overlook gazebo overlooking Center Hill Lake and the surrounding hills; it makes for a great day! Come, y’all!”
Thank you for all leading well and making the UC a more artistic place to call home, Kim.
Written by Andrew Buckner, photos by Abby Weeden
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