The Chestnut Group, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit based in Nashville, celebrates the tradition of outdoor painting by bringing together a diverse community of plein air artists. As a group we are committed to preserving Middle Tennessee’s natural habitats, landscapes, and historic properties. This inclusive, non-juried group welcomes artists of all skill levels and mediums, fostering collaboration among plein air painters, volunteers, and environmental advocates.

THE CHESTNUT GROUP

Our Focus
Our Board
Our Partners

Conservation · Education · Community

Conservation

The 150 plus members of The Chestnut Group are passionate about protecting the natural and historic landscapes of Middle Tennessee. Working with valued partners to host collaborative art events, a generous portion of the proceeds from the sale of original artwork is donated to those groups with the same vision of preserving fragile local environments, threatened habitats and protected natural areas.

The Chestnuts and their partners represent a unique alliance with the artistic world. To date, The Chestnut Group has raised close to a half-million dollars for preservation partners through the sale of members’ work.

Education

The Chestnut Group provides learning and teaching resources for every artistic level: instructional sessions for beginning painters, member-mentors eager to share their knowledge and experience, and workshops led by accomplished plein air artists for those seeking development. As a trusted voice in the plein air community, The Chestnut Group serves as a conduit of artistic and conservation information for members and non-members alike, with the passion to grow in ability while understanding the advantages of painting outdoors.

Community

With core values of volunteerism, conservation of land, preservation of historic places, and awareness, The Chestnut Group members are a collection of like-minded artists, volunteers and conservationists dedicated to a grassroots conservancy. The group’s efforts benefit partner organizations who share similar ideals, and funds raised at exhibition events are donated to protect natural open spaces, waterways, historic landmarks and structures from commercial development. The Chestnut Group drives local purpose with the fortitude of a unified, dedicated community.

Learn more about the History of The Chestnut Group, including the origin of its name.

Our partners are at the heart of what we do.

Their support, collaboration, and shared commitment to conservation make it possible for us to preserve the beauty and history of Middle Tennessee. We are deeply grateful for their dedication and proud to work alongside such like-minded organizations.

2026 Board Members

  • Lisa Fallon

    CO-PRESIDENT

  • Ellen Parker Bibb

    CO-PRESIDENT, MARKETING CHAIR

  • Judson Newbern

    PAST PRESIDENT, COMMUNITY OUTREACH

  • Lee Ann Burney

    TREASURER

  • Sara Clinton

    PAST TREASURER

  • Angela Powers

    MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

  • Ed Routon

    EXHIBIT STAGING & STORAGE SPACE MANAGER

  • Cathy Brooks Fincher

    EDUCATION CO-CHAIR

  • Jeanne Pickard

    TBD

  • Ashleigh Suarez

    SECRETARY

  • Jess Peoples

    ONLINE GALLERY CHAIR

  • Stacey Briggs

    SPONSORSHIP CHAIR

  • Terry Warren

    SHOW SET UP ASSISTANT MANAGER

  • Suzanne LeBeau

    ART SHOW SUBMISSIONS & TITLE BLOCK COORDINATOR

  • Suzannah Green

    MEMBER-AT-LARGE

  • Lolly Brown

    OPERATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER