OUR IMPACT

Since 2001, The Chestnut Group has been dedicated to preserving and celebrating the beauty of Middle Tennessee’s landscapes and historic places through the power of art. What began as a small group of plein air painters has grown into a vibrant nonprofit community of artists, advocates, and preservation partners.

Community Impact
Education
Conservation Partners

By the Numbers

  • $500,000+ raised to support land, water, and historic preservation efforts across Tennessee

  • 20+ years of painting and partnering with mission-driven nonprofits

  • Thousands of original works of art created to tell the story of Tennessee’s natural beauty and cultural heritage

How We Make an Impact

At The Chestnut Group, our artists turn creativity into community impact.

  • Through collaborative art shows, live demos, and special events, we support nonprofits that share our mission.

  • Every brushstroke has purpose—helping protect:

    • beloved parks

    • cherished open spaces

    • historic landmarks

    • the unique character and beauty of Middle Tennessee

Together, we use art to preserve the places that make our region special.

Our Mission in Action

We partner with organizations like Friends of Warner Parks, Friends of Shelby Park & Bottoms, Friends of Radnor Lake, and The Preservation Society of Nashville to:

  • Raise awareness and funds for protecting Tennessee’s natural and historic treasures

  • Inspire the community to see the land through the eyes of artists, creating a lasting connection to place

Together, we paint to preserve.

Our impact since 2001 is just the beginning — with your support, the future is even brighter.

  • "The Chestnut painters showcase the beauty, wildlife, and community that is Shelby Park and Bottoms. These works celebrate not only the park, but what happens when nonprofits work together to create something special."

    —Friends of Shelby Park, Executive Director, Rebecca Ratz

  • “Support from The Chestnut Group helped bring Clare’s Meadow to life—restoring native habitat while honoring the connection between art, nature, and community.”

    - Jessica Steele, Director of Operations, Friends of Warner Parks

2025 Workshop Faculty

We are grateful to the dedicated teachers who share their time and expertise, strengthening education while inspiring growth and creativity throughout The Chestnut Group and the community.

Kim Barrick

Anne Blair Brown

Brenda Coldwell

Dale Finley

Trey Finney

Tiffany Foss

Teresa Hargis

Suzanne LeBeau

Judson Newbern

Pam Padgett

Ellen Parker Bibb

Angela Powers

Gayle Levee

Jessica Lewis

Kymberlee Stanley

Dawn Whitelaw

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.