Where Art and Community Meet: Inside The Wartrace Emporium

Hi, I’m Julie Barrett, the co-owner and creative force behind The Wartrace Emporium. While I share ownership with two wonderful partners, the creative direction and vision of the space are where my heart lives. I created this space because I love art—and even more, I love genuine connections with local creatives and the community that surrounds us.

Artists from all over Middle Tennessee lead workshops here, offering a wide range of experiences from painting and sculpture to mixed media. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch people of all ages roll up their sleeves, try something new, and leave with a handmade piece they’re proud of. These workshops are hands-on, joyful, and deeply rooted in celebrating the creative spirit of our region.

Every month, we make space for something truly special—our Women’s Circle, led by the evergrounding Savannah Hess, a local yoga instructor. It’s a soft, welcoming evening where women come together to reflect, share, and support one another. Over time, it has grown into a quiet yet powerful source of connection for many who walk through our doors.

We also curate rotating art exhibits throughout the year, often featuring 30 to 40 works by local artists at a time. These shows are a visual love letter to the town and the talents living within and around it. Beyond the gallery, our shelves are stocked with handmade goods—ceramics, textiles, prints, candles, and more—all crafted by local artisans. Each piece tells a story, and I’m honored to help bring those stories to you.

To me, The Wartrace Emporium isn’t just a place to shop. It’s a creative home, a gathering space, and a gallery all rolled into one. Here in Wartrace—a town with more history than stoplights—we’ve built something rooted in beauty, community, and care.

Whether you visit to make something, find connection, browse an exhibit, or take home a local treasure, you become part of what makes this place so meaningful.

I hope you’ll stop by and experience it for yourself.

– Julie Barrett

Co-owner & Creative Director, The Wartrace Emporium