MARTIN, Tenn. – Rachel Melton, local artist and senior graphic design major at the University of Tennessee at Martin, will display her artwork series “Est. 1873: An Illustrated History of Martin, Tenn.” from 4-5:30 p.m., March 17, at Martin Coffeehouse on Lindell Street. This is a one-day only exhibit, and there is no cost to attend.

This series is an illustrated look at Martin’s history through the depiction of local businesses, events and landmarks. Melton created the series as part of a two-year research project through UT Martin’s University Scholars Program. The artwork is inspired by original documentary photography of the local area as well as information from local archives.

Melton hopes the project will help preserve the history of the Martin area through visual art. The project is intended to connect community members from across the county and create an appreciation for graphic design.

The entire project will soon be available to the public in book form and feature not only Melton’s original artwork but a collection of historic and current photographs of the Martin area as well.

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PHOTO ID: One of Melton’s local graphics features Clement Hall, located on the campus of the University of Tennessee at Martin.