The Thomas Kinkade Gallery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee Review

I've been a fan of Thomas Kinkade for many years. I especially love his winter and Christmas scenes, but honestly, all of his work is gorgeous. While visiting Gatlinburg this year, my boyfriend and I decided to stop at the Thomas Kinkade Galley. I honestly wasn't expected to afford a large print, but I thought they might have some smaller items that didn't cost quite so much. I have to admit, after visiting the Thomas Kinkade Gallery, I feel slightly ripped off.

The first thing you should know is that all the Thomas Kinkade Gallery carries that isn't an expensive piece of artwork are puzzles. I was a bit letdown. After all, Thomas Kinkade work has been featured on everything from mugs to Christmas decorations to calendars. I thought this was a bit odd. How many tourists (and Gatlinburg is certainly a tourist town) are going to be casually strolling the shops and decide they want a large piece of artwork for their home?

Another thing you should know is that you can purchase Thomas Kinkade artwork less expensively at other shops. A small piece of artwork at the gallery, measuring around 4x6 was almost $100. Other pieces in the gallery weren't even priced. This always makes me think, "If they can't price it, I can't afford it." Though there were signs throughout the gallery discussing the finance plans they had available. I also overheard one salesman talking about a piece that was over $1,000.

Lastly, you should know that not every piece of the Thomas Kinkade Gallery is Kinkade work. In fact, the gallery features three other artists. This to me was the biggest ripoff of all. Basically, they're using the Kinkade name, but most of the art in the gallery is by other artists.

I will admit that not everything about the Thomas Kinkade Gallery was a letdown. Seeing Thomas Kinkade's work up close and under gallery lighting was breathtaking. The colors were rich and vibrant and the lighting in the painting jumped off the pieces in brilliant ways. He truly is the artist of light.

If you love Thomas Kinkade's work, and happen to visiting Gatlinburg, I highly recommend going to view the gallery. Just remember what I've stated above. Unless you're loaded and want to purchase a large piece of art while on vacation, don't go to the gallery with shopping in mind. I would have to give the Thomas Kinkade Gallery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee 3 out of 5 stars.