Alcatraz East Crime Museum announces winners of 3rd Annual Graffiti contest
November 19, 2021

PIGEON FORGE, TN – Alcatraz East Crime Museum has announced the winners of its 3rd Annual Graffiti Contest. The three winners will have their artwork put on display in the museum, shedding light on the controversial nature of graffiti, and how some cities are working with artists to provide an acceptable creative outlet. The winners received cash prizes and have their artwork on display in the museum.

"What a wonderful event this graffiti contest has been for us," says Summer Blalock, manager for Alcatraz East. "We love being able to host this each year and enjoy seeing the popularity of it growing. It’s a fun way for graffiti artists to share what they do with the community.”

The contest was held on November 6, 2021, in the parking lot, with spectators allowed to watch from a viewing area. The winning artwork was chosen by a team of judges, including Richie Catlett from the Pigeon Forge Police Department, Sheriff Hodge from the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, Phillip Davis from the Sevier County Sheriff’s Dept of Public Relations, Jonathan Adams and Elizabeth Belz artists from Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, and Martha Eaichus, who is the owner of Talking Turkey Studio in Gatlinburg.

Ted Bundy by Charles Key	Capone & Charles Manson by Eric Johnson
Alvin Karpis by William Love

The prizes provided were $750 for first place, $350 for second place, and $200 for third place. Winners of the 3rd Annual Graffiti Contest are:

Charles Key from Nashville, Tenn. – Ted Bundy
Eric Johnson from Maryville, Tenn. – Capone & Charles Manson
William Love from Nashville, Tenn. – Alvin Karpis

“We will soon have the winning graffiti artwork on display for people to check out,” added Blalock. “We look forward to having people stop by to see the work these artists have created.”

Those who don’t want to miss next year’s artwork submission window should register for the museum’s newsletter, so they don’t miss the information once it’s released. The sign-up form can be found at the bottom of the page at www.alcatrazeast.com.

Museum hours are currently 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. The museum is cashless, so tickets can be purchased ahead of time online, or through non-cash options at the ticket booth. The last tickets are sold 60 minutes before closing. These interactive experiences are available to birthday parties, school groups, scouts, and team building, or other special events for an additional fee.

About Alcatraz East
Alcatraz East is the most arresting crime museum in the United States. Guests of all ages can encounter a unique journey into the history of American crime, crime solving, and our justice system. Through interactive exhibits and original artifacts, Alcatraz East is an entertaining and educational experience for all ages - so much fun it’s a crime! This family attraction is located at the entrance of The Island, located at 2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN. Guests are encouraged to check the website prior to visiting for reduced hours as a result of COVID-19. The last ticket is sold 60 minutes before closing. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.alcatrazeast.com.