The artwork by John Waddill has been a trademark for the Saluda Arts Festival since 2006 when Waddill permitted the use of one of his watercolors to the Saluda Business Association.

“The watercolor depicts a colorful, fun-filled festival on Historic Main Street in Saluda and is a great representation and branding of the Saluda Arts Festival,” said Cathy Jackson, spokesperson for the Saluda Art Festival organizers. “We were trying to design a logo and brand for the Saluda Arts Festival, when Johnny brought this painting in to hang in the former Saluda Fine Arts gallery. At first glance, we knew that this painting was a perfect image of festival fun in Saluda. Johnny graciously gave us permission to use it and was astounded when he saw us selling t-shirts and posters with the image. He was always supportive of the Saluda Arts Festival.”

John Miller Waddill died on March 1, 2013. To honor Johnny Waddill’s love for art, the Saluda Business Association is dedicating the 10th annual Saluda Arts Festival to his memory. There will be a special exhibit on display during the festival at the Saluda Center, 64 Greenville St., Saluda, N.C. 28773.