Back in the 1970's there were many artists that had moved into the Clinch Valley community from various places. Some of the artists did craft shows, some sold out of their homes. Others just bartered. As time went on, they realized they should do something more.

In September of 2005 they rented a building in Rogersville Tennessee, during the holiday gift giving season. The Local Artist Gallery was so well received that in January  2006, a lease was signed with Mrs. Betty Richardson owner of the building.  It sent the gallery on it's way.  The membership grew to all members in the area, hence the name Local Artist Gallery.