The Chilton County Arts Council hosted a Spring Fling on April 16 to highlight the organization’s new leadership and efforts.

Attendees at the event, which was held at the Rose Gallery in downtown Clanton, were greeted by entries in a recent children’s art show—and Arts Council members.

Drinks and refreshments were offered, and then Arts Council President Sue Anne Hoyt and Vice-President Jackie Kendall addressed the crowd.

Kendall said she’s focused on increasing membership in the Council.

“Everybody has something they can contribute,” Kendall said.

Carole Jean Whittington-Bucklew, marketing and solicitation chairman for CCAC, talked about upcoming events, some of which are planned for the first time this year.

The deadline to register for the 2015 Juried Art Show is April 24. The entry fee is $10 for Council members and $20 for non-members.

Entries will be on display at the Rose Gallery during the month of May. A reception for participating artists will be held from 2-4 p.m. May 9 at the gallery, located at 703 Second Ave. N. in Clanton, and winners will be announced at the reception.

The show is open to all artists over the age of 18.

Prizes will be awarded in two categories: fine arts (painting, drawing, photography and printmaking) and fine hand-crafted arts (ceramics, sculpture, glass, fiber and wood art, clay art and jewelry).

In each category, first prize will be $100, second prize will be $50 and third prize will be $25.

For more information, email chiltoncountyartscouncil@hotmail.com or call (205) 217-3027.

Other upcoming events include Family Art Night, from 6-8 p.m. April 23; Girls Night Out Art Party from 6-8 p.m. May 14; deadline for early registration and discount for the Peach Art Camp Summer Program on May 22; and the Chilton County Arts Festival on Nov. 7-8 at the Clanton Conference and Performing Arts Center, among other events (contact CCAC for a full list).

“We’re headed in the right direction,” Whittington-Bucklew said.