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By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Art might not be the first thing that comes to someone’s mind when thinking about Chilton County. However, there are plenty of people working to expand the art opportunities available in their communities.

Although some art classes are offered to students in Chilton County Schools, not every student will take an art class, whether visual or performing, each year.

The Chilton County Arts Council offers classes to give more children the opportunity to learn about the visual arts. Musical arts are also be adding to the repertoire, as guitar lessons will be offered later this year, and the group hopes to offer more art classes in the future as people express an interest in being teachers. The annual March Gourd Madness and annual Art Festival also offer opportunities for adults to learn about new art techniques and purchase work.

The Central Alabama Performing Arts Guild increased the number of opportunities for local young and old to showcase their performing arts talent by producing a puppet play and hosting a poetry slam in addition to its annual stage show, radio show and jazz festival.

The group has even helped publicize Door Number 3 Films auditions in Chilton County. (Auditions will be from 1-6 p.m. on Jan. 3 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Jan. 4. Those interested are encouraged to email doornumber3films@gmail.com for more details.)

Some might think that Clanton has no opportunities for them to pursue their passions for art — they would be mistaken. There are plenty of opportunities if one is willing to look and go for it.

I have long believed that everyone needs a creative outlet, a way to get away from the same old, same old of everyday living and explore what it is like to be a part of something unique.  Here in Chilton County, that could be displaying one’s paintings at the annual Art Festival in July, voicing a character for the latest radio production or trying out for a part on stage.

The opportunities are here if you want to take them.

For more information, visit chiltoncountyartscouncil.com or capaguild.org.