Existing only as a conversation at this time, the Chilton County Arts Council is taking the necessary steps to become an incorporated organization by Jan. 8, 2012.

The group has held two meetings sharing ideas, discussing why it is important and exploring the future of an arts council in Chilton County.

At their recent meeting held Feb. 13, bylaws, the Board of Directors, membership and calendar events were discussed.

“We separated into four groups and sat down and expressed things to do, dreams, ideas and what we want our art council to contain,” said Elizabeth Byrd, the leader of the organization.

There is much talent here in Chilton County and this will be something for all ages, she said.

“I’ve lived here all of my life, and as a child there were no opportunities for art classes,” said Byrd. “We really need help – and the time is now. I don’t want to walk away from the new generation like we found our generation.”

The council is geared not only toward musicians, but all types of arts and crafts, quilting, painting and acting.

“Not all people are beauty queens or football players, and their talents may be passed by,” said Byrd. “I think there is a reason God has given us talent and no one will deny that.”

To become involved in the community, the council gathered the idea of having arts awareness during Peach week, where they will make giant art projects and place them around the town.

“We don’t want to interfere with anything in the county; we want to enhance it,” said Byrd. “Everything we do will serve everyone, not only benefit certain people or whoever comes to the meeting – but everyone.”

The articles of incorporation and the bylaws are being written. A public meeting will also be held, where the articles of incorporation and the bylaws will be voted on, said Byrd.

Byrd has spoken with Sandy Stevens, event coordinator of the multi-purpose Economic Development Center at Jefferson State Community College about holding events in their rooms, but the group is looking for a permanent place to meet.

“We do not have a home yet, and we are looking for someone that will help us. We need all the help we can get because we do not have a budget at this time,” Byrd said. “You don’t have to be an artist to join, just a person interested that wants to be informed or wants to help.”

The next arts council meeting will be held Sunday, March 13 at the Chilton-Clanton Public Library at 2 p.m.

For more information. contact Elizabeth Byrd at 205-294-2400 or via e-mail at chiltoncountyartscouncil@hotmail.com or search for the Chilton County Arts Council on Facebook.