One year ago, a handful of arts enthusiasts blended their time and talents to create the first Chilton County Arts Council.

Since then, this steadily growing group has brought more attention to the area’s artists, many of whom were searching for a creative outlet or a chance to gain professional exposure.

The council’s Artists’ Showcase and Fall Festival Oct. 29 and 30 showed just how much Chilton County has to offer and drew people from all over the Southeast.

“Our motto is ‘Think Outside the Box,’” President Elizabeth Byrd said. “And by thinking outside the box, 2011 exceeded all expectations.”

The council meets every second Sunday of each month. Meetings are free to attend and open to everyone.

The council’s next meeting will be Jan. 8, 2012, at Byrd’s house at 536 Thrash Road in Clanton from 2-4 p.m.

“This is a celebration of our one-year anniversary,” Byrd said. “We made it! We encourage anyone who will help us as volunteers with the 2012 calendar events to attend this meeting and sign up.”

Nominations for officers for the new year will be announced, and any additional nominations will be taken from the floor.

“We are planning a ‘Have a Heart for the Arts’ silent auction as our first event in February and a St. Patrick’s Day wine and cheese event at the Hidden Meadow Vineyard in Jemison for members and their guests,” Byrd said. “We will donate proceeds from these events to make a donation to the Relay For Life of Chilton County in April.”

For more information, email Chiltoncountyartscouncil@hotmail.com.