Arts Clayton kicks off Silver Anniversary

American author Paul Sweeney had a unique, but all to true, description of a married couple celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. "It is a celebration of love, trust, partnership and tenacity," he said. "However, that order may vary from year to year." That description could also describe the "marriage" between Arts Clayton, Jonesboro and Clayton County as the nationally known home of the arts in the county celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Last Friday, Arts Clayton held its usual monthly first Friday reception and unveiling of its newest exhibit. However, that gathering had special significance as it was the kickoff of Arts Clayton's year-long 25th anniversary celebration and the inauguration of its new and returning board members, who were sworn in by former District 76 state Rep. Mike Glanton. In addition, those gathered were informed of the many events and activities planned this year to mark Arts Clayton's 25 years of showcasing the arts, such as Arti' Gras, Arts Clayton's kaleidoscope elementary and teen summer arts camp and other events. "It has been a wonderful quarter century for us as we feel Arts Clayton has been a definite asset to the quality of life in our community," said Arts Clayton Executive Director Linda Sumerlin. "We have so many people to thank for their continued support through the years as they have changed the course not only of Arts Clayton but the celebration of arts in our county." According to Arts Clayton Gallery Manager, Karen Powers, not only is the Arts Clayton on South Main Street recognized regionally as a leader in advancing the arts but it has become a prime target area for artists throughout the state to showcase their work. "Arts Clayton has not only become a cultural asset in Clayton County, but a tourism asset as well," Powers said. "We have a large slate of members and contributing artists and that recognition as an arts leader in the area not only benefits the gallery but the community we serve," she added. Although some of the gallery's art pieces are on permanent display in the gallery, Powers said most are for sale, which provides art enthusiasts a great opportunity to secure award winning works. Powers said Arts Clayton can trace its origin to a locally-published article in 1986 which asked where the arts were in Clayton County. In response to that article, former Clayton County Commissioner Carl Rhodenizer and art patron Annie McCreanie formed a partnership with Clayton County business and community leaders to organize a community arts council. The council's headquarters was in a donated space in an upstairs area of a building on South Main Street and, in 2000, Arts Clayton received a state grant to start a visual art gallery component at its present location.