Mother Earth makes a fine muse. So, with such pristine natural beauty, it’s no wonder why Walton County is home to a thriving creative community. Artists from all over the world are drawn here to be inspired by the surroundings.
A major catalyst behind the success of the local arts scene is the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA), whose goal is to continually serve as a “creative core” for the county. Their team understands that, beyond simply providing aesthetic enjoyment, the arts help create a strong cultural identity and sense of pride for the community as a whole. Therefore, the CAA’s mission is to support local arts through a multi-faceted approach that includes sponsorship, advocacy, funding and education.
Perhaps nothing drums up enthusiasm more than the festive events that the CAA hosts throughout the year. A few examples? The Flutterby Festival celebrates the migration of Monarch butterflies with live music, art activities and exhibits, as well as theater and dance performances. ArtsQuest displays the handiwork of more than 150 local artists throughout Sandestin’s Grand Boulevard Town Center. The Valentine Tour of Homes & Gardens showcases some of the county’s art-filled houses, along with the beautiful gardens that complement them. And of course there’s the 30A Songwriters Festival, which fills venues throughout the county with original live music from a wide range of talented performers.
In addition to these larger events, the CAA keeps things growing at a grassroots level through opportunities such as workshops, lectures and panels. When COVID forced residents to shelter in place, the CAA launched Art On Demand to keep everyone connected and inspired virtually with studio tours and workshops. These creative sessions (which continue today) have included everything from cocktail mixology to floral design to fitness and wellness.
Recently opened by the CAA in Santa Rosa Beach, the Pottery Studio at the Bayou Arts Center offers guests the chance to channel their creativity and release some stress. The idea was started with a donation of equipment by long-time members Tom and Karen McGee, and it finally became a reality thanks to a generous donation by Shawn and Richard Tomasello.
The CAA is an organization for the people, by the people. Its inclusive nature truly speaks to the subjectivity of art appreciation, helping to stimulate an ongoing conversation about and connection to the arts. There are many ways to get involved, whether you’re contributing time or money. For example, the Giving Tuesday initiative raises money for their Art for All program supporting artists, organizations, teachers and students.
Anyone interested in volunteering can visit the website and apply either for specific events or ongoing opportunities.
www.CulturalArtsAlliance.com
