Painting The Town Red
Upon first glance, it’s possible to miss the art scene in the town of Chapin. There are no hipsters in the streets peddling their wares or giant, brightly colored murals on the sides of buildings. But indeed, the art scene is here. Whether you are a fine artist, a “blossoming” artist, or just an admirer of the arts, if you don’t know about the Crooked Creek Art League, you’re missing out.
By Nancy Mandish
The CCAL was established in 1995 with a mission statement of “encouraging and stimulating the practice and appreciation of creative arts.” Since then it has grown to approximately 100 artists working in all mediums. Painters, photographers, sculptors and mixed media artists join together once a month to educate and encourage each other’s work. Their aim is simple: improve self-expression through art and support the growth of visual arts in and around Chapin.
The League meets September through May of each year, on the third Monday evening of every month in the Crooked Creek Recreation Center. They exchange creative ideas, enjoy and learn from guest presenters who work in a variety of mediums, and they help each other find opportunities to display and sell their work.
It’s likely you’ve already enjoyed the work of the CCAL, as it is all over Chapin and beyond. They are currently displayed in the Chapin Library, Chapin Chamber of Commerce, Palmetto Fine Arts, BB&T (Chapin Branch) and the Crooked Creek Recreation Center foyer as well as in Prosperity Town Hall.
…And Another Thing by Anne Hightower-Patterson
There are numerous benefits to joining the Crooked Creek Art League. As a producer of one of the largest juried shows in the Midlands each year, The CCAL has had over 200 pieces of art on display and for sale. The show, where over $2K in prize money is awarded, includes 3 categories: 2D, 3D and photography. Additionally, members of the League are presented with up to six, 2-day workshops lead by outside, prominent artists from whom all levels of artists can learn.
By Donnie Hughes
As an added feather in its cap, the League recently received some funding and a special grant for a Chapin Community Art Project. A decision on the project is still in the planning stages, but a completion target date of Labor Day 2019 has been set.
To enjoy Chapin’s art scene and learn more about Crooked Creek Art League or to join, go to crookedcreekart.org.
