By EMILY SPARACINO / Staff Writer

COLUMBIANA – Hundreds of supporters of the arts and local artisans flocked to First Baptist Church in Columbiana for the annual “Celebration of the Arts” luncheon and fashion show on March 7.

The Columbiana Culture, Novella and Vignette clubs sponsor the event, which serves as the Shelby County Arts Council’s largest fundraiser each year.

“Although we’re a non-profit, we’ve got brick-and-mortar expenses,” SCAC Executive Director Bruce Andrews said.

Proceeds from ticket sales and an art sale go to the SCAC.

“All art donated is either from students, professional artists or Arts Council members,” SCAC office administrator Sandra Annonio said, adding that members of the SCAC Pottery Collective provided pieces for the sale and for decoration on the tables.

“It’s a big undertaking,” Annonio said of the event. “It’s one of the ways the three clubs give back to the community each year.”

The event also highlights the Arts Council’s outreach programs, such as “Artabilities” classes for special needs students in Shelby County schools.

Candice Chenault, the parent of a local student, spoke about her son’s positive experiences in Artabilities classes and asked for the SCAC to continue the offering the program.

“What you do through this program changes lives,” Chenault said. “Thank you so much for your efforts. I implore you to keep it going from the bottom of my heart.”

SCAC founder Terri Sullivan said the group has seen a “huge” increase in the number of its programs and in the quality of the programs.

Expansion of its facilities is an ongoing goal, Sullivan said.

“Our dream of a performing arts and education center is still alive,” Sullivan said. “We still want to see that happen. It would be a huge enhancement to our county. Your participation is still vital to our success.”

The event was catered by Nancy Drakos of the Fish Market Restaurant and featured fashions from Cache, Cato, Ditsy Daisy, Prissy’s, Sew Precious, Sassy Sisters and Bella’s Bridal and Formal.