Art of Adair was on display from one corner of the square to the other at the Celebration of the Arts September 4. Heart of Adair and The Columbian Theatre, under the direction of Clint Withers, held the first annual event promoting the arts in downtown Columbia.

Denise Stewart had a display showcasing her quilt-making expertise. She is an instructor in the art of quiltmaking.

Sara Coop had a booth for her handpainted china which she's been enjoying since 1996. She does all her own drawing by hand, no patterns. Sara, who reitred from Col. William Casey Elementary after 26 years of teaching, says that painting china is like therapy to her, such a wonderful experience. She shared some of her favorite pieces at the event.

Also included in the presentations were:

Artists' displays, artists lectures, art demonstrations, sidewalk chalk art, storytrellers, creative activities and an art film.

Participating artists in the event included:

Adair County High School art club, face painting; Danielle Affolter, performing arts dance; Pat Bell, water color; Sara Coop, china painting; Judith Dumphy, performing arts, creative writing; George Kolbenschlag, photography; Leeza Long, glass etching; Ace Patterson, painting, drawing, graphic design; Donnie Perry, ceramics; Sara Roush, watercolor, ceramics; Henrietta Scott, painting, ceramics, April Shepherd, photo journalism, Standing Room Only, musical theatre, Denise Stewart, quiltmaker; Basil Townsend, painting.

Withers, manager of the Columbian Theatre until just recently, says, "We hope this is the first of many such festivals because Adair County has a never-ending flow of creative work to share." He just started his first year at the Savannah College of Art in Georgia.

Clint plans to work at each break from college to do his part to make sure downtown continues to thrive.