Discovering Magic Through the Arts

Discovering Magic Through the Arts

by Sara Penny, CCAC Vice President for Iron County Today

“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper,” wrote the Irish poet W. B. Yeats. We are surrounded by natural beauty, but it takes some extra focus to take the time to appreciate a glorious sunset or a stunning vista. Last fall I had a visitor from New Jersey. As we drove around the corner to the Kolob overlook the gigantic sandstone monoliths came into view and she was shocked. "What in the world?" was her reaction. She had never seen anything like it. I realized that I have come to expect the spectacular without appreciating the magic of the sight. 

Fortunately we have artists who help us remember to pay attention to the magic around us through their work. Your Arts Council recently hosted our Winter Arts Social and it was wonderful to hear the progress of individual artists. Nano Taggart received the Service to the Arts Award for his contributions to CCAC and the literary arts. He and his wife Natalie Young produce the Sugarhouse Review and have hosted numerous author readings in Cedar City. 

Tiffany Marchant helps her students develop their skills. It was inspiring to hear how much it meant to the students of the Alternative High School to have an exhibit of their art at the city offices. The community support and having all of the pieces purchased was definitely magical for the students. 

Michael Clark is working to have the Plein Air Competition again in May. He won't qualify for a mini-grant this year so sponsors would be most welcome. There was a good level of participation last spring so the project is off and running.

We were also able to enjoy songs by Andrew Briggs and Matthew Clegg accompanied by Tracey Bradshaw. The song from Camelot brought good memories for me because my husband and I were involved in a community theater production of this musical in Beaumont, Texas before moving to Utah. We are fortunate to have such talented musicians teaching at SUU and sharing their performances with the community. 

There are several upcoming concerts and recitals on the SUU Music Department website. One of the magical elements of the Socials is watching artists from different disciplines interact and make connections. It is refreshing to have a lovely evening of camaraderie. It certainly gives me hope for Cedar City to see people working together in our arts community.

 It was abundantly clear that we have a lot of great events coming our way this winter and spring. The tricky bit is letting you know about everything, so watch our social media and monthly newsletter for updates. 

Remember that the next mini-grant applications are due Feb. 28. The application is on our website under Support. In order to find the magic it is helpful to have a solid plan for the project. Helping all ages participate in the arts is part of our mission. On our Cedar City City Arts Council website we have Art

Resources that include community groups and contact information. Under the Education tab is a listing of opportunities for children. Updates are welcome so the website can be an accurate resource. Many of the programs have scholarships, so as many children as possible can participate. Wishing you success in developing your art form. Many thanks to those who attend the local arts events. You make it worth the effort.

Nano Taggart and Natalie Young