By Joni Woolf

AMERICUS —  Calvary Episcopal Church is preparing an even bigger and better art event for its third season. The idea for an art show, that showcased members’ work as well as that from others in the community, blossomed year before last — when the Parish Life Committee under the chairmanship of Carey Wooten sought ways to bring outsiders into the church located at 408 S. Lee St.
This year the event is called Calvary Cornucopia Creation, A Feast for The Eyes, thanks to the creativity of local artist Mary Beth Rogers. She and her committee are in charge of selecting and placing all the art in the parish hall at Calvary for the show that begins with a grand opening at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19. In addition to the opportunity to view and purchase great art, there will be a reception that evening featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres, wine, and live music by an Americus band, The Pluck Tones. The artists’ work will be displayed and will be for sale at several events throughout the weekend.
This year’s co-chair, Elise Miller, has planned several activities for children and adults throughout the weekend.  On Friday, Oct. 20, local caterer Richelle Bivens will demonstrate/prepare a luncheon, “cooking show” style. Each guest can observe, eat a delicious lunch and take home recipes for a small fee. Also Friday morning, a DIY Oil on Canvass painting experience, led by Reba Hunter Gallery, will be offered for a small fee.  From 3-6 p.m. Friday, the Brannon Avenue sidewalk will serve as the venue for “Chalk Walk Americus” as chalkers compete for best team and individual awards in two categories — 8-12 graders and post high-school contenders. In addition, the art show in the parish hall will be open several hours throughout the day on Friday. On Friday evening, a second band joins the festivities, performing in The Cloister, just off the parish hall. The band includes two of Calvary’s own youth, Walter Cornwell and Stephen Ledbetter, both of whom are accomplished musicians now living in Milledgeville and Macon, respectively.
Saturday features two “do it yourself” art projects as well as a wine and cheese reception in Calvary’s lovely “secret” garden, tucked away on the south side of the historic church. Some events, such as the luncheon, have fees, but the art show is open and free to all. Calvary’s members want to spread the word that art is for everyone by welcoming shoppers and “lookers.”
On Sunday, after the worship service, members and visitors may browse one last time for possible purchase of fine art, from noon to 2 p.m. Calvary’s members welcome the community — and surrounding areas — to the parish for this art experience right here in hometown Americus. For further information, visit the church’s website at http://calvaryepiscopalamericus.org/ or their Facebook page, call Calvary at 229-924-3908, or email (calvaryamericus@gmail.com).