Irondale Arts Council
Gourd Artist and President of the Irondale Arts Council, Lynn Marino
Lynn, you are the president of Irondale Arts Council, tell me what the arts council is?
Irondale Arts Council (IAC) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Our mission is to promote the availability of the arts, art education, and art awareness to the citizens of Irondale and neighboring communities.
Who can be a member and what does it cost?
Artists, writers, musicians, painters, fiber artists, wood turners, precious metal and jewelry artists, photographers, they can all be a member of the Irondale Arts Council. As of August last year we had 24 members. Anyone can be a member of the IAC regardless of where they live or their art skills. Annual dues are $25 and you can also be a supportive member.
Jewelry Artist Leigh Lynn
What kind of activities does the IAC do?
We hold 1-2 fine art juried shows per year. Events coming up is a student art competition, Poetry Cafe - learn how to write a poem and express art through words, and Art Talk where you can meet an artist and learn how they make their creations. Follow the event calendar on our Facebook page! We also do free or nominal fee art classes, and art activity at the senior activity center. We have furnished some art supplies to four schools in Irondale and do art activies with the schools. Under hurricane Irma victims filled the motels and hotels in Irondale and we provided art acitivity baskets for the kids. Around the city you will also find Irondale Rocks!
What is your best tips for someone who wants to go all in and be a full-time artist?
We encourage young artists to mentor with seasoned artists, learn how to show, sell, run a business and do marketing.
Glass Artist Cara
You live in Irondale yourself, what are your favorite things about Irondale?
I moved to Irondale in 1972, to Holiday Gardens. I then moved away in 1976 but came back in 2007. I love that Irondale is a city that is small enough to care, but big enough to meet our needs. You can't beat this location. We have an awesome Library and Senior Activity Center.
You are an artist too, what kind of art do you make?
I was a nurse by profession, artist at heart. I discovered gourds almost 20 years ago. Since retiring, I have been able to create, take classes and participate in shows. I have been fortunate to have been recognized for my skills and have won a number of awards.
Is there anything youwould like to see changed in Irondale?
I would love for the city to have a community center for meetings, classes and a place to display and showcase our artists. I would also encourage all citizens and businesses to be involved and take ownership of your city. Attend activities, join a community group, eat and shop local, share positivity with others!
Gourds made by Lynn Marino