Montevallo’s Art Walk drew crowds from all over the county August 24 and 25.  The Art Walk, which began in October 2011, is a collaborative effort between the city of Montevallo and the University of Montevallo.  
    This year’s “put a Bird on it” theme was a celebration for both the University of Montevallo as well as the city of Montevallo.  Artists were encouraged to feature items with birds, and many local artists built birdhouses to support the theme.  
    Art Walk originated after a group of citizens got together to discuss the idea because several of them had attended similar events in other communities such as Seattle, WA; Asheville, NC; and Fairhope, AL. Eventually, the group of individuals who became responsible for coordinating the events called themselves the “Art Walk Posse” because they felt the term “committee” was just too boring for a group interested in livening up the city.  The Posse consists of members from with the city, the university, the Montevallo Arts Council and the business community.
    Artists are primarily from the Montevallo area, but some come from all over the state.  During an art walk or an “art-after-dark,” downtown businesses fill their storefronts with a variety of artworks including, but not limited to sculpture, paintings, photography and functional art.  Residents within the town walls and far beyond flood the streets to enjoy the atmosphere around the town.  Some businesses typically provide wine and light refreshments for the guests. Some also provide performance entertainment ranging from artists creating works in front of the store, to piano playing, to face painting and even hands-on art opportunities for the visitors.
    The MHS Peacemakers helped artists to set up booths and advise visitors on directions to certain artists.
    “Every year we have the Art Walk or any other function in Montevallo, the Peacemakers are always at the top of the list,” Art Walk coordinator Holli Cost said.  “Peacemakers are hard workers and they never turn down anything we may need help in. They are always a joy to have and work with.”
    Montevallo is a town known for its artistic talent, natural beauty, interesting people, unique businesses, a solid Main Street structure and volumes of potential. The hope is that the Art walk will increase business revenues in town, encourage University students to spend their weekends in Montevallo and bring the community closer together.
    Another benefit of such events in Montevallo is the opportunity for MHS students to donate their time and talents to the community.
    “Peacemakers are becoming a “mainstay” in our community,” sponsor Rose D’Alessio said.  “Citizens of Montevallo recognize our students for the commitment and dedication they display in community involvement.”