Creation of a county arts council has been approved by the Sevier County Commission, and Pam Williams of Richfield was named organizational chairman.
The executive board of the Panorama Arts Council, comprising volunteers, will be headed by five executive members and four at-large members from various arts organizations, Williams said. The commission favored this type of an executive group to lead the council's program over a full-time administrator with at-large representatives.Williams, who has had longtime involvement in the arts in the county, submitted the two proposals to commissioners. She was instrumental in organizing the Commissioners Art Show and played an important role in its success as chairman during its early years.
The commission pledged to seek state and federal funding grants to help boost the council's success.
Williams said the council has the support of the Tri-County Music Guild, the Community Theater, the Commissioners' Art Show, the League of Utah Writers and the Sevier Valley Chamber Orchestra. Members of these groups believe working with an official council will be more beneficial than continuing to operate independently.
The council will coordinate, support and provide direction for existing arts and humanities groups in the county. Members will also work toward increasing awareness, understanding and appreciation of the arts, and work toward promoting more cultural and educational activities.
The group will also act as a contact organization for the Utah Arts Council, Utah Endowment for the Humanities and other government or private agencies.
One of the major problems facing the council is the need for a convention and performing arts facility, Williams said. She believes this would aid in the success of the program and help make Sevier County a destination point for those who are interested in the arts.