Woody, a retired art teacher from Smoky Mountain High School and a studio artist, has a long history of involvement in the arts in Jackson County. She follows Claire Collins and Sylvia Smythe as the most recent presidents of the 40-year-old Jackson County Arts Council.

“I am following in some large footsteps, folks who have paved the way for a vibrant and varied arts community in Jackson County,” Woody said.

The Jackson County Arts Council Board of Directors has made it a recent goal to partner with existing programs that celebrate the arts.

“We have a rich cultural heritage of talent in all art forms here in Jackson County. Literary artists, musical artists, visual artists, dramatic artists, and dance artists have an important place in our artistic landscape in Jackson County. The arts council is committed to join in supporting arts programming whenever possible,” Woody said.

The JCAC is sponsoring monthly “Artist Talks” on the second Monday of each month in the Community Room of the Jackson County Library Complex. This is an opportunity for local artists to share their art form and engage with the community.

Contact Gayle Woody at 828.507.9820 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..