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Here is just another example of how the arts impact us every single day in so many different ways. I happen to know from a great source that the Art League adds the culinary arts to its choice of classes.

The word “culinary” is defined as something related to, or connected with cooking. Art can be defined as the creation of beautiful or thought-provoking works; put together, culinary art is the art of cooking.

Culinary artists are responsible for skillfully preparing meals that are as pleasing to the palate as to the eye. If you think about it, no matter where you eat, the creative process takes place. Now, I must agree that they may not all be at the same level, but think about it. Whether you are eating at home, at a fast food chain or at your favorite restaurant, there is the essence of making the meal pleasing to the eye.

How about those chains that package your food to go? I bet if you looked at the items, you’d see pictures on the wrappings or logos; these require the skills of an artist. Or how about the plates, bowls or cups you serve your own food in at home? Even if you use paper plates, these items were designed by an artist. Then, take your favorite restaurant where you will see not only the creative items in which the food is served on, but also the arrangement of the meal on the plate. How they choose certain vegetables by not just the taste that will enhance the entrée the best, but also the color and the seasoning; creating a palette for your palate.

My experience has been that many people think they have to love the arts in order to support or participate in them. I have also experienced that many people think they have to already know some aspect of the arts before they can even learn about the arts. I think food and eating are everyday experiences that all of us have (or I certainly hope all of us have). What better way to learn more about the arts and realize their impact in your life than to take a cooking class?

Yes, you can spice up your meal while also turning up your awareness of the arts by taking a class. Some of our local chefs, who have offered cooking classes during the years, will be doing this again. I know the Art League is excited about venturing into this new territory in the arts. Not just to offer new programs but to continue to emphasize awareness and that the arts are indeed a part of everyday life.

In October, “Cooking with Elaina” will be taking place at the Center for the Arts. Elaina LaGrotta is the executive chef and co-owner of LaGrotta’s Restaurant and Catering.

Even the prelude to the class description is creative. “It’s white sandy beaches ... It’s palm trees blowing gracefully in the gentle breeze ... It’s Marco Island ... It’s, Paradise found ... It’s, it’s, it’s ... About that time again ... you know, Cocktail/Holiday Party season.”

Elaina shares with us that the workshop will offer party planning tips, tricks and techniques for everyone from culinary novices to seasoned cooks. Learn everything you need to know about dishes that will “knock their socks off!”

All that takes place at the Art League, this is a fun social happening. Classmates will be encouraged to taste and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Aspects of the cocktail party, “holidaze” entertaining and the thrill of the grill are covered. The creative process does not stop there. The ingredients, supplies, beverages and wine (I know, does the Art League ever do anything without it?) and recipes will all be provided.

The hope is that this does not get tiresome, or continue to remind many of an old cliché, but the arts are everywhere. Each time I sit to write, the thought process seems to take me back to that. I really believe it. I live by it and hope that one more eye sees it, one more ear hears it, or one more mouth tastes... no, says it.

Learn more about what’s cookin’ in the arts by checking out the Arts Calendar in the Eagle.

Christine Neal is the executive director of Marco Island’s Center of the Arts. She holds an Associate of Arts Degree in the Liberal Arts with emphasis in the Fine Arts and various certifications and designations in business and the arts. An award winning artist, with 20-plus years in management and sales. Marco Island’s Center for the Arts is located at 1010 Winterberry Drive 239-394-4221 mail@marcoislandart.com.