Authors, musicians, a carpenter, a quilter and a potter, came out to showcase their talents to the community at the sixth annual Black Belt Treasures’ Rave 2011 Festival in Camden Saturday.

Founded in the fall of 2005 by the Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission as a way to draw tourists, the gathering drew more than 75 artists. Now, more than 350 artists from 19 surrounding counties have participated in the event.

Sulynn Creswell, director of Black Belt Treasures, said the event is a great way to bring exposure to artists.

“We want to make people aware of the great talent we have here in the Black Belt,” Creswell said. “Artists can not only sell their creations and get 70 percent of the retail but this opportunity has led many to start their own businesses and establish art education.”

Creswell said the public has embraced the artists and their work.

“I think the public are absolutely amazed at what they see when they come here,” Creswell said. “It’s people just like them, doing beautiful work from the finest detail to the more simple. The heritage of arts can be passed to the next generation.”

The artists’ works, Creswell said, have helped the economy — bringing in more than $750,000.

Evette Woods, assistant gallery manager, said the center gets a lot of traffic.

“We have a lot of people from out of town — all 50 states and from 20 foreign countries,” Woods said. “This event gives customers the opportunity to work with artists and put a face on the art work, giving it more value. The exchange is more personal.”

Kristin Law, arts coordinator for the Black Belt Community Foundation, has seen the way Black Belt Treasures has impacted artists’ lives.

“It’s built up a lot of artist’s self-esteem,” Law said. “The public appreciates the artwork and who the artists are. It becomes more than a craft for artists and it’s a great way to supplement some of their income as well.”

For Kathy McCoy, a non-fiction historical novelist who has written three books in her spare time, this is her first trip to the rave. She believes it’s a time for artists to bond.

“It’s a community gathering point for all artists in Camden,” McCoy said.

Whether you’re an avid reader, are intrigued by homemade pottery, or enjoy unique music, there is something for you to enjoy at this year’s Black Belt Treasures.

The event culminated around 3 p.m.