Children’s art, work from seniors and other art classes along with paintings from Comer Museum and Arts Center’s art programs for clients of the Arc of South Talladega County make for an assortment of art on display for the July exhibit. The reception for the artists is Thursday night, from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. and the public is urged to attend.
There’s the ArtPartners program, too, that pairs Arc clients with more than a dozen professional artists who volunteer their time.
These pieces of art are put up for auction for the yearly ArtPartners auction, which provides funding for the students’ art supplies.
Other adults meet for art lessons at the museum, as well, spending time together and putting out a complete painting in one session in the museum’s Tips ‘N Techniches class with instructor Felicia Norris.
And Comer Museum and Arts Center has put “Art in Public Spaces,” too, getting local artists’ work out into the places people go.
Children’s classes have been put into place, too, with instructor Jimmy Reynolds Jr. and this week brings Art Camp to the museum’s basement studios.
Camp instructors are Jimmy Reynolds Jr., Ricky McCain, Carol Laney, Donna Rentfrow, Larry Hurr and Melissa McMillan.
Camp sessions have been designed for four hours each, with instruction in history and painting, drawing and sculpture along with song and dance.
With the theme “Vacation Destinations,” the classes have “visited” places that include Disney world, The Smoky Mountains and The Grand Canyon.
The museum has an outreach art program for seniors, too, and museum director Donna Rentfrow takes on this program herself with residents of Coosa Valley Nursing Home.
All of this together has produced lots of art, so much so that the museum hosts a special exhibit this month to showcase it all.
“It’s just amazing what has been done,” Rentfrow said. “And we can’t wait for everyone to see how much art and the quality of art being produced by these classes.”
Paintings and drawings, along with multi-media pieces and pottery are in the collection, done by approximately 70 artists.
“We are truly fortunate to have such patient and talented artists involved with the museum who are willing to teach and share their knowledge and techniques,” Rentfrow said. “It is evident that they continue to inspire so many individuals, as it became necessary to expand our classroom space to accommodate our growing classes.”
There will be some pieces for sale among the works on display.
A public reception will be held Thursday, starting at 6:30 p.m. and continuing until 8 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend and view the exhibit, along with enjoy refreshments and entertainment.
Guitarist and vocalist Jim Hopkins will play and there will be beverages and finger foods.
“We hope everyone will come and join us for an evening of fun and perhaps get inspired to experience some form of ‘hand on’ art for themselves,” Rentfrow said.
The exhibit may also be viewed during regular museum hours, Tuesday through Thursday between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. You may call the museum at 256/245-4016 for information about classes.
