A new venture for the Arts Council begins this Sunday, April 15, when a public reception introduces the the newly founded Bainbridge Art Gallery. It opens in the Center’s Kirbo Room in the building with the Water Street entrance. After Sunday, the gallery will be open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., as well as on special downtown occasions, or by appointment.

Local and regional artists, both past and present, will be featured on a rotating basis, with the exhibit changing every ten to twelve weeks, according to the Gallery Manager Phyllis Lucas. Artists or members of their family are invited to submit artwork to the gallery, and each must meet certain standards. Work may also be for sale, and must be marked if it can be sold or not.

A special lighted display case with glass shelving is being constructed to showcase pottery and other small art pieces.

The current exhibit features such artists as Mary Cox, Darghan Long, Ashley Long, Herschel Chambers, Paul Kwilecki, Kathryn Lillethun, Evelyn Knight and many others.

Commenting first that Bainbridge and Decatur County have an abundance of talented artists for a small community, Lucas went on to say, “We are celebrating the legacy of art and it’s contribution to the culture of Decatur County by showcasing the many artists in this new gallery,” said Lucas.

There will be paintings, ceramics, sculpture, photography and woodcarvings. In addition there are two pieces of fine needlework created by Ginger Johnson, in the form of christening clothing she made for her grandchild.

Future shows will feature a student from the Decatur County Schools honored to be featured as Student Artist of the Month.