Art center treasure of the island

M any local artists house their original work at the Art Center for

the Islands. Located

in the heart of town at 323 N. Alister St., the center features a gallery, gift shop, classes, workshops and sponsors art festivals and events throughout the year.

It is a nonprofit organization, in its 14th year of serving Mustang and Padre islands.

Classes and workshops are available in a variety of media from watercolors to acrylics, oils, pottery and even jewelry. Schedules are available at the center, and are announced in the weekly editions of the South Jetty.

Year round, the art center hosts First Friday receptions showcasing featured artists. The receptions include hors d’oeuvres, wine and live music as art-lovers browse through the exhibits. Held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the first Friday of the month, the receptions are free and open to the public. Works in the shows remain on display for the remainder of the month, coming down in time to make way for the next exhibit.

The Art Center for the Islands is a great place to find that perfect peice of art, or take a class and learn how to create your own masterpiece. On the third Saturday of each month, the center holds a Third Saturday Sale, when member artists discount their works for up to 50 percent off the regular price.

Throughout the year, the center hosts a variety of fundraising events, including the PA Art About in October, a benefit sushi tasting in March and Fiesta de Mayo, ArtFest and Songwriters’ Showcase in May.

Corporate sponsors help fund the art center on a monthly basis. Sponsorships, at $1,000 per month, may be shouldered by an individual or business, or shared by two or more individuals or businesses.

The art center, a community of artists since 1996, is open daily to the public.

First Friday attendees enjoy live music. For more informa- tion, call 749-7334, e-mail artcenter@centurytel.net or visit www.portaransasartcenter. org

The First Friday fall 2010 schedule follows.