Stephanie Shroyer’s classes for children are now in full swing and the kids are loving them!

In two short lessons they have learned how to make marbleized paper, as well as “hand-made” paper. They’ve used products of these lessons to make beads and will soon move on to collage making. Last week Stephanie gave them a short lesson in gallery etiquette and taught them something about the different types of art, such as the “abstract” style.

We at the LPAA are so happy to see the Mary Nichols Gallery/Arts Center at 301 Burleson in Smithville being used for so many diverse purposes. In addition to having an art gallery displaying the wonderful works of our talented local artists, the classrooms and meeting areas upstairs are being put to good use several times a week.

If you would like to teach some sort of arts or crafts project or lessons, get in touch with me at 577-5252.

Open Studio

The first “open studio” at the Mary Nichols Center was last week and we expect it to grow into an important part of all our artists’ schedules. There is nothing like being in the company of creative people to get those “juices” flowing! From 1-8 p.m. on every Wednesday, anyone can join us. Come for an hour or for seven hours.

Bring whatever project you’re working on or just come and “hang out.” The artists there might just find something for you to do. You’ll become inspired.  Membership is not required and there is no charge. You can bring a lunch or snacks if you like.

First Saturday Arts Festival

March is just around the corner and with it the First Saturday Arts Festival in Smithville. It’s not too late to get a booth to show and sell your hand-made creations.

Call P.K. Scott at 512-633-9972 to reserve your place or go to the LPAA website at www.LostPinesArtisansAlliance.org to get more information and download an application.

If you’re not an artist, then come for the fun. The first band to play for us this year will be the Peterson Brothers, young teenaged boys who play rock, rythym and blues and good old music that we all can enjoy.

Take a free ride on the Ann Powell Train for a tour of Smithville; let the kids do a free craft project. First and foremost, be amazed by the original art produced by the talented people in our region.

Remember that Stephanie Strange’s work is showing at the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild Gallery, 1009 Main in Bastrop, through the end of the month. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day but Sunday.