New art gallery recognizes local soldier

Art and military service collided on Sunday at the opening of the Art Gallery at the Prattville Center for the Creative Arts.

The Flag Day event included a portrait of a soldier recently returned from Iraq. Dustin Gish recently returned and is living in Prattville. His mother, Sarita Gish, painted the portrait and is a member of the the Prattauga Art Guild. The soldier attended the ceremony.

The Center is located on Chestnut behind City Hall adjacent to the art park along the Creek Walk. The opening exhibit features art work by members of the Prattauga Art Guild from throughout the River Region.

Included in the exhibit are pieces from the permanent collection by Charlie “Tin Man” Lucas, folk artist and sculptor from Pink Lily, Alabama; Russell Everett, artist, sculptor, and art educator from Troy University; Nancy Raia, artist and art educator from Fairhope, Alabama; Zachary Wickham, glass artist from Vermont; and Wade Oliver, clay artist from Birmingham, Alabama.

The works will remain on exhibit through the end of July. The Gallery also has a selection of fine art prints, note cards, and other gift items for sale by members of the Prattauga Art Guild. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for late summer.