ASHLAND, Ky.

Monday, November 19, 2001

ASHLAND, Ky. – The Ashland Area Art Gallery, which serves artists in Kentucky, West Virginia and Ohio, announced a major expansion last week – part of the organization’s 30th anniversary celebration.

The gallery, at 1516 Winchester Ave., Ashland, has existed as a visual arts organization for 30 years, and now includes a state-of-the-art pottery and sculpture studio for beginner and intermediate students, said Brenda Keathley, executive director.

A grand opening was held Friday at the gallery, open to the public, media and local government officials.

Local and area artists also attended the event.

With the new pottery and sculpture studio, the gallery’s participants can prepare for a lucrative career in art or study as lifelong hobbyists, Keathley said in a news release about the event.

The gallery is unveiling a fully-equipped professional studio setting under the direction of highly-trained instructors. Participants can learn at their own pace the art of wheel-thrown pottery.

Eight-week sessions are offered on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Additional classes in other media also are forming, including classes in watercolor, freehand sculpture, stained glass and more.

For information about pottery classes, or other media workshops, call the gallery at 606-329-1826.