Article published October 30, 2006

Strand to showcase artwork

ZELIENOPLE — The Strand Theater Initiative announced it will convert its Strand Store gift shop into an art gallery during November and December.

A local artist or artistic group will be showcased each week from Monday through Wednesday for those months. Thursdays will be devoted to porcelain painting classes. On Friday and Saturdays, the store will operate as usual as the gift store.

"We are very excited about the prospect of bringing all kinds of arts and artists into Zelienople and showcasing local talent," said Ron Carter, president of the initiative, in a news release.

"The Strand's focus is certainly on performing arts, but one of our additional areas of interest is promoting arts of all forms. It is my personal hope that, once The Strand's renovation is complete, that many vacant lofts along Main Street will house an array of galleries and artists, making the area a hub of arts activities in North Pittsburgh."

The schedule of artists so far includes:
• Nov. 6 to 8 — Seneca Valley School District art teachers featuring a variety of artistic mediums
• Nov. 13 to 15 — Harmony Colours by Diane Smith
• Nov. 20 to 22 — M. Sotherden Art Glass, works in stained glass
• Nov. 27 to 29 — Painted Treasures by Frances, hand-painted porcelain
• Dec. 4 to 6 — Starfish by "Tish," hand-painted starfish including Santa, clowns and football stars

The final two weeks of December are still available if an artist would like to be considered for using the space.
For information, contact Carter at The Strand Theater Initiative, 724-742-0400 or thestrand@zoominternet.net or visit the Web site www.thestrandtheater.org.

The initiative is a nonprofit corporation working to revive the Strand as a performing arts, education and community outreach center.