ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - If you are an artist or an art lover, visit the Elk Grove Fine Arts Center. Since 2008, this nonprofit organization has supported local artists. 

“Local artists are contacted by email and invited to have their work curated,” said gallery manager Darrci Robertson. “Seventy artists applied this year. We look for quality and composition. When selected, the artists decide on a theme. They create five small panels on precut wood in their chosen medium. We call this project the ‘Small Treasures Event.’”

The artists chose from themes that include landscapes, fish, flowers, portraits, shells, butterflies and dogs. Different media were also used, including oil, pencil drawings, etchings, glass, mosaics, metal and sculpture.

Other displays in the spacious gallery include handmade jewelry, tree ornaments, pottery, ceramics, woodcraft, batik and silk painting. If you are seeking a unique gift for this holiday season, the Christmas boutique is open November through December. An original painting by a local artist makes a one-of-a-kind gift.

Every month, the Elk Grove Arts Center hosts a First Saturday Public Reception from 4 to 7 p.m. Enjoy live music, refreshments and an opportunity to meet the month’s featured artists. The next reception will be on Dec. 7.

Elk Grove students in ninth to 12th grades can display their talents in a yearly art competition’s seven categories. A judge is hired to decide which participants will take home the monetary prizes and ribbons. A public Celebration of Art is held at the Elk Grove Fine Arts Center featuring these students’ work. 

This competition is a boost for art students to include in their college applications.

The artists who display their work here appreciate a space where they can share their work with the community and beyond. 

“I used to mainly paint traditional scenes but this venue has given me an opportunity to challenge myself,” said Robert Thompson, an artist at the gallery. “I’m branching out and trying some science fiction and fantasy settings.”

Would you like to learn to draw or paint or enjoy craft workshop classes? There are classes available in November and December. The fee often includes the supplies needed to complete a project. Register online at www.elkgrovefineartscenter.org. 

Although the City of Elk Grove helps to support this worthwhile endeavor, you can help, too. There are tangible benefits that come with annual membership. 

Depending on how much you want to contribute, there are various levels to suit your budget. There is even a special price for young-at-heart senior members. Go to www,elkgrovefineartscenter.org for more information. Contributions are tax-deductible. 

Although the address is 9020 Elk Grove Blvd., Suite 101, the entrance faces Walnut Avenue.