During July, Fort Smith Art Center will exhibit works by three local artists: Lorraine Dobbs, Jane Peoples, and Diane Starr. The exhibit will open with a free, drop-in reception on Thursday, July 3rd from 5 to 7 p.m., and will remain on view through July 26. 

Artist Jane Peoples of Van Buren will exhibit the three-dimensional assemblages she creates by combining found objects and recycled materials. Her artist’s statement says: “I have no interest in cleaning and reprocessing my raw materials, but strive to accept them as they are: dented, broken, dirty, rusted… USED. I’m drawn to the notion that something deemed ‘no longer useful’ can be redirected to create that which is meaningful, inspiring, and even beautiful -- a new purpose for what would otherwise have been rejected and discarded.”

Artist Diane Starr of Muldrow, Oklahoma, will exhibit a variety of artworks including portraits, western and Indian-themed wood carvings, watercolors and drawings. Diane’s work is represented in private collections throughout the United States, Europe, South America, and Asia. In an artist’s statement she says: “The act of creating, of responding instinctively to what is seen, benefits the artist in a profound way…. Taking the time to see, to stop and really look, make sketches, ask ourselves questions and search for the answers, puts us in touch with a deeper reality -- a sustaining strength.”

Artist Lorraine Dobbs of Fort Smith will exhibit her oil paintings, still lifes and landscapes. Her work has been shown and sold in numerous regional and local galleries and shows. Dobbs recently coordinated a group exhibition of works by artistic families, at Fort Smith Art Center.