Arts celebration

This year is the 50th anniversary for the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri. To help celebrate this significant milestone, the Arts Council will honor the 36 recipients of the Otto F. Dingeldein Award with a special exhibit highlighting the work of each at this month's First Friday reception.

Otto F. Dingeldein, the first recipient of the award, founded the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri. The award was established to honor those living, artists and non-artists alike, who have made a significant impact on the community's cultural enrichment.

From photographs to artifacts to works of art, the exhibit should be a display that many in our community will enjoy.

Light hors d'oeuvres will be served, and wine will also be available for a small donation. Those wishing to learn more about the council's history and the Otto F. Dingeldein Award recipients may wish to purchase a commemorative booklet as well.

Friday's event will go from 5 to 9 p.m. at the gallery, at 32 N. Main St. in Cape Girardeau. However, those who can't attend Friday night may view the exhibit through Oct. 23 at the gallery during the arts council's normal business hours, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Also on display at Friday's reception will be several works of art from local artists. The shuttle service, complements of Eustis Gallery, will be available 5:30 to 9 p.m. from Crisp Museum at the River Campus.

Consider attending the First Friday reception this week, and congratulations to the arts council on 50 years.