Artist Alley in downtown Southern Pines will host a First Friday opening featuring Wayne Black, a scroll cut wood artist, and Amy Smith, painter and collage artist.

The event will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5. Artists will be present throughout the evening to meet with visitors and discuss their work. The event is open to the public, and refreshments will be provided.

Amy Smith says she has been creative for as long as she can remember.

"As a child, I spent long afternoons on the top shelf of my closet with a stack of typing paper and pack of magic markers," she says.

Only in her 30s did she begin to pursue her art more seriously.

"I regard creating as a necessary process to stay balanced in my busy life rather than as a hobby," she says.

Smith works primarily in acrylics with collage elements. Her paintings often have veiled layers to invite the viewer to look more closely. She uses vibrant colors and energetic patterns to portray natural and huma- made environments and tell stories about the people who move through them.

"I am pleased to reveal a new painting on First Friday of my interpretation of a historic downtown Southern Pines landmark," she says.

Wayne Black has always enjoyed working with wood.

"I started out building bookshelves, tables and other carpentry projects," he says.

About two years ago he was inspired to take his woodworking down a more artistic path. He purchased a scroll saw and pattern book and got to work.

"I enjoyed the process and the results, and have continued to work in this style, expanding my subject matter and improving my skills," he says.

Black's artwork is very much a family affair. His wife helps him choose his designs. His youngest daughter, herself an artist, helps him with shows and displays.

Wayne offers two- and three-dimensional works in wood. At Artist Alley, he displays a large number of wildlife pieces. His favorite recent creations are two sculptures. One is of an eagle, and the other a cross.

"If you can't make it for the opening, visit the gallery during regular hours, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday," says Jean Skipper, gallery owner.

Artist Alley is located in downtown Southern Pines at 167 E. New Hampshire Avenue. For more information about the First Friday opening or the gallery, call 692-6077.