The monthly First Friday opening at Artist Alley will take place this evening, June 4.

Artist Alley, recently named Moore County's Best Art Gallery, will be welcoming visitors from 5 to 9 p.m., and refreshments will be served. >Charlotte artist Phil Rukse will be on hand throughout the evening, and his paintings will be featured in the gallery throughout the month of June. >

"Please visit, enjoy the cheer and view this talented artist's work," says owner Jean Skipper.

In discussing his work and his inspiration, Rukse says, "My life's journey has been to capture the beauty and color of the great season of autumn. >When I was younger, I would take scenic trips with my brother >to photograph its great beauty. > The many changes one leaf can make are so inspiring to me. > To try and capture this has been my life's work. >My every waking hour has been the attempt to capture this on paper or canvas. >I hope I have made a good attempt so far and hope you enjoy my work to this point in my life."

Working primarily in acrylic paints and watercolors, Rukse accepts commissions for custom work, and his paintings are >exhibited in galleries, businesses and private collections. >

For information about the work of Phil Rukse, or the First Friday opening, >contact >Jean Skipper of Artist Alley at jeanskipper@jeanskipper.com or (910) 692-6077. >

Artist Alley is located in downtown Southern Pines, at 167 E. New Hampshire Ave.