From Aug. 31 through Sept 28, Eye Candy Gallery will feature works by students, both past and present, of Frank Pierce.

On Friday, Aug. 31, from 6 to 9 p.m., the gallery will host a reception featuring its emerging student artists, who will be on hand to meet all visitors. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served; wine and beer will be available for purchase.

Pierce, owner of Eye Candy Gallery, began teaching in his studio five years ago and moved his classes to the gallery when it opened nearly two years ago.

Pierce’s students come from a variety of backgrounds, from technical writers to bankers to golf pros to designers and all points in between.

The youngest student is about to turn 12 years old and the oldest is 89 years. Many had no previous art experience.

Pierce says that his one constant great joy in life is art, and it pleases him greatly to pass on that joy by teaching others.

Many of his students have become successful artists, winning awards, getting commissions and selling their works on a regular basis.

Pierce currently offers three oil painting classes weekly, although participants are not limited to oil painting. It is not unusual to find students exploring and combining other media. Students of all experience levels work side by side.

Pierce encourages everyone to select subject matter they like and to paint in the styles they find pleasing.

Among the artists represented are Patricia Goble, Heather McKeithan, Doris Smith, Stephanie Slack, Maribeth Schrum, Sara Hendrix, Gwen Dumas, Nancy Rawlinson, Pat Crow, Frederick Coxen, Irene McFarland, Jan Leitschuh, Jude Winkley, Margo Matarese, Nanette Zeller, Vicki Jolliff and Miriam Chu.

To see works by Frank Pierce, the public is also invited to his show at the Campbell House Galleries from Sept. 7 through Sept. 28. Visit the ACMC website www.mooreart.org for information on that event.

Eye Candy Gallery and Wine Bar features local and regional artists. The gallery is located at 275 NE Broad St., Southern Pines.

Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information, call (910) 246-2266 or visit the website www.eye-candy-gallery.com.