Hollyhocks Art Gallery invites the public to the 12th Annual Holiday open house in Pinehurst on Friday Nov. 16, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Appetizers and a selection of fine wines, courtesy of Elliott's on Linden, will be served.

"This is a great opportunity to meet all the artists and view a selection of original artwork and equine sculpture especially selected for the holidays and the gift-giving season," says gallery owner-artist Jane Casnellie.

"In addition, I am pleased to welcome two new artists to Hollyhocks, Durham artist Phyllis Andrews, and local artist Betty DiBartolomeo (aka BC DreamCatcher), both of whom joined the gallery in October, adding to our already talented group of gallery members, local artists Diane Kraudelt, Carol Rotter and equine sculptor, Morgen Kilborn."

DiBartolomeo is a longtime resident of the Sandhills who began her artistic journey at the age of 11, attending the gifted children's program at the Detroit Institute of Art.

By age 14, she was awarded two Gold Medals in the National Scholastic Exhibition in Pittsburgh. The rest is history, and after a long and successful career in the corporate world, she now focuses on her passion for the fine arts.

DiBartolomeo works in various mediums, including oils. Her work is masterful, varied in subject and strong, reflecting her many years of study, love of the land and human form.

Durham artist Phyllis Andrews took up painting at age 40 after a long and successful career as a biochemist.

Initially, working in acrylics, she concentrated mostly on landscapes but gradually expanded her subjects to include interiors. However, her penchant for the whimsy in life shines through in her realistic portrayals of countryside and fireside scenes with trusted four-legged friends.

In 2011 she was a finalist in The Artist's Magazine national painting competition.

Hollyhocks Art Gallery offers a large selection of original works of art and equine sculpture in a wide variety of styles, sizes and prices.

Giclees and prints are also available, and for those looking for something really special, commissions are also available. Attendees will be able to sign up to win a signed giclee by Casnellie.

Hollyhocks Art Gallery is located at 905 Linden Road in Pinehurst, next to Elliott's restaurant, and is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Call (910) 255-0665 or visit www.janecasnellie.com.