The photography and painting of Frank Pierce is the featured artist for September at the Campbell House Galleries.

Pierce's interest and talent in art were spotted at an early age by his parents, who encouraged him to develop his talent.

His first show, at the age of 9, took place at the art department at UNC-Chapel Hill. A high school art teacher led Pierce to paint in oils, and Pierce sold his first oil painting at the age of 16.

During his tenure in the Air Force, Pierce worked as an illustrator and happened to befriend the base -photographer who taught him studio light and darkroom techniques.

Pierce spent his working life as a fine artist, freelance photographer, illustrator and graphic designer. He moved to Moore County in 1988, and in 2002, he opened his studio on Broad Street in Southern Pines.

In 2010, he added a fine arts gallery, Eye Candy, which includes a frame shop and a fine arts print shop.

Pierce has traveled to 38 states and 14 foreign countries to paint and shoot photos.

He has participated in exhibits at Sandhills Community College, Raleigh Fine Arts Society, Art Source in Raleigh, the Woods Gallery and a gallery on Bald Head Island. His work can be found in -collections around the world.

"My attitude is, don't be an art snob," says Pierce. "As long as you get results and no one gets hurt, do whatever it takes to turn out a good art piece."

Pierce also believes that "painting is like music, dance, drama, or any other art form. It requires study and practice, and you aren't an artist if you don't make art."

The exhibit is on display through Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. -weekdays.

The Campbell House Galleries are located at 482 East Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines.

For more information about the exhibit, contact the Arts Council of Moore County at (910) 692-2787 or visit the website www.mooreart.org.