The South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado will be hosting an Arts Academy Student Art Reception on Tuesday from 5:30 -7:00 p.m.

A news release from SAAC on Dec. 13 said, “This event will showcase the works of SAAC’s Arts Academy students, who have been exploring a diverse range of artistic disciplines throughout the fall semester.”

According to the release, “For 12 weeks each semester, SAAC students, ranging from four years old to 12th grade, engage in a variety of artistic endeavors under the guidance of dedicated instructors. At the end of each semester, SAAC showcases the works of these students. This semester’s showcase includes pieces from Advanced Art Study and Studio Art classes with Maria Botti Villegas, Visual Art classes with Katie Harwell and Nicole McAdams, and Pencil Drawing, Graphic Arts, and Art Meets Science classes with Mike Means.”

The Arts Academy Student Showcase will be in the Price and Lobby Galleries at SAAC from Dec. 16-20.

The reception is also scheduled to celebrate the exhibition “Our World” by Plano, TX artist Douglas Darracott.

According to the release, Darracott is originally from El Dorado and lived in the city until the 6th grade.

“His acrylic paintings explore the intricate connections between human and animal habitats, prompting viewers to reflect on the spaces we create,” said the release. “Darracott has dedicated this exhibition to his beloved 5th-grade teacher, Mrs. Lannater Fox, from Yocum Elementary School. “Our World” is currently displayed in the Merkle Gallery through January 3, 2025 with the reception on Tues., Dec 17 from 5:30-7pm being sponsored by the Fox Family.”

SAAC is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado and the galleries are free and open to the public Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm. For more information about the reception or exhibitions, please visit www.saac-arts.org or contact SAAC at 870-862-5474.