By Ann Nichols, Arts Writer

Each fall and spring, In-Town Gallery hosts a special exhibition to showcase the most recent creations of its 30 artists. The event also serves to introduce the newest members inducted into the gallery.

“Spring Into Art,” the annual spring exhibition, opens Friday with a catered reception from 5 to 8 p.m. and colorful arrangements planted through the gallery to enhance the theme of the show.

The artwork of new members Peggy Huffstutler and Mary Helen Robert will be featured on the front wall.

Ms. Huffstutler worked with water media and collage elements to create her impressionistic landscapes of Savannah, Ga., that will be on display in the show.

“I paint to capture the places I’ve been and because I love the sheer act of painting,” she said. “I like to experiment, too, with different subjects.”

The full-time artist has been painting for 40 years and studied with the late George Cress at what was then the University of Chattanooga.

Ms. Robert’s fascination with anthropology and other cultures manifests in the designs of her fine silver, sterling silver and 22K gold jewelry.

“Swirls, circles and ancient symbols show up in my work,” she said. “I’ve always loved jewelry and adorning the body, so I enjoy making art that people can wear.”

A native of Chattanooga, Ms. Robert studied anthropology and psychology at Middle Tennessee State University and jewelry construction at John C. Campbell Folk School and the University of Texas at Austin. She recently moved back to Chattanooga from Austin to become a full-time artist.

In-Town Gallery’s spring exhibit will remain on display through May.

Located at 26 Frazier Ave. on the North Shore, the gallery is open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. For information, call 267-9214.