The Johnson Center for the Arts is preparing for the flurry of exhibits and events planned for the spring and summer seasons.

Richard Metzger, executive director of the Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center, said the calendar of events will feature local artists and former residents who have made a name for themselves in the art world “away from home.”

“We are very excited about the exhibitions and events that are planned for the spring and summer months,” Metzger said. “We’ll kick off the summer seasons with two events next week at The Studio. The ‘Concerts in the Studio” will continue on Tuesday night with a Troy University ‘Student Ensemble Showcase’ featuring the Percussion Ensemble, Phi Mu Alpha Bass Quintet, Troy Brass, Trojan Brass and Dr. Adam Blackstock and Timothy Phillips.”

The Studio will again be “the place to be” on “First Thursday” night when the Johnson Center will present “Music in the Studio” featuring Susie Norman and Ronny Shiver and Newton Campbell and JD Roberts.

“‘First Thursday’ is a tailgate type event and everyone is invited to bring a picnic and enjoy the music and fellowship,” Metzger said.

Admission is charged to “First Thursday.”

In April, former Troy resident, Mary Ann Casey’s artwork will be featured in “Behind the Images: Alabama Stories.”

“Mary Ann’s artwork features iconic Alabamians that everyone will recognize,” Metzger said. “People such as Rosa Parks, Hank Williams, Hank Williams, Jr. and Dr. George Washington Carver.”

Casey will be honored with a reception on April 19 and her show will hang until the month’s end.

The Charles Henderson High School Art Show will be an event of TroyFest, April 30 and May 1, and will feature the artwork of the winner of the TroyFest Youth Art Contest.

At the Johnson Center in May, will be the collaborative work of Greg Skaggs and Sarah Dismukes titled “Projekt Recon” in the Center’s lower gallery.

“Projekt Recon is an installation piece that was inspired by German street art,” Metzger said.

Former Trojan Chris Beck, the winner of the 2010 TroyFest Best of Show art award, will have his tin art on exhib along with the work of abstract artist, Gloe Dyne.

The summer gallery season will close with the works of Two Men 3D, Duane Paxson of Troy and Larry Godwin of Brundidge.

Paxson sculpts in wood and Godwin in metal. Their contrasting works will make for a dynamic and interesting show, Metzger said.

“We have an exciting spring and summer calendar planned for the Johnson Center Complex,” Metzger said. “We encourage the community to make regular visits to the Johnson Center Complex. The exhibitions change often so there is always something new and different to see and enjoy.”

Admission to the Johnson Center is free. Hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.