The Johnson Center for the Arts will host an artists’ reception for the “Celebrating Contemporary Art in Alabama: The Biennial 2011” from 2 until 4 p.m. Sunday and the public is invited.

More than 60 Alabama artists, all recipients of Individual Visual Art and Fine Craft Fellowships from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, are participating in the exhibition and many of them will attend the reception.

“The artists’ reception is a great opportunity for the people of our community see the artwork that is being produced in the state of Alabama and to meet the artists and discuss their artwork with them,” said Richard Metzger, Johnson Center, executive director. “Alabama has deep artistic roots that run the gamut from folk art to modern art.

This exhibition has a wide variety of artwork – metal sculpture, ceramics, quilts, furniture making, paintings, assemblages and photographs – something for everyone.

“Often when viewing an art exhibition, your thoughts are ‘What in the world was the person thinking when he or she created this pieces?’ The artists’ reception on Sunday will provide visitors an opportunity to ask questions of the artists and, therefore; gain a greater understanding of the artwork and appreciation for it.”

Metzger said that art is the first language as evidenced by cave drawings done more than 30,000 years ago.

“Cave drawings were the first attempts that humans made in trying to communicate other than by pointing,” he said. “They drew pictures to show where to hunt, what to hunt, what to plant and when. Since that time, drawings have become more complex and more abstract in conveying their feelings.

“Everybody can understand and appreciate beauty when they look at a sunset or watch the waves crashing on the shore. That’s the beauty that God has blessed us with and He has also blessed us through the creativity capacity of unique individuals – through the arts”

Metzger said that he is excited that the Johnson Center is able to bring together so many Alabama artists with such amazing creativity and talent.

“This exhibition is unique in that it brings together a large number very talented Alabama artists who are recipients of state arts council Fellowships.” he said. “I encourage everyone to join us Sunday to help welcome these artists to Troy and the Johnson Center for the Arts.”

The Johnson Center is located at 300 East Walnut Street in downtown Troy. The arts center is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free.

Group arrangements may be made by calling 334-670-2287

Accommodations will be made for dates and time.