The Bowen Arts Center recently held a reception to celebrate the opening of its newest exhibit, 4 Southern Artists.

The exhibit features sculptures, drawings and abstract paintings from four Atlanta artists: Tom Wood, Dick Henderson, Jerry Sullivan and Bob Cargill.

Marcia Chelf, executive director for the center, said that hosting an exhibit from artists outside of the Dawson County area should entice a different type of tourist to visit the county.

"It should really help bring in some out-of-town guests that may otherwise not visit the area," Chelf said. "Not only does Dawson County have all of the outdoor activities tourists enjoy, but with the arts center, we have an indoor attraction as well."

According to Chelf, all four of the artists are members of the Dawson County Arts Council and have been for several years.

"And all of their work is a little different," Chelf added. "All four bring a different form of art to the exhibit."

The exhibit will run through the end of August, and will be followed by a Fiber Arts exhibit in September.

Also in September, the center will hold its Mystery Dinner Theatre, in which about 50 guests will have dinner while trying to solve a murder mystery.

"That is put on by our theatre group and is always a big hit," Chelf said. "We sell out of tickets pretty quickly."

A "Yart Sale," planned for October, will feature area artists selling pieces of art in a yard sale format at discount prices in front of the center.

Patrons can always purchase custom, hand-made, one-of-a-kind jewelry made by Pat Martin and Margret von Keiser in the center's store.

For more information, call the center at (706) 216-2787.