Art on the River to bring artwork to Elba Theatre

Art lovers will have the opportunity to view original artwork from over 45 artists during Art on the River’s October exhibition at the historic Elba Theatre.

The exhibition was organized by Elevated Earth. It first began in May 2026 and is now set to be held twice a year, in May and October. The event gives artists an opportunity to have their work professionally displayed while bringing art and cultural experiences to rural communities.

“Ultimately, Art on the River is about connection: connecting emerging artists with more established artists, artists with collectors and new audiences, young artists with working artists, and our rural communities with a much larger creative community,” said Dr. Kat Holloway, curator for Art on the River.

This year’s exhibition will feature painting, photography, mixed media, stained glass, mosaics, digital art and other forms of visual art. All artwork displayed in the main gallery will be original, with prints and other artist-created items also available.

“There will be a lot to discover throughout the weekend, whether someone comes as an experienced collector, is looking for their first original piece of art, wants to discover artists they have never encountered before or simply wants to spend time experiencing the work and meeting the creative community behind it,” Holloway said.

One new feature of this year’s exhibition will be Art Cards, Editions and Originals (ACEOs). The miniature pieces traditionally measure 2.5 by 3.5 inches and give visitors another way to purchase original artwork.

The exhibition will also feature the Brooke Chapman Memorial Young Artist Gallery. The gallery is open to artists ages 1 through 17, with this year’s theme being Creative Use of Color. Participating artists can write notes of encouragement to younger artists through the new Artist Encouragement Project.

“Every child deserves to feel that their creativity was noticed and taken seriously,” Holloway said.

The Collector Preview Gala will take place Friday, Oct. 23, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the historic Elba Theatre. Tickets are $35 and include hors d’oeuvres and two complimentary drink tickets. The gallery will open to the public on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.