Window display cases will not be the only place for artists at Riverland Community College to present their talent.

The college now has a gallery.

In the works since February, the gallery will finally open and host its first show Thursday.

In this first show, the art featured will be that of students from the fall semester of 2002.

Works from a selected group of 30 to 40 students, varying from two-dimensional art, ink and charcoal drawings, acrylic painting and ceramics, will make up the show.

"The students I've been getting have more potential than many of the ones I've encouraged at larger schools. It's been pretty exciting," said Tim Jones, art instructor at Riverland.

Jones said the pieces were selected by looking at the overall quality of the product so that they were not all the same.

Trying to teach students that displaying their art work and receiving input is really important, Jones emphasizes how a setting that is not distracting enhances the work.

"Every artist can gain something from the exposure, opinions and input of others," Jones said.

He said the gallery will allow to make art events part of the community.

Future plans include displaying local and regional artists, art from a diverse mix of student, community and professional artist work, and traveling shows.

The gallery is located in the Austin Campus in the West Building at 1900 Eighth Avenue NW. The show will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and admission to the gallery is free.

Roxana Orellana can be reached at 434-2214 or by e-mail at :mailto:roxana.orellana@austindailyherald.com