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PARKERSBURG – The Parkersburg Art Center will hold an opening reception for an exhibit by textile artist Holly Cole on Thursday, Oct. 9, from 5-7 p.m. at the art center at Eighth and Market streets.

The event will feature food, a cash bar, family activities, and special discounts for the Parkersburg Brewing Company.

Cole’s artistic journey is as unique as her work. After a long career as a costume designer for Ringling Bros., Broadway productions, and the Muppets, she retired in 2016 and began exploring textiles as her primary art form. Blending her skills in drawing, painting, and sewing, Cole now creates quilts and free-standing fabric sculptures that often feature animals, both real and imagined. Her work ranges from whimsical character studies to poignant statements about endangered species.

The exhibit at PAC will showcase two of Cole’s series. “Dog Gestalt” captures the humorous, emotional, and sometimes silly nature of dogs, while “Endangered, Veteran, and Vanishing” highlights animals on the brink of extinction.

PAC Artistic Director Abby Hayhurst describes Cole’s work as both entertaining and profound: “Sometimes Holly’s work is a celebration of foolish and endearing animals, and sometimes it is a study in the strength and endurance these creatures need. Her work at all times conveys layered meanings, while remaining great fun to look at.”

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The reception is free for PAC members and children, with a suggested $10 donation for non-members to help support the center’s many rotating exhibits.

Cole’s exhibit will remain on display through Saturday, Nov. 8. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free, courtesy of WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center.

The Parkersburg Art Center supports creativity and culture in the community through exhibitions, programs, educational opportunities, and special events. Learn more at www.parkersburgartcenter.org or email info@parkersburgartcenter.org.