As a new initiative for 2011, the Albert Lea Art Center will present an evening lecture series on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at the art center.

Each lecture will feature local and visiting artists who will share their passion and expertise in their chosen medium. Featured artists for the lecture series will be drawn from a large pool of talent and will include painters, woodworkers, musicians, poets, potters, storytellers, jewelry artists, sculptors and more.

The first lecture series evening performance will be held on April 21 and will feature local legends, Nancy and Jack Hockenberry of Albert Lea. This dynamic duo is well known in the area for their animated and poignant poetry reading and storytelling.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer this event at the art center,” said Marty Shepard, artistic director for the Albert Lea Art Center. “We are fortunate to have so many diverse and extremely gifted artisans in the Albert Lea area. This lecture series not only showcases these talented individuals who live and work among us, but also provides us with another outlet to promote the arts in our community.”

More information on the lecture series and other upcoming events may be found at www.thealbertleaartcenter.org. The Albert Lea Art Center is located at 224 South Broadway in Albert Lea. Art center hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Gift shop and gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free.