Despite the majority of Eastern’s students clearing out over the summer, the Tarble Arts Center will continue to host several programs in the coming months.

The 33rd annual Children’s Art Exhibition will be on display from May 2 until May 24, with the Children’s Art Exhibition Awards Reception being held on May 17.

Glenn Hild, the interim dean of the college of arts and humanities department, said the children’s art reception is a very positive event for all those involved.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity for local students and a great outreach to the community,” said Hild.

The Children’s Art Exhibition will feature art from approximately 200 students from nearly 45 area schools, Hild said.  The art is chosen by art teachers from the different area schools and then sent to Tarble to be displayed.

Tarble will also be putting on classes for young children from June 8 through June 24.  The instructor for these classes, Eastern graduate Josh Doniek, is excited to be teaching the classes for children.

“(Tarble Arts Center) is a great tool in helping inspire young artists to be their best and gives them opportunities to learn more about art and themselves as creators,” Doniek said.

The three classes vary in price from $24 to $43, depending on the age of the student. The three classes are for children ages 4 to 6, 7 to 9, and 10 to 14.

William Weber, former vice president of business affairs, will host “Studio Glass” from May 16 until June 28.  It will showcase selections from Weber’s own collection of glass-related artwork from a variety of artists.

Sally Bock, the office administrator for the Tarble, described Weber as a collector and said that it took careful consideration to pick the right pieces for the exhibition.

“This isn’t something that we just throw together,” Bock said.  “We start literally a year out to plan this.”

Tarble will also be hosting “Above and Beyond,” an exhibit that will feature 3D artwork from seven emeritus Eastern professors, from June 6 until Aug. 2.  On June 15, the Tarble will welcome Rehema Barber as its new director.

Tarble’s hours will also change over the summer. They will be open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday the center will be open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Derrin Coad can be reached at 581-2812 or at dkcoad@eiu.edu.