Receptions celebrate two exhibits

Two free receptions are scheduled today, Aug. 8, to mark exhibits in visual art and advertising art.

› An open house and reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Bessie Smith Cultural Center, 200 E. M. L. King Blvd., for guests to view “African American Representations in Advertising.”

This exhibit focuses on the portrayal of blacks in advertising over the years.

From Aunt Jemima Pancakes to Uncle Ben’s Rice, this exhibit explores images used by companies to increase sales of products to the black community.

The collection is on loan from Larry Hines, who grew up in Chattanooga and began collecting in the 1960s with plastic model cars and trucks — most of which he still owns. After he started work in a cotton mill in Alabama and had a steady income, his collecting became serious. He later moved to California to work with Pan Am, and his collection continued to grow.

This exhibit will remain on view through Sept. 8.

For more information: 423-266-8658.

› Members of the Regional Art Alliance invite the public to an exhibit of their original fine art at Morning Pointe Assisted Living of Hixson, 5501 Old Hixson Pike. Today’s reception will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Refreshments will be served.

Visitors can meet the artists, view their works and cast their votes for their favorites. Artists’ prizes will be awarded based on these votes.

The exhibit will continue through Aug. 28.

For more information: 423-987-6845.