Dawson County’s Bowen Center for the Arts is hosting the first installment in an art and lunch series, where participants can enjoy a causal luncheon and view the latest works on display.

The center is currently showing the Appalachian Mountain Treasures photo show, with over 130 works on display. The Georgia ForestWatch and the Georgia Chapter of the Sierra Club held their awards reception for the photo show March 3.

The juried event attracted 66 southeastern professional and amateur photographers to compete for over $4,000 in prizes and awards.

Cash prize sponsors for this event, who provided $500 for first prize and $250 for second, were The Dobbs Fund, The Bowen Center for the Arts, North Georgia Community Foundation, Mohawk Carpet Foundation and the Georgia Chapter of the Sierra Club. Merchandize sponsors were Patagonia, Len Foote Hike Inn and the Bowen.

The Bowen wishes to thank all those who contributed their time and talent in artwork, as well as the incredible volunteers who make it work. Also a special thanks to Judges Larry Winslett of Dahlonega, Peter McIntosh of Clayton and Horace Hamilton of Duluth for creating a one-of-a-kind show from the 253 entries received. These judges will also have work on display.

Come tour the Appalachian at the Bowen Center for the Arts on Wednesday, March 28 for a buffet-style luncheon to see the award-winning work. The buffet will be served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will cost $12 per person. The deadline to RSVP is March 26.

You can pay online at www.bowenarts.org or call with a credit card over the phone at (706)216-2787. Please call before March 26 if bringing a check.

 The center is located at 334 Hwy. 9 N in Dawsonville.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. All exhibits are free and open to the public.