The New York Artist Shop, 1124 New York Ave., St. Cloud, is hosting an artist reception Friday from 5 to 9 p.m., featuring the artist of the month Barbara Alderman.

Alderman began studying oil painting at the Osceola Center for the Arts in the 1970s and continued studying when she moved to Ft. Lauderdale in the late 1970s with private lessons from working artists there.

She has exhibited in the Kissimmee Art Show, and in shows in Pompano Beach and Ft. Lauderdale.

When she returned to Kissimmee in the early 1980s, she retired from the art world to raise her children, volunteer in the schools, and work with Scouts and her church, while working part time.

Now, she is retired again and has resumed her studies at the art center using Prisma Colored Pencils and acrylic paint.

Alderman has exhibited in several shows here and won awards for her work.

During the reception, there will be an open mike event downtown with local musicians on the stage across the street from the shop as well as at some of the eateries in the downtown area.

While people enjoy Alderman’s artwork, they also will be able to stroll around town and enjoy the other festivities taking place downtown.

Shops will be open, the food trucks and old cars will be here and there’s a chance to win a gift basket filled with goodies from the local merchants.

The New York Artists Shop hosts a free-featured artist reception on the third Friday of every month.

Light refreshments will be served.