Creative Art Exchange and Children's Arts Project held a reception Friday at Cornelius Arts Center to welcome new director Kim Beard (right). She will oversee a merger of the groups. (David Boraks photo)

Fall classes begin Sept. 8 at Creative Art Exchange and Children’s Arts Project, which have a variety of offerings, including pottery and ceramics, drawing, photography, and introductory printmaking for adults; and music and art classes and drop-in activities for children from 18 months to fifth grade. All classes are in the Cornelius Arts Center, in the Oak Street Mill, 19725 Oak St., behind the police station in Cornelius.

Meanwhile, woodturner Gene Shook will lead a two-hour “Wooden Toy Demonstration” workshop at the arts center on Saturday, Sept. 6, 10 a.m.  And the groups will have an open house on Saturday, Sept. 27, 1-4 p.m. For more information, call 704-892-7323.

The fall class sessions come as the two organizations begin their planned merger. Kim Beard has taken over as interim director of the two groups to help oversee the merger. Read more in our Aug. 13 news item.