Rhinelander ArtStart will welcome two exhibitions to the ArtStart Gallery with an opening reception Thursday, Oct. 11, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The new works will replace Wisconsin Contemporary, which closed Sept. 29.

ArtStart Events Coordinator Laura Ehmann announced that Impact: The Experience of Service, a visual art exhibition that explores the impact of military service on those who have experienced it, and the ArtStart Fusion Project Exhibition will be unveiled at the Oct. 11 opening.

“Impact: The Experience of Service captures the challenges, benefits and positive and negative aspects of military duty as seen through the eyes of those who have served,” Ehmann said. “The works are by veterans who served during World War II through those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. The exhibition includes works by local artists and artists who have exhibited nationally and internationally, including at the National Veterans Art Museum.” Exhibitors include Ash Kyrie, originally from Rhinelander, who is also serving as guest curator; Melissa Doud, Lac du Flambeau; Bob Kanyusik, Rhinelander; Robert Seitz, Tomahawk; and Charles Lee Hamilton, Jr., from Irma. In total, the exhibition includes the works of 16 artists.

“In addition to the opening reception for the artists, the community is invited to dedicate a Community Wall as a tribute to veterans,” Ehmann said. Veterans and community members are welcome to post or leave photos, decorations, letters, poetry or other mementos that represent the “impact of service” on them or their families.

ArtStart will also recognize the collaborative work of four area artists and six high school students from Rhinelander, Eagle River and Phelps with the ArtStart Fusion Project Exhibition. The program honors the tradition of “master” and “apprentice” and has resulted in the creation of visual art works expressing the creativity of each participant and each partnership. The ArtStart Gallery is located at 68 S. Stevens St. in Rhinelander. There is no charge for the opening reception or dedication ceremony, and refreshments will be served. Winter gallery hours are Thursday 11a.m. to 5p.m.; Friday 1to 7p.m.; and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.