A new Arts of the Pamlico program invites local artists to bring in their paints, their easels and anything they’re working on to join in an arts party.

The project, called Art Bar, is coordinated by AOP program director Lauri Arntsen. Arntsen said it’s an opportunity for artists to gather together in the Turnage Theatre, spur creation and learn from one another, all in a casual environment.

“Everybody just does their own thing, but what’s really beautiful is people get interested in others’ projects,” Arntsen said. “We talk a lot about art and ideas. There’s a lot of laughter. There’s a lot of advice and ideas.”

Three Art Bars have been held since launching the program — one on a recent Thursday night that was held in conjunction with several events. Arntsen said the combination of the Beaufort County Traditional Music Association’s Thursday night jam in the gallery, Art Bar tables and easels set up in the long hall leading to the theater and rehearsal for the upcoming play “The Lieutenant of Inishmore” in the theater led to a lot of art happening at once and a major draw for passersby.

“We had so much visitation and questions. It was just great to have the entire building in use,” Arntsen said.

While the event does cater to artists, it’s not limited to artists only, she said.

“It’s gotten such a good response. People can come in and work on something or just come in and get a glass of wine or beer and just watch. And we want that,” Arntsen said.

One of the offshoots of Art Bar is, through artists observing other artists’ techniques and wanting to learn more, the possibility of future workshops has arisen.

“They see what others are doing and want to learn that medium,” Arntsen said. “We certainly have the space to accommodate that.”

There’s no reservation or RSVP necessary to attend Art Bar. The schedule is tentatively set for every second Tuesday evening, but Arntsen said it’s still fluid, and firm dates are being announced on the AOP website and Facebook page.

“Art Bar has been so fun for the artists that have been coming that we’re going to make it a part of Art Walk which is the fourth Friday of every month,” Arntsen said.

The next Art Bar is scheduled for April 5 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For more information, visit artsofthepamlico.org, AOP’s Facebook page or call 252-946-2504.