Those out and about for downtown Washington’s Art Walk Friday will get a sneak peak at the annual Student Art Show in its new location: the Turnage Theater gallery.

The arts council has been showcasing the work of kindergarteners through seniors in Beaufort County Schools for over 30 years, making the exhibit one of the organization’s oldest ongoing exhibits, and the location is breathing new life into the show.

“We are very excited to host one of our favorite shows at our new gallery space,” said Joey Toler, executive director of the Beaufort County Arts Council.

While the opening reception will not be held until Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., the show has been hung and the gallery will be open for downtown’s Art Walk Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Art Walk is a simultaneous showcase of local visual artists, by way of exhibits, receptions and entertainment, held by downtown Washington galleries and merchants on the last Friday of the month.

Toler said he’s hoping the sneak peak will generate more interest in the budding talent of Beaufort County Schools’ students.

“It’s really an opportunity for young artists to have the experience of seeing their work in a real exhibition, and we try to make it memorable and professional,” Toler explained. “All the while, we’re encouraging their efforts to continue making art.”

The show also invites a different demographic to the arts council and the Turnage Theater: parents, grandparents, family and friends.

“It definitely the most family-oriented exhibit we have every year,” Toler said.

In addition to the Turnage gallery, Art Tyndall Studio, Lone Leaf Gallery & Custom Framing, River Walk Gallery and Arts Center and Inner Banks Artisans’ Center are participating in the first Art Walk of the season. According to Washington Harbor District Alliance Executive Director Beth Byrd Little Shoppes will also be hosting an artist. Byrd is encouraging people to get out and enjoy Friday’s predicted warmer weather.

“(Art Walk) is just all about camaraderie, seeing your neighbors downtown, people you haven’t seen all winter long because the weather’s been so bad,” Byrd laughed.

Toler said for those who miss Art Walk and the Student Art Show opening reception, the exhibit will be on display through May 1. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 252-946-2504 or visit www.beaufortcountyartscouncil.org.