The Johnson Center for the Arts has extended its hours over the Thanksgiving holidays so to make viewing “The Roots Exhibit: The Artists of Pike County” more convenient for residents and visitors to the community.

The Johnson Center will be open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Friday and from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday,

“We extended the hours so that the community can come and celebrate the works of 40 artists from Pike County,” said Richard Metzger, Johnson Center director. “Most all of those who come to ‘The Roots Exhibit’ will know some of the artists personally or know of them. It’s a very varied exhibit. It’s interesting and exciting and knowing the artists makes it especially so.”

Metzger said local response to “The Roots Exhibit” has been overwhelming.

“We had 250 or more people come out for the artist’s meet and greet reception on Nov. 13 and we continue to have a lot of visitors,” he said. “Each of the artists brought three to five pieces. The show fills all seven of our galleries so it’s a big exhibition and a very good one.”

The day after Thanksgiving is Black Friday, which is the biggest shopping day of the season.

“A visit to the Johnson Center for the Arts will be nice break from shopping and a fun outing for those who don’t shop and want to get out and walk off some of the turkey,” Metzger said. He added, laughing, that hopefully people will drop by on Saturday afternoon to keep him updated on the score at the Iron Bowl.

An added attraction for the holidays will be the decorating of the Johnson Center’s eight to 10 Christmas trees.

“The Christmas trees will complement the artists exhibit,” Metzger said. “The trees are sponsored by local businesses, organizations and schools and are creatively decorated.”

Those who visit the Johnson Center over the weekend will be able to view the decorated trees and some of the trees as they are being decorated.

The Johnson Center’s 2011 Christmas ornaments will also be available.

This year’s Christmas ornament was created by stained glass artist Charles Adams of Brundidge.

“The ornament is absolutely a work of art,” Metzger said. “It’s a very unique star and comes in different colors. We are extremely proud to be able to offer this work of art. The Johnson Center ornaments will make great Christmas gifts and can be displayed year around.”

“The Roots Exhibit: The Artists of Pike County” will run through Dec. 30 and at the Johnson Center regular hours, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 until 3 p.m. on Saturday.