Photographer Charles Holton and potter Jo Ackerman will be in the spotlight at the Helen Arts & Heritage Center.

Both are the featured artists of the spring exhibition, “Shades of the Mountains,” which will be from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, March 10, at 25 Chattahoochee Strasse in downtown Helen.

Holton of Cleveland believes everyone should be passionate about something and for him, photography is his passion, according to a news release from the arts center.

During his 40-year accounting career, the great outdoors was his escape. Whether it was hiking a trail above a glacier in Alaska with his son or camping in the Smokies, he said he admits being happier and more content with a camera in hand than sitting in front of a computer.

Now, Holton believes a great photograph is one that preserves a visual image forever, the release said. His hope is the images he shares will serve as an inspiration to others to go out and enjoy the outdoors.

Ackerman of Indiana also possesses a love of the outdoors with its fields of wildflowers and forests, the release said.

Growing up with an artistic mother and builder father, Akerman was taught to be creative and hands-on. She began to draw, paint and build 3D projects at an early age. She learned principles and techniques that advanced her skills in high school.

Ackerman’s formal education plans were interrupted during her first year of college, when she met and married her husband, the release said. Later on, she ventured into ink drawing, portraits, watercolors and collage.

Finally, Ackerman fulfilled a dream of working with clay, the release said. With practice, she developed her own style and design in pottery making.

Holton and Ackerman’s work will be on display in center until May 11.

Admission to the exhibit opening and reception is free.

“Many local artists will be on hand to greet guests and we invite the community to join us in support of our many talented artisans who are indeed passionate about their work,” said Nancy Ackerman, president of the Helen Arts & Heritage Center.

Free parking is available in the rear area of the arts center.

For more information, visit www.helenarts.org or call 706-878-3933.