Phoenix Public Library, Phoenix, AZ. -- March 18, 2009 -- Burton Barr Central Library will host an exhibit of ceramic art by Halldor Hjalmarson titled, "Surface Embellishment," April 3 - 29 at the library's @Central Gallery, 1221 N. Central Ave.

A free artist reception, hosted by the Friends of the Phoenix Public Library, will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, April 3 during the First Friday art walk.

Hjalmarson has created both functional and decorative ceramic pieces for more than 36 years. His work is distinctive in its creative surface embellishment and depiction of Sonoran Desert animal and plant life. Hjalmarson is a native of Arizona and holds a Master of Arts in Art Education from Arizona State University. His work is included in numerous private and public collections, including the Ceramic Research Center at ASU, the City of Phoenix and Chase Bank.

Phoenix Public Library is a system of 14 branch libraries and the Burton Barr Central Library. For more information, call 602-262-4636 or visit phoenixpubliclibrary.org.