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NATCHEZ—On Friday, Ruthie Conner Coy will host a special fundraising art show at her historic Bontura on Broadway Street from 1 to 5 p.m. The artist will be Natchez native and classmate Robert Kuehnle, who writes and paints under the pen name R.J. Lee.

The event is free, and refreshments will be served throughout the afternoon. It is not necessary to make reservations to attend.

Kuehnle will display 35 of his artworks for viewing and possible purchase. His medium is acrylic and mixed media on framed corkboard; there will be a variety of sizes and affordable prices. Proceeds will go to the PHA, a tax-deductible organization that helps with the upkeep of Stanton Hall and Longwood and other obligations. Most recently, Kuehnle auctioned off his painting, ROANE BYRNES’ MAGIC BIRD, at the Save the Hall Ball on March 2.

Checks and cash will facilitate purchases. Kuehnle also intends to donate some of the proceeds to the Stewpot.

“I am indebted to my childhood friend, Ruthie Coy, for allowing me to use Bontura as a venue,” Kuehnle said. “It also pleases me to be able to give back to my hometown of Natchez in this manner. Growing up in this unique city has inspired my writing and painting. I hope to see and catch up with many friends and family members on Friday afternoon.”