HAMPTON - An artist herself, Lynn Choquette has taken on the challenge of opening an art gallery of her own right here in town.

The Blue Granite Gallery, which opened in August, features many different kinds of art mediums from several local artists. These local artists include Dan Britt, Ruth Seidel and Peter Bettencourt. Mediums range from watercolor to oils paintings and photography.

The gallery also carries an array of unique pottery from artists such as Trevor Line, who is currently displaying a collection whimsical of mugs with three-dimentional faces on them.

Some unframed prints are also available in the gallery, such as prints of ships from well known artist John Kendall, although most of the featured artwork is original.

Choquette also displays some of her own work in the gallery. She is currently working on hand painted furniture for children, such as chairs and rockers, which are detailed with characters and names.

"Since we are close to the coast, I'd like to get more marine life art," Choquette noted. She would also like to have some smaller gift items that are more affordable for everyone. In addition, she is hoping to carry some Christmas items such as ornaments or note cards.

The Blue Granite Gallery offers classes and workshops on a variety of subjects. Recent classes included introduction to photography and beginning stenciling. Children and adult craft classes, advanced photography and watercolor workshops and more will also be available. Ideas for workshops are also welcome. Tables for classes are set up in the center of the spacious gallery. Choquette will be working on a list of upcoming classes, and interested people are encouraged to call for more information.

Having taken some classes in the area, Choquette got to know other area artists and make contacts. Choquette added that she had never had a gallery before and it gives her a place to do her own artwork.

The Blue Granite Gallery is located at 852 Lafayette Road in Hampton, across from Newicks and behind Photoworld. Call the gallery 926-1815, or fax 929-4033.