Die Künstler von Fredericksburg (DK) kicks off its 32nd year as a local, non-profit art organization this Thursday, at its meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the Gillespie County Historical Society.

“Traditionally, our first meeting of the year is to review the previous year’s activities, consider upcoming opportunities to share art in the community, and, of course, renew dues,” said Suzanne Mc-Comack, DK president.

The group meets the first Thursday of each month January through June, with July and August off, resuming meetings September through November. December’s meeting is the group’s holiday party.

DK’s goal is to support and promote visual arts in Fredericksburg and the surrounding Texas Hill Country. Local artists of every level of skill and experience are invited to participate in developing their art practice and exploring opportunities to exhibit their works, according to a spokesperson.

Additionally, DK helps support Gillespie County schools’ art programs.

Annual dues are $30, which includes access to the group’s library of more than 250 art instruction DVDs, participation in the annual November show and sale, and reduced rates at club-sponsored workshops.

Most DK meetings feature a live demonstration by a local, professional artist sharing his/her techniques and tips.

Attendance to meetings is free, and non-members are encouraged to sample the organization’s outreach to the arts community.

“Anyone interested in making art, learning about art or just appreciating art is welcome to come,” McComack said.

Gillespie County Historical Society is located at 312 W. San Antonio St. Although the meeting begins at 6:30 p.m., the doors generally open at 6 p.m. for fellowship.

For more information about DK, including a membership application, visit dkfredericksburg.org.