BY FRAN WATSON

Welcome to the Cincinnati art scene. Three new galleries debuted recently, specializing in hard-to-find fields of art. GALLERY SCULPTURA at 40 E. Seventh St. (333-0222), brings fine sculpture and art photographers from around the world, promising to draw collectors from a wide area. Two grand opening receptions are scheduled June 4, 5-8 p.m., and June 5, 3-8 p.m. ... TILLIER WESLEY, award-winning American Indian artist, kicked off the new GILLAN GALLERY, 1206 Main St. (721-5775), earlier this month. The gallery will become part of the Final Friday Over-the-Rhine art trek, which never fails to offer something different. Their stock in trade will include originals, lithographs, serigraphs, glicées, limited-edition prints, pottery, weavings, etc. Sounds like a real browser. ... "The happiest place on Hyde Park Square" is the motto of the SALLY HUSS GALLERY, featuring (what else?) art by Sally Huss, a California artist who does wallpaper, greeting cards, prints, apparel and more. She has stores across the country and around the world. Drop by and smile a little. 321-5750.

Hurry! You can still make the the first lecture of the Cincinnati Art Museum's "Artalk: Art of the Postmodern Era" tonight at 7:30 by IRVING SANDLER. His explanation of art from the 1960s through early 1990s will be followed by artists MEL CHIN, May 27, JOEL OTTERSON, June 10, and ALAN RATH, June 24. 721-0300. While you're calling the Art Museum, put in your reservation for three blockbuster workshops in July featuring local experts: KATHERINE HURLEY (pastels), SUSAN SWINAND (watercolors) and CAROLYN WHITESEL (drawing). These artists are truly tops in their fields, guaranteed to bring your medium up a notch.

Kentucky: Land of Beauty is the appropriate title for GARY AKERS' new book of paintings available now at the Gary-Lynn Galleries in Union, Ky. Akers, acknowledged master of rural realism, is now sharing his gallery with daughter, ASHLEY, as she follows her famous father's footsteps. 606-384-3464

Ever thought of becoming a docent to help museum visitors understand and enjoy works of art? The TAFT MUSEUM is seeking new volunteers for its docent program. Learn more by attending a box lunch on May 26 at 10:30 a.m. No previous educational requirements: The two-year program will train you to work with the Taft's in-school program and more. Information and registration: Abby Schwartz, 241-0343, ext. 16.

E-mail Fran Watson

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