The 2013 exhibition series in the Grand Galleries kicks off with “Animals in Clay,” a group show curated by Evan Hobart that opens Saturday, Feb. 2, at the Grand Theatre Center for the Arts.

The exhibit at 715 Central Ave. features more than 20 contemporary works by five Northern California ceramics artists that explore themes centered on animals.

Hobart, 30, is an artist and art teacher from Marin who has shown his work professionally since 2002 and has been sculpting for nearly 18 years.

“Part of being an artist for me is spreading my passion and knowledge of ceramics and sculpture as a teacher,” Hobart said.

He developed a passion for incorporating the environment into his art during his time among the redwoods at California State University, Humboldt.

As curator, Hobart chose artists for “Animals in Clay” who also draw inspiration from nature.

Other exhibitors are Bill Abright, Maile Iwanaga, Monica Van den Dool and Wesley Wright. Hobart described their styles as ranging from lighthearted to somber.

His own work, he said, explores the overlap of nature with humanity.

Hobart will speak about the exhibit during a gallery talk from noon to 2 p.m. Feb 16, a Saturday.

The exhibition runs through March 9. All events are free and open to the public.

•Contact Glenn Moore at 830 4252 or gmoore@tracypress.com