A cultural venue in the City of Suffolk is preparing a night for both art and music lovers and at no expense to either group.

The Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts will host an exhibit entitled “The Spirit of a Woman: A Celebration of Women in the Arts” on from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday. The Chowan University Singers and Men’s Choir will perform the same evening at 7:30 p.m.

No tickets are necessary for the art exhibit, and choir tickets are required only for seating.

“It’s a community opportunity to enjoy an evening with both art and music that is free,” SCCA Executive Director Jackie Cherry said.

The art exhibit will feature painters, sculptors, photographers and other types of artists in honor of Women’s History Month in March and International Women’s Day on March 8.

“It’s all about how a woman is inspired through the arts,” Cherry said.

Among the artists to be recognized on opening night will be Virginia Living Museum artist-in-residence and painter Gloria Coker, watercolorist Trisha Crowe and sculptor Darcy Meeker.

“The artists will be here so people can talk to them about their individual pieces and what led them to that particular art form,” Cherry said.

Later that night, Chowan University Associate Music professor and Choral Activities director will conduct the singers and men’s choir in an hour-long performance that will blend classical and contemporary music.

Cherry said it will be a “combination of work” by singers who have performed worldwide, including New York City, Ireland and Italy.

“The work itself is very diverse,” Cherry said. “The a cappella is amazing. It’ll be recognizable, wonderful music.”

Cherry said the evening is meant to be a treat for locals who want something new at no charge.

“It’ll be a nice break in the week for everybody,” Cherry said. “They’re exposed to the artists, as well as musicians. I’m hoping people will take advantage of it and enjoy it.”

For more information on either event, call 923-0003 or visit www.SuffolkCenter.org.