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Friday, October 30, 2026Oct 30

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Art for everyone: Works in Dalton couple’s gallery are priced to sell

Dave, left, and Pauli Aft in front of artist Laura Willett's "Searching for Nirvana" at Dave & Pauli's Art Emporium in Dalton.
Dave, left, and Pauli Aft in front of artist Laura Willett's "Searching for Nirvana" at Dave & Pauli's Art Emporium in Dalton. Dave, left, and Pauli Aft in front of artist Laura Willett's "Searching for Nirvana" at Dave & Pauli's Art Emporium in Dalton.

When they opened their art gallery in the historic Ponder Paints building in downtown Dalton, Ga., Dave and Pauli Aft had a goal that may sound nuts.

They wanted to showcase original art by excellent artists but priced inexpensively enough that someone could buy it even if they’re earning a modest salary as a waitress, store clerk or teacher’s aide.

“We have some paintings that are priced at $85,” says Dave Aft, an artist who works full-time as president of the Community Foundation of Northwest Georgia, which uses donations to fund a wide range of charities in the region.

If you go

* What: Paintings by Lorri Kelly and others * Where: Dave and Pauli’s Art Emporium, 218 Hamilton St., Dalton, Ga. * Hours: Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday; 1-6 p.m. Sunday; and by appointment * Information: 706-313-9518 or daveandpaulis.com