Ethelstine Banks has always had a special talent that, until now, she has kept to herself.

Banks is an artist from Waukegan, Ill., who returned to her family’s home of Demopolis in the early 1990s. She has never had her art displayed for all to see, until this week.

Every quarter, the Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital displays new art in its main hall, called “The Exhibit.” This year, Banks decided to put her art up for display.

Banks said that a few different people have told her that her art is more than good enough to have displayed to the public.

“I guess when more than two people say that it is a good idea to do something, you might as well give it a try,” Banks said.

Banks said that her mother discovered her talent when she was 2-years-old. She said that when visitors would come to the house, she would draw them.

“I guess I was just born with it,” she said.

It was not until she turned 11 that she got any of her work framed.

“I used to draw or paint, and just throw it under the bed or hide it in a closet,” Banks said. “Now that my work is on display, it makes me feel good to not be hiding my talent anymore. I love Demopolis and I’m glad to share my talent with the community.”

The hospital will hold a reception on Thursday, July 19 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., in the main hall to introduce Banks and her art.