New to The Falls neighborhood: Its own art district.

Organizers are starting an art mecca in the warehouse area just north of The Falls shopping center.

The Falls Art District will be in an area from Southwest 129th to 132nd streets, from Southwest 87th to 89th avenues.

There will be an Open Studio Night from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday to introduce the public to The Falls artists, their art and their work areas.

``There's been a lot of enthusiasm,'' said organizer Puchi Noriega. There's a need for The Falls Art District ``because there is nothing cultural at this end of town,'' added Noriega who also holds classes at her studio.

``I think there are a lot of people who are thirsty for this.''

Some eight artists have committed to opening their studios to the public Friday, she said.

``Everyone has pulled together to help,'' she added.

Noriega is one of them: She is a painter and sculptor.

Right now she's concentrating on painting flowers. In the past, she has painted portraits of people.

The nonprofit Ceramic League of Miami that has more than 100 members also has committed to opening a gallery in The Falls Art District and having a presentation on Friday.

Music students from Coral Reef High School will perform during the open house.

There will be a shuttle to take people around to the various studios.

People can get the shuttle at 8905 SW 126th St., Noriega said.

Other South Miami-Dade communities are trying to bring an art scene to their areas.

Last month, several other gallery owners and artists hosted Homestead's first Gallery Walk on Krome Avenue, the city's historic Main Street.

It was organized by the nonprofit Homestead Main Street to help energize the downtown and encourage people to see the area's economic development and historic preservation.

And art lovers did come.

More than 150 browsed during the free three-hour event, checking out displays that ranged from student artwork at Spellbound Book Store to an exhibit of toys dating to the 1930s at the Historic Town Hall Museum.

Noriega is also hoping for a crowd at The Falls' Open Studio Night.

For more information, call 786-251-7974.

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