Three guys and a canvas. No, it's not about camping. It's an art canvas, but it's not about art either, at least not really.

Hobnob Theatre Company's presentation of Yasmina Reza's “Art” opens Friday at the Art Center. The play is under the direction of Casey Bowser.

While the selection seems to be a bit of a departure for Hobnob Theatre Company, which has typically focused on classical works, it's important to note that Hobnob's mission does support modern plays as well. The quality of the production was definitely up to Hobnob standards.

The well-cast male trio was expertly directed and proved more of a psychological drama than a show about a painting. “Art” is actually a probe into the ebb and flow of a 15-year-long friendship. The layer peeling begins when Serge (Greg Crawford) purchases a painting. Crawford skillfully conveyed his enthusiasm for the work of art and the high price he paid for it. That price quite possibly may have been higher than he thought it would be judging from the reaction of his best friend. His commanding stage presence and comfort level were masterful.

Marc (Tom Smithyman) was taken aback by the piece of artwork and its expense. His honesty regarding the painting was perhaps not unanticipated by Serge who was nonetheless daunted by the aggressive delivery. Smithyman nailed the pompous self- righteous side of Marc, who seemed to try to control his friends. His hurtful underlayer was also compellingly portrayed as he described a festering wound inflicted by Serge that changed the course of their friendship.

The pair welcomed their friend Yvan (Jud Michael Stewart) into the mix, who along with his own drama unwittingly propels the other two into a raw and honest explanation of their roles in the friendship. Stewart's manic and desperate Yvan was entertaining. His soliloquy about the wedding invitations and his mother revealed his neurotic tendencies and his vulnerability which made him easy prey for his wounded comrades. Initially called into the fray as an ally he quickly becomes a casualty.

The question of truth comes to the heart of this play where the viewer sits in judgment of Marc, who brutally spoke the truth, or Yvan, who gently put the happiness of his friend before his own opinion.

Clearly the show is not all black and white and the same conclusion can be drawn about honesty in friendship. “Art” paints a picture where anyone can be seen with regard to their relationships. It's a thinking person's play. Perhaps both beauty and truth are in the eyes of the beholder.

The adult language in the play might make it unsuitable for some. The show opens Friday and runs weekends through April 8. Seating is limited. The 90-minute show runs with no intermission.

WHAT: Hobnob Theatre Company Presents Yasmina Reza’s “Art”WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and April 7 and 8WHERE: The Art Center (Associated Artists of Butler) 344 S. Main St., ButlerTICKETS: $10. Seating is limited. Purchase at www.hobnobtheatre.com/tickets or by phone at 412-736-2535