All local and regional artists 18 and older are invited to enter the annual Auburn CityFest juried art show.
"We would like to encourage student artists from Auburn University to enter as we are always appreciative of their participation each year," said Sara Hand Custer, co-coordinator for CityFest, Auburn's free annual outdoor festival.
Artists from anywhere in Alabama and surrounding states are welcome to submit one work in any fine art medium. Many of the participants are regional artists, Custer said.
"The most common medium is painting, but we really get a variety of mediums every year," Custer said.
Custer has seen works on paper, three-dimensional works like ceramics and sculpture, mixed-media pieces and photography at the show over the years.
The Auburn Arts Association chooses the jurors for the show.
"They have ranged from art faculty at Auburn University to curators at local and regional museums to local artists," Custer said. "We've had a wide range of jurors over the year."
Wendy DesChene, associate professor in the art department, juried the show one her first years at Auburn.
"There was a significant amount of paintings and ceramics," said DesChene, who said she remembered being impressed by a carved ostrich egg, something she had never seen before.
"Everyone seemed to be having a good time," she said. "There were a lot of vendors from the surrounding areas and folk jewelry sellers."
Jewelry has been a recent addition to the array of works displayed.
"It has actually become quite popular," Custer said. "We have a lot of jewelers who exhibit and sell their work at Auburn CityFest."
CityFest opens with a preview reception of the works the evening of April 27.
"Attendees can come and get a sneak preview," said Meg Rainey, public relations specialist for Auburn Parks and Recreation. "They can see all the beautiful pieces and enjoy a great evening in the park."
Rainey has attended the art show for several years, even before she began working for Auburn CityFest.
"It's always been a great event and a great addition to CityFest," she said.
Works will be on display in the Nunn-Winston House, a historic antebellum house in Kiesel Park. The house is not original to the park, but has been made to look as though it is, Rainey said.
"This is the second year we've had it at the park," Rainey said. "We've always had amazing venues throughout the City of Auburn. We decided last year to move it out here, and it's worked out great."
Ten cash awards will be given.
"We have $1,200 in merit awards, including two $250 special awards by the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau," Custer said.
The preview reception and Saturday show are both free to the public.
"It's a great opportunity to enjoy some art in the park," Rainey said.
Entry forms and the $25 entry fee are due April 11 at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, and works must be brought to the center April 16 or 17.
For an application form and more information, visit AuburnCityFest.com.
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