Art contest set in Big Sandy

Young artists throughout the area have a chance to enter their work into a student art contest that will culminate in an award ceremony Thursday, June 29, Big Sandy Cultural Fund Director Doug Giebel said in a press release.

“We’re creating a unique resource for the community,” Giebel said in the release. “The students’ artwork will be on exhibit throughout the summer for residents and visitors to enjoy.”

The “Art Smart Student Art Contest” is sponsored by the Big Sandy Cultural Fund and will be supervised by Giebel and Jessica Jaramillo, art teacher in the Big Sandy school system.

Information provided by Giebel says the fund exists “to provide cultural programs, materials and assistance” to families, students and organizations in Big Sandy and adjacent communities.”

The art will be displayed at the Big Sandy Art Center, housed in the former S&J grocery store in downtown Big Sandy on U.S. Highway 87.

Giebel said in the release that the contest is open to area elementary, middle and high school students including students who are homeschooled.

The elementary school artist who wins first prize will receive $25, while first prize for artists grades 7-12 will be $50. Artists do not have to pay a fee to enter the contest.

All work must be done at the Art Center, where art supplies will be provided or artists can bring their own. The Art Center is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. The center can be open at other hours if arrangements are made.

Artists can chose a free book for each day they come to the center to work on their project.  

The release says the artists can submit works in more than one medium but can enter no more than three pieces.

Awards will be presented in a ceremony at the center July 29 at 2 p.m.

For more information, people can contact Giebel at 378-2430.