Calling all artists!

The sixth annual Opp Cultural Arts Council Opp Fest Juried Art Exhibit is seeking participants in the annual event, held each October in conjunction with Opp Fest.

OCAC Vice President Virginia Dowling said the event has grown each year.

“This is our sixth year with the juried art show and each year it has grown,” she said. “Not only are we seeing more artists, but we are also seeing more interest from the general public.”

Dowling said the organization anticipates a large crowd to see the artwork since their new location is right in the midst of all things Opp Fest.

“Because it is in conjunction with Opp Fest and the cultural arts center is right in the center of everything going on, (event goers) can come in to see the artwork,” she said. “We think the artwork will be convenient to everything they want to see. They can come and rest a little while and see the art.”

President Toby Hollinghead said the show is open to all artists who wish to participate.

“It’s an opportunity for everyone to be able to participate in a juried show,” she said. “We encourage everyone to participate in the juried show. We always get a lot of recognition.”

Dowling said there are eight categories from which participants can choose, and they include oil, acrylic, water color, mixed media, pastel, charcoal or pencil, wood carvings, sculpture, gourds or pottery and photography.

Dowling said each participant may enter up to three pieces per artist.

The cost to enter the show is $25 for OCAC members and $50 for non-members, but Dowling said those who are not members will become members with the fee.

There are some stipulations, Dowling said.

“All art work must be framed or gallery wrapped,” she said. “All framed paper artwork must be under glass.”

In addition, Dowling said all artwork must be original and cannot have previously been entered into an OCAC contest.

Dowling said the organization will award a first, second and third place in each category, as well as an honorable mention and a best in show.

Sales of artwork are also encouraged, but the OCAC will receive a 30 percent commission.

Deadline to submit work is Oct. 10, and those interested may pick up an application at the OCAC on North Main Street Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.