The Heart of Dixie Gourd Patch invites all local residents to participate in the first-ever gourd competition in Opp.

President Anita Ellis said there is only one other gourd show in the state in Cullman.

The local show will be held Sun., Feb. 20, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. at Anita’s Home Gallery on Ellis Road.

Members of the patch and gourd artists from around South Alabama will showcase their gourd art creations, as well as creations by award-winning artist, Terri Camp.

Ellis said they also have several members doing art to exhibit their skills.

The competition will feature four categories and entrants may enter up to three categories and only one gourd per category.

Categories include:

• Painted only.

• Using two or more techniques.

• Anything goes. Participants can tie in several different types of gourds or any kind of media in this category.

• Spring theme. This can be anything portraying spring.

Deadline to enter is Feb. 17, and the artwork needs to be delivered to Anita’s Home Gallery.

There is no cost.

For more information, call Ellis at 493-7166 or Camp at 493-9871.