Local artists who want to showcase their talents, while competing against other locals will have the opportunity next month in Opp.

The seventh annual Opp Cultural Arts Council’s Juried Art Show is seeking participants in the annual event held each October in conjunction with Opp Fest.

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

“Not only are we seeing more artists, but we are also seeing more interest from the general public,” she said.

The OCAC is situated right in the middle of Opp Fest activities, which is why the organization holds the juried arts show, she said.

“We think the artwork will be convenient to everything (event goers) want to see,” she said. “They can come and rest a little while and see the art.”

The show is open to all artists who wish to participate, 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. Additionally, other three-dimensional art may be accepted.

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. 8 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., 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.

Dowling said those who are unable to bring their artwork in on Oct. 8, must contact Kathy Grantham, gallery director, to arrange to bring their works before the deadlines.

All artwork accepted must remain for the duration of the show, which will be from Oct. 29 until Nov. 18.

Dowling said artwork must be picked up on Nov. 19.

For more information, call Grantham at 334-897-3293.