By Carol McCracken (Post # 406)

The city’s Fourth Annual Art Exhibit of City Employees and their Families began its two week run this morning at city hall. The show which is open to public school employees, public library employees as well as city hall staff members has attracted 130 entries, said the event organizer, Karen Seymour.

“It’s like our very own Oscars,” said Seymour laughing earlier today. The winners in the show were selected yesterday and will be announced this evening at an artists’ reception and awards ceremony which begins at 6:30 pm. in the State of Maine room at city hall. There are five classes; three for adults and two for children. First, second and third place awards will be presented in all categories. A best of show award will be presented as well. A total of $2,400 in award money will be presented said Seymour who is a recreation supervisor with the city’s recreation and facilities management department. The judges are: David Marshall, artist, Bryony Brett, stained glass artist and Carol Schiller, photographer.

The art show is sponsored by the National Arts Program. It’s designed to give artists at all levels of skill an opportunity to exhibit their work in a professonal manner and compete for cash prizes. That is where the $2,400 in award money comes from. In addition, this year, the Program has designated an additional $475. to pay for refreshments and extras needed to help mount the show. None of the money used for this show is city money, said Seymour. “It’s all at very minimal cost to the city of Portland,” she said.

The art show runs from Friday, March 5th until Friday, Marcy 19th from 8 am to 4:30 pm – Monday-Friday.

(editor’s note: The above oil painting is: “Tranquill Dawn” by Amy Montefuso. It’s in the amateur section on the first floor at city hall.)