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Bayou City Art Festival Sponsors Emerging Artist Program for High School Students

HOUSTON, Dec. 22, 2005 – To support emerging artists in Houston-area high schools, the Art Colony Association invites area high school students to submit proposals for the third annual Emerging Artist Program. Selected applicants will display their original art creations at the nationally recognized and award-winning Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park, March 24-26, 2006.

“The Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park Emerging Artist Program provides an exceptional opportunity for emerging artists to exhibit their work in a professional venue, interact with successful professional artists, and experience the professional jury process,” said Blaine Adams, program chairperson.

Program requirements are online at http://www.bayoucityartfestival.com. Written proposals should be mailed to: Art Colony Association, P.O. Box 66650, Houston, TX, 77266-6650. Deadline for submission is Jan. 27, with notification of acceptance by Feb. 3.

The Emerging Artist Program offers students the challenge of working and thinking about contemporary issues while providing other vital support such as: a venue for professional exhibit; exposure to art collectors, gallery owners, and potential employers; exposure to artists who regularly sell their work at fine art festivals; and, an opportunity for schools to promote their art programs.

2005 Entry

Participants will receive the following: designated installation area within the festival grounds; one artist badge, two complimentary festival tickets, and a commemorative festival shirt; acknowledgment in the festival program; and, a written assessment/critique by the Bayou City Art Festival’s professional on-site jurors, including representatives from the Museum of Fine Arts – Houston, Lawndale Art Center, Art League of Houston, and DiverseWorks.

Awards will be presented for first, second, and third place as well as a Patrons’ Pick. The award ceremony will be on March 26 at 12 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Council of Houston/ Harris County (CACHH) performance stage. Winners will receive both an award ribbon and a cash award.

Cost of materials should not exceed $100; group participation is encouraged. Installations must withstand inclement weather or have proper covering in case of wind or rain and cannot be attached to park trees or disturb the park’s natural surroundings.

Selected applicants must install their original works between noon on March 22, and 9 p.m. on March 23. Installations must be removed from the park by March 27.

City of Houston, METRO, Michelob Light, KPRC-TV and Smooth Jazz, are the Festival sponsors. The Festival is funded in part by grants from the City of Houston through the Cultural Arts Council of Houston/Harris County.

For further information, please contact the Art Colony Association at 713.521.0133 or by e-mail at mailto:bayoucityartfest@aol.com.