Union County employees and their families invited to exhibit artwork

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Since 2002, employees of the County of Union and family members have participated in a unique program that gives them the opportunity to display their artistic creations. In its ongoing effort to recognize and encourage creative and artistic accomplishment, the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders, in partnership with The National Arts Program, is pleased to announce the thirteenth annual exhibition of artwork by County of Union workers and their families.

"What a pleasure it is to see the outstanding artwork done by Union County employees and family members," said Freeholder Bette Jane Kowalski, liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Programs Advisory Board. "Whether they are new artists or people who have exhibited before, the participants display a wide variety of work that always impresses with its quality."

Entries will be accepted in the categories of painting, photography, artworks on paper, sculpture and crafts. Recognized artists and art professionals will serve as judges, selecting entrants for cash awards and honorable mention in the exhibition's five artistic classifications: amateur (little or no experience); intermediate (some experience, art students); professional (serious art training or employed in an art related job); teens 13 to 18 years old; and youth age 12 and younger.

"We are happy to extend the invitation to enter the show to Union County program volunteers, retired Union County employees, and their families," said Freeholder Chairman Mohamed S. Jalloh. "We share the goal of The National Arts Program® to reach as many people as possible of all ages, offering them a chance to display their artistic talents in a public exhibition."

In the adult classifications, each first-place winner will receive $300; second place will receive $200 each; and third place; $100 each. There is one $300 prize for Best in Show. In each youth classification, $75 will go to first-place winners; $50 to second place; and $25 to third place. The prizes are provided by The National Arts Program.

With 82 exhibitions held within 38 states, The National Arts Program displays around 15,000 pieces of visual art each year, demonstrating to the general public a human dimension of employees previously hidden, making it a vital part of the local cultural community. The National Arts Program allows artists to upload their artwork, free of charge, to their online Interactive Gallery.

To learn more about the program and see photos from past exhibits, or for Union County employees to register online, visithttp://www.nationalartsprogram.org/venues/union-county. Early registration is encouraged.

Registration for the art exhibit is required by April 16. To request a registration form and further information, contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, 633 Pearl St., Elizabeth, NJ 07202. Telephone: 908-558-2550 or email:culturalinfo@ucnj.org. NJ relay users call 711.