Artists sought for first show at the Tuscarawas County Senior Center

Local seniors interested in creative arts will have the opportunity to showcase their work the week of Nov. 4-13 at the Tuscarawas County Senior Center. The first show of its kind at the facility has been named “Art Unleashed: Where Our Seniors’ Creativity Roams Free” and will feature judging for Best of Show; first, second and third place; and People’s Choice.

Elaine Booth, the center’s director of activities, said all mediums will be accepted. Some examples might be drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, sewing, woodworking, metal work, pottery and ceramics.

“There are probably other ideas,” Booth said. “The main stipulations are that the creator be 50 years or older and the art piece cannot be larger than 12 by 14 inches. We will provide tables, easels and labels. We will be extremely strict about accepting entries. They may be dropped off at the center Monday, Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nothing will be accepted after 2 p.m.”

The fee to enter the show is $25 for one or two pieces. Contestants will receive a free social membership good from Oct. 1 to Dec. 25.

Jeannine Kennedy, executive director of the Tuscarawas County Center for the Arts, will judge the Best of Show and first, second and third place. Anyone who visits the show during the week may vote for the People’s Choice. A ballot box will be available.

Tuscarawas County Senior Center Executive Director Jamie Smith said awards will be presented on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m., following an open house from 3:30-7 p.m.

“Our seniors have such tremendous value,” she said. “Many of them express themselves through art, but no one else gets to see it. This is an opportunity for those talented artists to present their work. We are so happy to present this show and hope it will become a growing annual event.”