Photographers invited to enter SAAC’s Viewfinder competition

The South Arkansas Arts Center in El Dorado announces a call for entries for its upcoming annual photography competition, "The Viewfinder." The exhibit will be on display in the Merkle and Price galleries Feb. 5-26. A total of $600 in cash prizes will be awarded at the artist's reception on Friday, Feb. 21 from 5-6:30 pm.

"The Viewfinder" explores the interests and imagination of shutterbugs throughout the community and beyond. The accessibility of digital cameras has dramatically expanded the environment surrounding photography, opening the medium to practitioners from all walks of life and levels of experience.

Entries for this competition must be delivered to SAAC by Feb. 3. Limit two pieces per person with a non-refundable entry fee of $10 each for SAAC members and $15 for general public. New members are eligible for one free entry.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the Best of Show ($300), First Place ($150), Second Place ($75), Third Place ($50) and Honorable Mention ($20). Judge Steven E. Ochs, professor of art at Southern Arkansas University, will present the awards at 6 p.m. on Feb. 21.

Photographers may use any type of camera and print on any medium. Basic corrective editing in the dark room or digitally on the computer is allowed, but no graphic manipulations. Photographs must have been taken in the last five years and not previously shown at SAAC. No work done under supervision or in a classroom environment will be accepted.

Each piece must be ready for display in the gallery with a sufficient hanging method. Works must be delivered to SAAC by Feb. 3 and picked up on Feb. 27. Artists are responsible for the delivery and pickup of all works.

For more information on "The Viewfinder," sponsored by William P. Cook and Associates, PLLC, call the SAAC office at 870-862-5474 or visit the website at www. saac-arts.org. SAAC is located at 110 E. Fifth St. in El Dorado.