JOSEPH — It is time again for the annual Wallowa Valley Youth Arts Festival sponsored by the Wallowa Valley Arts Council. This festival was first held in 1989, initiated by local photographer Doris Woempner.

For more than three decades, the young artists of the Wallowa Valley have been given an opportunity to present and display their artistic creations in this organized, adjudicated exhibition.

This year the exhibition will run April 6-22 at the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, 403 N. Main St.

This vibrant annual festival and exhibition celebrates the creativity and talent of the county’s young artists from kindergarten through grade 12. Notably, this all-inclusive exhibit, typically featuring 300 or more pieces, is one of the largest exhibitions held at the Josephy Center each year.

Opening Reception

The public is invited to the opening reception of this highly anticipated exhibition on Saturday, April 6 at the Josephy Center. The unveiling of the exhibit begins at noon, and the open house continues through 4 p.m.

Hands-on art activities will be available for everyone to enjoy. The Josephy Center is currently searching for young musicians to perform during this event as well. This event is free; donations are welcome.

Celebrating young artists

Young artists of Wallowa County from kindergarten through grade 12 will present works in a variety of media — painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, collage, three-dimensional woodworking, printmaking, mixed media, sculpture, hand-built items, calligraphy, fabric art, metal works and glass.

All works will be judged within their categories and ribbons will be awarded for each: Special Needs; Kindergarten-grade 1; grades 2-3; grades 4-6; junior high and high school.

Special all-show recognition will be given to the winners of the People’s Choice and Director’s Choice awards.

Exhibiting artists are encouraged (but not required) to make their work available for sale. One hundred percent of each sale goes directly to the artist.

A call to young musicians

Young musicians who would like to perform during the opening reception of the exhibition on April 6 are encouraged to contact Arianna Olsen at the Josephy Center.

Call for volunteers

Volunteers are needed to help receive and hang/display the artwork; no experience is needed. If you are able and willing, contact Olsen at the Josephy Center by emailing exhibits@josephy.org or calling 541-432-0505, extension 2.