“Morning Jam,” a Prismacolor pencil piece by Mary Northon, is displayed at a past Hermiston Art Festival. Art Walk 24, hosted by the Hermiston Downtown District, is May 11, 2024, in Main Street businesses.

HERMISTON — Professional and student artists will vie for cash prizes during Art Walk 24 on May 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Hermiston.

The art display/sale, which has assumed a variety of names over the years, has maintained the same venue arrangement for more than two decades — downtown Main Street businesses. Judy Currin-Pederson, of the Hermiston Downtown District, said the event provides exposure to both artists and downtown businesses.

“I think it’s very beneficial because people get to see different art … and it gets people into a business that they haven’t seen before,” Currin-Pederson said. “Then the next time they are shopping for something, they will know what’s available in downtown Hermiston.”

Hermiston artist Mary Corp, who has been involved with the event since the early 2000s, said it showcases professional artists from across the region. She said an important aspect of the event is having the artists on hand presenting their work.

“It makes it a very personal and unique experience,” Corp said.

Register for Art Walk 24

Professional artists can register for $25 while spaces are still available. Students in kindergarten through 12th grade may enter for free.

Cash prizes, ranging from $50-250 will be awarded to adult artists, who will be judged on their body or work. Also, five $20 awards will be presented in the student category. In addition, a People’s Choice award of $50 will be selected by those attending Art Walk 24.

Additional details and registration information are available via Facebook at bit.ly/3hQ0Ykk. Students interested in displaying their artwork can email Corp via mary.corp@oregonstate.edu. In addition, registration forms for both professionals and students are available at Lucky Endz Gifts, 239 E. Main St. For questions, call 541-289-1112.

Currin-Pederson said providing an opportunity for students to be involved in the event is important. She encourages them to display their work and invite their family and friends to the event.

“We want students to have a place to showcase their art and be proud of their art,” Currin-Pederson said. “They are our future for art.”

During Art Walk 24, Currin-Pederson encourages visitors to check out local businesses and restaurants for possible specials. In addition, she said to be sure to wander down to Two96Main at 296 E. Main St. Treats will be available from Jubilee Parlor, a mobile ice cream parlor, and Sugar Shack Cookies.