JOSEPH — The annual Youth Arts Festival, a celebration of creativity and youth talent in Wallowa County, is April 12-21, and young musicians are needed to lend live music to the event.

Volunteers are also needed.

The festival held at the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture will showcase a variety of artwork from local youth artists, provide hands-on activities, and feature live musical performances by young performers from the area.

Calling performers

The festival will feature a Youth Open Mic Performance on Saturday, April 12, from 1-3 p.m.

Whether solo or with friends, young musicians are invited to perform music, spoken word, comedy, dance or any other form of creative performance. No experience required.

Sign-ups for open mic will begin at noon on April 12 at the Josephy Center on a first come, first served basis Spots are limited.

Volunteers needed

Volunteers are needed to help sort and hang artwork on April 9 and 10. Anyone available to volunteer is asked to contact Dionne Vali at programs@josephy.org or call 541-432-0505 Ext. 2.

History

The festival, which was first initiated in 1989 by local photographer Doris Woempner, has become a tradition in the Wallowa Valley. Over the years, the event has been shaped by community supporters including Joan Madsen, Leah Johnson, Will Roundy and Maria Weer.

The Wallowa Valley Arts Council sponsors this annual event and “applauds the many volunteers who work tirelessly to make it all possible,” according to a press release. “With over 200 entries last year, the Youth Arts Festival serves as a powerful testament to the incredible creativity and spirit of our community’s young artists.”

The festival will include awards ribbons, a variety of engaging activities and opportunities for everyone to get involved.

Event details

Art will be dropped off April 8 from 2-4 p.m.

The opening reception is Saturday, April 12, from noon to 4 p.m.

Artwork can be picked up Monday, April 21, from 2-4 p.m.

For more information, visit josephy.org.