First works selected for the Ottawa County Art Trust

First works selected for the Ottawa County Art Trust

June 19, 2018 Media Contacts Below

The art has been submitted and the verdict in. At the Ottawa County Art Trust Exhibition Reception, organizers will announce which work(s) will be purchased to become part of the permanent art collection of the new Ottawa County Art Trust. The reception is on June 21 from 5:30 to 7:30PM in the County’s Administration Building (12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive). The public is welcome. 

A total of 58 entries were submitted by 32 artists who live or work in Ottawa County. Of those pieces, 47 will be on display at the Fillmore Administration Building. Former Ottawa County Judge and Professional Photographer Edward Post served as juror, selecting the first piece(s) to become part of the permanent collection. 

"Acting as the juror for the Ottawa County Art Trust may have proven more difficult than serving as a judge in the courtroom," quipped Judge Post. "There is a great deal of talent here in West Michigan."

Earlier this year, Ottawa County and the Holland Area Arts Council announced they were  joining forces to establish the Ottawa County Art Trust Exhibition. Together, the partners invited local artists to enter their Ottawa County themed works in a juried exhibition. 

“Establishing an art trust tangibly demonstrates the importance of creativity and culture to Ottawa County while preserving a legacy of assets for generations to come,” said Al Vanderberg, Ottawa County Administrator.

Those works not chosen for purchase by the Ottawa County Art Trust could still become part of the collection. Individuals and businesses can purchase art from the exhibition to donate to the Art Trust. Sponsoring a piece is a thoughtful way to show dedication to the art community or to honor a loved one, family member or mentor. Sponsored pieces will be marked with a plate, recognizing the gift. Those wishing to consider a gift may contact Shannon Felgner with Ottawa County or Mary Sundstrom of the Holland Area Arts Council.

For those who cannot attend the reception, the exhibit will also be open to the public for viewing Monday through Friday from 8AM - 5PM until August 24. Ottawa County will keep the exhibit open until 8PM on Wednesday, June 27, Wednesday, July 11, and Wednesday, August 15. 

Artists who missed this year's exhibition can look forward to the event in 2019. Ottawa leaders plan to hold the exhibition annually to grow the County’s fine art collection. The Ottawa County Art Trust will build a permanent library of artwork created by resident artists. As the collection grows, the works will be on display in various county locations.

 

        

Media Contacts:
Shannon Felgner, Communications Manager-Ottawa County
616-738-4672
Mary Sunstrom, Art Director-Holland Area Arts Council
616-396-3278