May 17, 2019

Second Annual Ottawa County Art Trust Exhibition

Ottawa County and the Holland Area Arts Council invite local artists to enter their Ottawa County themed works in a juried exhibition located in the County’s Administration Building. This is the second annual exhibition to build the Ottawa County Art Trust. The Ottawa County Art Trust will build a permanent library of artwork created by resident artists.

Former Holland Area Arts Council Executive Director and professional artist Lorma Williams Freestone will serve as juror. Up to three works will be selected from the exhibition and be purchased to become part of the permanent art collection of the Ottawa County Art Trust. Individuals and businesses can also purchase art from the exhibition to donate to the Art Trust in honor of others. 

Artists must be 18 years of age or older and reside or own property or work in Ottawa County. The complete prospectus including entry deadlines, fees and more is online at miOttawa.org/ArtTrust.

The exhibit will open to the public for viewing at a reception on June 24 from 5:30 to 7:30PM and will remain installed at the Ottawa County Fillmore Administration Building until August 23. The purchase awards will be announced at the reception.

Culture and creativity are important to Ottawa County leaders. As a government organization, the County has taken what may be considered a unique position for government, forging a creativity and innovation program. Establishing an Art Trust is a very tangible way to demonstrate the importance of culture and creativity. At the same time, the trust will preserve a legacy of art for generations of residents to come.

Historically, government has taken an active role in preserving and promoting the arts. Art preservations and trusts were at one time considered a civic responsibility. Experts know that art

• stimulates business and tourism;
• cultivates imagination and creativity among young minds, enhancing academic achievement;
• fosters mental and emotional health, contributing to overall well-being; and
• creates a sense of place and a desirable quality of life.

"We know that that the Ottawa County Art Trust alone will not achieve all these benefits of art, but we do believe that the Art Trust will contribute to the vision of Ottawa County being a welcoming place. A place where everyone can belong, " said Al Vanderberg, County Administrator.

Ottawa County leaders plan to hold the exhibition annually to grow the County’s fine art collection. As the collection grows, the works will be on display in various county locations. 

A selection of works in the Ottawa County Art Trust Collection on display.