(Photo by Amy Quail) Arts on Grand Director Martin Arthur stands in the foyer where the new light fixture will be installed. [Order this photo]

The Spencer Area Arts Council and Arts on Grand are currently holding a contest for area artists to design a new light fixture for the front foyer of Arts on Grand in Spencer. The winning design will receive a $3,500 prize. The contest is open to all artists who are members of Arts on Grand, artists' gatherings, Artisan Road Trip, and/ or ArtsLIVE.

Martin Arthur, director of Arts on Grand, explains that instead of going to just one person for the design, the contest will give all artists a chance to design the light fixture.

"The contest will enable us to get the best design and hopefully increase interest in the art center and help us support local artists, which is our main mission." said Arthur.

All designs will be exhibited at Arts on Grand from July 5-11 and at Backyard Bach & Blues on July 12. A people's choice vote will be cast at the Backyard Bach & Blues to assist the selection committee in their decision.

The winning entry will be announced sometime in mid-to-late July and will be installed before the Grand Meander in December.

Arthur thinks the contest will generate a large response and hopes to find a design that people will notice and appreciate as they walk into the gallery. He asks that all interested artists come into Arts on Grand and check out the space so that they will better be able to design a light fixture with the right size and look for the foyer.

To apply, visit the Arts on Grand web site at www.artsongrand.com or apply in person at Arts on Grand 408 N. Grand Ave. in Spencer. Applications must include a 24" x 36" copy of the design on a mat or foam core. The deadline for entry is July 1, 2008. All written and design materials submitted will become property of the Spencer Area Arts Council.

* For more information, contact Martin Arthur at 262-4307.