Ashley Hudson, special events manager, hangs “Breath of Beauty” by Avery Hayes in the “Arts and Rec” display at the Murphy Activity Center. The gallery is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and is closed on Sunday. Photo Bob Wieland/Murphy Monitor

Seven artists already have their works hanging in the Murphy Activity Center, and the Parks & Recreation Department is seeking new submissions for the fall show.

The three-month rotating exhibit allows artists to display their works and price them for sale, if they wish. 

Prices of the 17 works now hanging range from $125 to $600.

Special Events Manager Ashley Hudson said the “Arts and Rec” gallery has attracted visitors who heard about the exhibit. But, she said, the city would like to do more to promote it.

“I’m hoping we can have some sort of small event for the artists to have a moment and bring them some exposure,” Hudson said. “It’s in the works.”

The first works went on display in June and will be replaced in September for the fall show, she said. The city is currently accepting works for consideration.

“All visual art mediums are welcome, including — but not limited to — painting, drawing, photography, mixed media, digital art (printed), fiber art and collage,” the rules specify.

Hudson said submissions must be two-dimensional and no more than 24 inches by 36 inches. Canvasses do not need to be framed, but all other works must be mounted in a plain black frame. 

Each artist may submit up to three pieces per exhibition cycle and all works are juried for display.

According to the rules, “Artwork will be evaluated based on artistic quality, creativity, craftsmanship, originality and suitability for display in a public facility.”

The art is hung on the right wall of the main entry hallway to the activity center, 201 N. Murphy Road. But there is plenty of space on the opposite wall or inside the large meeting room.

The artists don’t have to be from Murphy, she added.

“A lot of people either live in Murphy or work around here, but we opened it up to everybody,” Hudson said.

In announcing the program, the city said, “This rotating gallery is designed to showcase local talent and celebrate creativity within our community.”

The submission rules are available at: https://bit.ly/4aY0P6O.

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