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STEUBENVILLE -- The exhibit presented by the Steubenville Art Association is returning to a familiar spot this year.
Youngstown State University Steubenville has invited the organization to present its 77th annual exhibit at the school, officials said.
Previously known as the spring exhibit, this year's show will be held this month. Since it was founded in 1946, the SAA has presented this professional art show every year except for the two COVID-19 years and 2025, when its longtime venue was lost with the closing of Eastern Gateway Community College.
Artists are excited about the exhibit's return and organization officials said this will be the best art show they have presented. The grand opening is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 17 at the Sunset Boulevard campus of YSU Steubenville. Everyone is invited to attend.
The association presents fun art shows, themed shows and children's art shows, but this one is considered its professional art show. Two experienced judges will determine the award winners, including one best of show, six merit awards and six honorable mention awards. The association also will have special awards sponsored by families to honor the memories of loved ones.
The show normally attracts between 150 and 200 paintings or other art pieces and between 50 and 60 artists. It is open to anyone 18 and older, whether or not they are a member of the association. The prospectus can be viewed and downloaded from the art association's Facebook page.
Art will be received at the college from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 15. Judging will begin at 2 p.m.
Winners will be announced for the first time at the grand opening. Each winner will be honored for their work. The audience will have a chance to vote for their favorite artist through the People's Choice Award. Visitors will be encouraged to leave a note for any artist if they want to comment on the work.
SAA artists said they were grateful to Youngstown State University Steubenville for the opportunity. They also said they were grateful to the Ohio Arts Council for its sponsorship during the past few years.
Jim and JoAnn Watson have managed the show for more than 20 years, keeping it alive for everyone to enjoy, organizers said.