News

by Melissa Oyer, Valley Press

Sanders County Arts Council began their spring "Art on the Walls" exhibit at Clark Fork Valley Hospital Wednesday April 1. An opening reception was held from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the hospital lobby. The public was welcomed to come visit with one another and see interesting pieces of art painted by Sanders County artists.

Earl Main, a retired Trout Creek resident, had several pieces displayed in the show.

"Some of his pieces are just out of the ordinary," Jered Littlefield said. "His collection is very diverse, but very beautiful."

Littlefield is one of the art hangers who spend time tediously placing each painting on the wall where it will be hung for the show.

The exhibit will stay displayed in the hospital lobby for three months. Patrons who purchase the art will pick it up at the conclusion of the show.

The proceeds from the sale of the paintings get divided between the artists, the Arts Council and the hospital gift shop, who helps oversee the sale of the paintings during the duration of the show.

Charlie Gardner was just one of the many people glancing at the art.

They're very animated," Gardner said. "It's almost like they're lit from within. I'm impressed."

"Many people said this was the best show in years," Joy Nelson said. "The show serves the community in so many ways."

It offers something for friends and families to enjoy while waiting for patients at the hospital. It also serves as an outlet for patients of the hospital to come out of their rooms and enjoy looking at.

AS guests leave the gallery halls, a guest book is provided for folks to leave comments and questions, etc. There is also a voting ballot for a 'People's Choice" award. The recipient of this award has their art displayed on the front cover of the newt show's brochure.

If there are artists interested in having their work included in these shows, they should contact the Sanders County Arts Council.