Area artists are encouraged to participate in the fine arts division of the 2011 Mower County Fair.

This competition is open to all residents of Mower County and the surrounding area, ages 16 years and older. New artists are welcome.

Entries must be submitted Aug. 2 between 2 and 5 p.m. at the Creative Arts Building. Judging will take place Aug. 3.

No artwork will be accepted that cannot be displayed for the duration of the fair, which runs Aug. 9-14. All artwork must be picked up between 6 and 7 p.m. on Aug. 14.

Up to four original works per artist are allowed. Each piece must be labeled on the back with the title, name of artist, address and phone number.

All pictures must be framed and ready to hang with a wire support on the back.

Accepted mediums are: watercolor, acrylic, oil, drawings, relief prints and pastels. The three divisions are professional, pro-amateur and amateur. Monetary prizes will be awarded for first, second and third in each division.

For more information, go to www.mowercountyfair.com, call the Austin Area Art Center at 507-433-8451, or call William Olson, fine arts superintendent, at 507-413-2835.