Art Fest is a unique exhibition exclusively showcasing Johnson County artists. Initially presented in celebration of the county's Sesquicentennial in 2005, Art Fest has continued as an annual tribute to the widely diverse talents of the many artists residing in Johnson County. The existence and success of Art Fest, as is the case with many other cultural amenities in Johnson County, is due in large part to the efforts of the late Robert G. Endres, one of the exhibit's co-founders.

Displayed each fall at the Ernie Miller Nature Center in Olathe, the juried exhibition consistently features a creative array of works including paintings, ceramics, photography and mixed media. All of the pieces on display are available for purchase and a portion of each sale benefits the nature center. There is no admission charge to the exhibit.

Art Fest 2010 will be juried by Marcus Cain, Curator of the Kansas City Jewish Museum of Contemporary Art in Overland Park. Art Fest is made possible through the generous support of Johnston, Ballweg, Modrcin, Andrews and Tuley, LC. The exhibit's Organizing Committee includes A.J. LoScalzo, Alberta McGrath, and Nancy Wallerstein.

Art Fest is open to artists currently residing in Johnson County who are 21 years of age or older. It is limited to original, wall-mounted art executed no more than two years prior to the exhibition.

The deadline for artists to submit entries for this year's exhibit is August 5. Please refer to the Call for Entries brochure for detailed information regarding the entry process.

Artists interested in being added to the notification list for future Art Fest exhibits should send an email to communityrelations@jocogov.org.