The second annual Salem Mayor's Art Exhibit is currently seeking Oregon artists to enter to be a part of a permanent collection showcased in the Salem Conference Center.

The year-long exhibit begins with an artist's reception on July 12. Awards will be presented that night with one piece of art purchased for inclusion in the Center's permanent collection. Last year's selection for the permanent collection was James Mattingly's "Airlie Autumn." Most recognize Mattingly's work from the large mural he painted on the outside wall of Elsinore Theatre.
Entries for this year's exhibit must be postmarked or hand delivered by noon on April 30. A $25 application fee must be included with the entry.

For a full prospectus visit salemconferencecenter.org.

Go Downtown Salem! to host First Wednesday

The downtown merchant organization Go Downtown Salem! will take on the Salem First Wednesday program this year. Changes have been made to ease the financial burden on merchants and events will be geared towards encouraging customer participation.

The events are still in the development stage but the first one will be held on May 7.  

Artists in Action begin new season

Artists in Action held its first meeting of the year to vote for a board of directors and review the upcoming season. AiA has over 150 members and promotes visual art through participation in various art festivals and partnerships.
The season began with the Salem Wine and Food Festival in January, where artists displayed and sold their work. Other festivals and events that the group participates in include the Keizer Iris Festival, World Beat Festival, and Salem Art Fair.
The group meets on the fourth Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Blue Pepper meeting room. The first meeting had 30 members present.