River Arts in Damariscotta invites artists to submit original work for the juried show “Artist’s Choice.” Deadline for dropping off work is Saturday, Sept. 11 at 4 p.m. Artists may choose works that best represent their own styles and interests for this “Artist’s Choice” juried exhibition. “Artist’s Choice” runs from Sept. 14 – Oct. 16.

River Arts is pleased to announce Simon van der Ven will be the juror for this show. Simon van der Ven’s work brings in ideas of home, family, and our relationship to nature. He uses materials such as clay, paint, and found objects to explore these subjects. Van der Ven has an undergraduate degree in printmaking with a minor in sculpture and a MFA with a concentration in ceramics and drawing. Van der Ven taught as an adjunct professor at UMA-Rockland and Unity College. He’s been a resident artist at Anderson Ranch, Watershed Center for the Ceramic Arts, and Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. His work is in the collections of the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, the Canton Museum of Fine Arts, and Harrisburg Community College. Visit Simon van der Ven’s website at www.vandervenstudios.com.

The “Artist’s Choice” show is open to all media. All work must be gallery ready and clean. Wall pieces should be wired securely with picture wire and screw eyes. No wet paint will be accepted. Artists may enter two pieces with a size limit of 26” (in any direction) including frame or one larger piece with a size limit of 48” (in any direction) including frame. There will be no exceptions to the size limits. Diptychs are allowed. Multiple piece works larger than diptychs are not allowed.

Works must be delivered in person. Entry and membership forms are available in the gallery or may be downloaded from the website: www.riverartsme.org. For members the entry fee is $15 and for non-members it is $25. All submitted works must be for sale and River Arts retains 35% commission on sold works. The accepted list will be emailed to all submitting artists by the afternoon of Wednesday, Sept. 15. Unaccepted works should be picked up promptly.

River Arts is located at 36 Elm St in Damariscotta and is open Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For inquiries call the gallery at 563-6868 or email at info@riverartsme.org.