Ernie Pope Art Show underway

The 31st Annual Ernie Pope Art Show is underway featuring art from area student artists. 

This is the second year the show features student art displayed in the windows of Fort Atkinson downtown businesses. 

The walkable art exhibition will remain on display through June 1, according to information supplied by the event’s organizers.  

Art can also be viewed online at 1fortart.com, according to the release.  

This year, art teacher from within the School District of Fort Atkinson and St. Joseph’s Catholic School each chose 15 students whose work was placed on display. 

Pieces were chosen for their creativity, and showcase student artists’ talent, and hard work. 

Paint, pencil, papercraft, photography, jewelry, garment making, and sculpture are among mediums represented in this year’s show. 

Sponsors of the event include: Fort Community Credit Union (FCCU), AC Business Media, and NASCO. 

Additionally, awards were funded through a dedicated fund in memory of Ernie Pope by the Fort Atkinson Community Foundation, and a recurring donation by Robert Farrell in honor of his mother, June. 

A closing ceremony and reception will be held at Barrie Park on Wednesday, June 1, at 5 p.m. 

Certificates and monetary awards will be presented to winners in seven awards categories. Winners will be selected by four local judges. The categories include:  the Ernie Pope Award, June Farrell Award, People’s Choice Award, Gold Award, Silver Award, Bronze Award, and Purchase Award.

Community members are invited to vote for the winner of the People’s Choice Award through use of the QR code hanging near each exhibit in the downtown exhibition.

About the Ernie Pope Art Show 

According to the release, the Cygnus Ernie Pope Scholastic Art Awards began 30 years ago. Pope, who worked for Johnson Hill Press, was a strong supporter of the arts. Pope believed that Fort Atkinson students had significant artistic talent and he wanted to encourage it. He approached the art teachers at the time and proposed the scholastic art awards. Pope died of cancer, but the show has continued. The awards have recently been granted by a fund set aside in Pope’s name through the Fort Atkinson Community Foundation. 

Three photos above: Examples of student art work on display as part of the Ernie Pope Art Show are found throughout the downtown area in Fort Atkinson. The show will remain on display until June 1. Chris Spangler photos. 

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