Art the part: Artists wanted to capture history

The McHenry County Historical Society & Museum in Union is marking the second year of its featured exhibit "Art of the Past: Discovering History through McHenry County Artists" with a juried art show titled "This Place Matters: Historic Structures and Landscapes of McHenry County."

Artists are invited to use their creativity and ingenuity to paint or draw historically significant buildings, structures and landscapes in McHenry County.

The McHenry County Historical Society hopes this art show will foster an appreciation for history and create an awareness to preserve these historic structures for future generations. If you'd like, download the contest flyer, which includes complete entry guidelines, at mchenrycountyhistory.org.

Registration is open for artists 18 years old and older. Entries are due online at GotHistory.org by Dec. 31. The entry fee is $35 for each artwork.

Up to three works may be submitted digitally, and the work must be limited to two-dimensional paintings, drawings, or watercolors.

The entries must relate to McHenry County buildings, structures or landscapes.

The maximum overall size is 24 by 36 inches, including mat or frame (glassless or Plexiglass framing only, for safety).

The submissions will be judged by Sandra Lang, retired MCC art gallery curator.

The artists will be notified by letter regarding acceptance by Jan. 31.

Artwork must be dropped off at the museum in Union by March 4 for display and sale during the May to October museum season.

Artists may specify a reserve (minimum) price.

Half of the proceeds from the painting will be paid to the artist, with the remaining half benefiting the McHenry County Historical Society, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

The Best in Show submission will not be sold or returned to the artist but will become a permanent addition to the McHenry County Historical Society's art collection.

For information, visit GotHistory.org or call the office at (815) 923-2267.