The Community Renewal Team’s  National Arts Program is set to open its gallery of 300 pieces of art at Capital Community College on Jan. 23 at the start of the spring semester. Local artists of all ages from Hartford and Middlesex Counties submitted their work in hopes of going home with one of seven cash prizes to be given out at an award reception at the college on Jan. 28.

 This public gallery, which the College is hosting for a second time,  is free and open to the public with works on exhibit at the Conrad L. Mallett galleries in the main lobby and on the walls of the 11th floor’s music and arts central.  The exhibit runs from Jan. 23 – Feb. 4 at Capital’s campus , open 7 a.m. – 10 p.m., M-F; and 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday. An awards ceremony and reception will be held at the college on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 1:00 p.m. Judges for this year’s artwork include: Janice La Motta, Art Director at Charter Oak Cultural Center; Anne Rice, Educator at the Wadsworth Atheneum; Ed Johnetta Miller, renowned artist and teacher; Erin Monroe, Curator at the Wadsworth Atheneum, and Andres Chapparro, artist and manager in the City of Hartford’s Cultural Affairs office.

Works of professional artists on display at CCC's Music and Arts Central, 11th floor.

First, second and third prizes will be awarded in each of the adult categories of Amateur, Intermediate and Professional. First prizes are worth $300, second prizes are $200 and third prizes are $100 each. First, second and third prizes also will be awarded in Youth (12 and under) and Teen (13-18) categories. First prize is $75, second is $50 and third is $25. An overall best of show prize of $300 also will be awarded. Each artist will receive a Certificate of Participation in the National Arts Program that promotes and sponsors community arts and exhibits around the country.

 This is an annual event and contest which is underwritten in part by the National Arts Foundation. There is no entry fee, and individuals at all levels of experience are encouraged to enter. CRT, the region’s community action agency, has been the local sponsor for 20 years.

For more information contact CRT’s Nancy Shapiro at (860) 560-5471 or by email at nancys@crtct.org.