By JAMES BELL & CRISTINA JANNEY
Hays Post
Although the Hays Arts Council Spring Art Walk was canceled this year because of COVID-19, the Smoky Hill Art Exhibition that anchors that event is set to open Monday.
This is the 51st year for the exhibition, which is the longest continuous juried art exhibition in the state. The exhibit will run through Aug. 14.
There are 54 pieces in this year's exhibition.
Because of social distancing concerns, the HAC will not be hosting an opening reception for the exhibition or the summer art walk, said Brenda Meder, HAC executive director.
"For eight weeks, people can come in and see this fabulous art exhibit of wonderful contemporary works," Meder said, "some of it in a traditional format, some of it more conceptual and less representational."
The exhibit includes a variety of media, including sculptures, ceramics, metals, metal jewelry pieces, wood carving, print making and photography.
The exhibit even features an assemblage sculpture, which includes a 388-pound cast-iron zucchini squash, Meder said.
"We have some really neat things in here — some innovative things," she said, "and some very beautiful, stunning traditional paintings. It really covers it all. There is something in here for everyone."
She said the exhibit is suitable for all ages, and she encouraged parents or grandparents to bring children to the HAC to see the show.
"It is just that delightful exposure," Meder said. "If someone is intrigued enough, they are going to stand there and study that one a little longer and maybe chuckle or ask, 'Why is this in here?' or 'Is this really art?' or 'Gosh, that's beautiful.'
"It covers the gamut, and not everything appeals to everyone, but I guarantee you this year in the Smoky, there isn't anyone that I can imagine who can't come in and find something that truly speaks to them."
This year's juror, Paul Allen, an art instructor for 37 years, will distribute $2,750 in cash prizes. Allen's own work has been exhibited throughout the United States and Great Britain. He was a partner in the development and design of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art and serves as a member of its aquisitions committee.
"The artists were so happy with everything closed down and other exhibits being completely canceled," Meder said.
There is never a charge to visit the gallery, which is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
Meder said the gallery is an open, comfortable space in which visitors can social distance.
