The Mother Lode Art Association is presenting its 68th Fine Art Show and Exhibition from April 7 through April 15 in conjunction with the City of Sonora’s Art Week.

Artists to submit their work are currently being sought by the association. The postmark deadline to submit an entry is Friday, March 17. A Prospectus and Entry Form may be downloaded from their website, www.motherlodeartassociation.org or artists may pick up a copy from the Aloft Art Gallery at 105 S. Washington St., Sonora.

Proceeds from entry fees, art sales, a silent auction and raffle sales go to support art education in area schools.

Juried by renowned artists Andrea Morris and Carolyn MacPherson, the event will showcase the works of local and regional artists. Also on display will be student art selected from the Youth Art Show, artwork by members of the Watch Resources Art Guild and Jamestown Ranch, and photography from the Sonora Photo Club.

The public is welcome and admission is free. An opening reception for artists and the public will be held on Friday, April 7 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with an award presentation at 6 p.m.

Music will be provided by the Blue Oak Band and appetizers and refreshments will be available. Those attending will have an opportunity to participate in raffles and the silent auction. The Grand Prize is an original work generously donated by last year’s Best of Show winner, Sonora artist J. Conn.

The City of Sonora is celebrating Art Week from April 10 to April 16 and MLAA is a registered participant. With sponsorship from the City of Sonora and Visit Tuolumne, the association will be presenting many special events on the Sonora Opera Hall stage. An oil painting demonstration by world renowned artist Heinie Hartwig, interactive workshops, music and Plein air artists painting throughout town are only a few of the exciting events planned for Art Week.

For more information contact Linda Happel at lindaleehappel@gmail.com or 209-532-7240 or John Sharum at jgsharum@aol.com or 925-588-1417.