Young up-and-coming local artists are encouraged to submit original works for the annual Student Exhibition sponsored by the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council and the Oxford Artists’ Guild.

The exhibition is hosted at the Powerhouse and students in preschool through high school who are residents of Oxford or Lafayette County or attend local schools are eligible to submit one piece of their artwork.

“This show has been an ongoing partnership with the Oxford Artist Guild,” Wayne Andrews, YAC executive director, said. “It is a great opportunity for students to show their work in a community setting. We hope that it provides both a positive experience by having students involved in a community program and as the focus of the Art Crawl.”

The exhibition also has been beneficial to students who have submitted artwork in the past.

“Several students have sold work at the event, which I think is positive. I think it gives students a chance to explore their passion for art and connect them to community groups such as the Arts Guild if they want to pursue art as a career or as a hobby,” Andrews said. “Art is one of those things we can do our entire lives. We continue to grow the more we are proactive and we can pick up new skills. Someone that starts out as a painter can learn other skills and techniques.”

The works must be framed and ready to hang with sturdy hooks. Studio- and gallery-style canvases do not have to be framed, but must have sturdy wire attached for hanging.

Artwork will be judged based on aged categories with prizes being awarded based upon originality.

Deadline for submission is Friday with the exhibition running through April 4. A reception and announcement of awards will be March 22 from 6-8 p.m. at the Powerhouse in conjunction with the monthly Art Crawl.

Andrews said awards range from ribbons to gift certificates for the students.

For more information, call the Powerhouse at 662-236-6429 and visit www.oxfordarts.com for an entry form.