By +Scott Leffler 
scott.leffler@eastniagarapost.com

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ART247 will hold its first show beginning Feb. 20 -- a Black and White Exhibition. The newly rebranded art studio is looking for submissions for the show.

"Market Street Art Studios has made a black and white exhibit an annual occurrence," said ART247 owner Heather Grimmer. "We wanted to continue that through with ART247, both in homage to the incredible work that Art (Hilger) and Sally (Bisher) have done, and because it's a great theme for the winter doldrums -- being able to make something beautiful out of shades of gray."
Artists may submit up to three entries for inclusion in the six-week show. Entries are due by Feb. 6 and should include two dimensional and/or three dimensional work done in black and/or white with gray scale acceptable. Photography in any form is not included in this exhibition.
"To work only in black and white is a challenge for the artist," said Bisher, director of Market Street Art Studios. "It forces them to express their thoughts and ideas without the use of the colors which are so fundamental to our view of the world. Only black, white and shades of grey can be used to express their vision."

"Texture, rhythm and movement take on greater meaning as we are forced to perceive without the benefit of the color that normally enhances our everyday life," Bisher continued. "We must participate in the work by providing an emotional color of our own.  All good art plunges us into our own experiences. A black and white presentation can make us delve even deeper."                    

There is a non-refundable fee of $25 to be submitted with each entry form. Entries will be juried by ART247 and awards will be given in the amount of $100, $75 and $25 for first, second and third place, respectively. Viewers Choice Awards will be chosen at the opening reception, to be held from 1-4 p.m. on Feb. 20.

Entry forms and more information can be found online (link).

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