Post-it size artwork to help raise money for SMAC

The Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC) is accepting art pieces for a unique fundraiser.

All artists are invited to showcase their miniature artwork to help raise money for a nonprofit, which brings art to the community through networking opportunities, education and community partnerships. Dedicated to connecting the arts and the community for the enrichment of all. 

According to Tenille Blair-Neff, Board President of SMAC, this will be the seventh year for the Post-It Note Art Exhibit Fundraiser. All art needs to be dropped off at the SMAC Gallery, located at 7 Downing Street in Hollister, on or before Sept. 25. The exhibit reception will be held on Friday, Oct. 2, from 6 to 9 p.m. The exhibit will run through the month of October.

“Get there early to grab your favorite pieces while they last. These will be going fast,” states the SMAC Facebook event page. “Early bird tickets will be sold prior to the exhibit.”

“The Post-it Note 3”x3” Art Show & SMAC Fundraiser is unique because it brings together people of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels in creating truly diverse pieces of miniature art. All the art pieces are on sale for the very low price of $5. It encourages spontaneity and creativity and is open to all community members for participation,” Blair-Neff said. “In the past six years, over 200 artists and community members have participated. That is over 2,000 pieces of 3”x3” art! The money made from this exhibit has raised close to $7,500 for SMAC, supporting daily operations and special projects.”

Blair-Neff said anyone can submit 3-inch by 3-inch art pieces for the exhibit. 

“All community members are invited to create 10 pieces of 3” x3” art,” Blair-Neff said. “All artists are welcome to submit artwork. SMAC membership is not necessary. Artists must submit a minimum of 10 pieces of art. All 3”x3” works of art will be sold for the same price of $5 each. Proceeds from all art sold will be split between SMAC and the artist. Works of art will not be labeled, but artists must include their full name (written legibly) on the back of their work. Artwork should be numbered such as 1/10, 2/10, 3/10, etc. Artworks should be placed in an envelope and labeled with the artist's full name and contact information along with any special display instructions (i.e., diptych, triptych, etc.).”

Even young artists and those who don’t consider themselves artists are invited to participate, said Blair-Neff. 

“There is no age limit,” said Blair-Neff. “You don’t have to be an artist to participate in the show. All are welcome. If you don’t want to make art for the show, it is also fun to buy art on opening night. We recommend you come right at opening time or purchase an early access pass to grab your favorites before anyone else can get them! It is a high energy evening with so much to look at and choose from.”

SMAC is dedicated to connecting the arts and the community for the enrichment of all. The organization’s vision is to be the hub of artistic creativity, educational experience, innovation and partnership for the region, enhancing the quality of life for the entire area. It currently has over 80 members at various levels, as well as 20 volunteers who help at events, according to the SMAC website.