There is an upcoming show to celebrate the Santa-America Foundation and its mission to bring love, hope and joy to special needs children and families in crisis throughout our country. Trained Santas visit a child or family when a message of love, hope and joy is needed most. 

We are encouraging professional artists, students and teachers to participate in this event. Here are the follow specifications to enter:

A design must be entered first for approval. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Web site at www.santa-america.org and immerse themselves in the cause and images and success stories of the program to date. What does Santa bring (other than material goods)? Why is belief needed? How does reaching out to someone in need change a life forever? How do Mrs. Claus and the Elves help? What is unconditional love? 

The images you create can be from your own reaction, your own images of what Santa brought you. Read the testimonials online about how this project has impacted many. The purpose is to illustrate this project and what Santa brings to all.

The design must be suitable to be created on a final 4-by-5-foot canvas panel that will be hung for display in December at the Eastern Shore Art Center. It will then become part of a traveling show. The portrayal can be made in fabric, appliqué, collage, any paint medium you work in, as long as it can be rolled up to travel.

Seamstresses are encouraged to enter and photographers can transfer their work onto the fabric. All pieces must include a clear reference to Santa, Mrs. Claus, or  his elves, and can be done in any colors or locations. It can be realistic or nonrepresentational, but include the words, colors, or themes of the project.  We are looking for all types of expression. Entries are due by Oct. 1 at ESAC.

Simple sketches and design details including materials used are fine. Those chosen of will be asked to create for the show in December and will receive the canvas panels by early October.

Teachers are encouraged to enter. They can create a panel, and have their students create one as well.

Contact Nancy Raia at (251) 928-2228 or nancy@esartcenter.com.