The local artist community has no greater advocates than the Fayetteville Public Works Commission and the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County. Each year, the organizations celebrate artists of all mediums, ages and levels of expertise with the “Public Works” exhibition. This year marks the 15th Annual “Public Works” exhibition. Usually beginning on Fourth Friday in May, this year’s event runs Aug. 28-Oct. 17, due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

In the past, the event opening coincided with Fourth Friday and included of live music by local bands, a variety of vendors in front of the Arts Council downtown and more. The gallery inside the Arts Council was also open on the occasions.

“We have an immensely talented city,” said Metoya Scott, public relations manager at the Arts Council, “(including) active galleries that display the talent of our neighbors.” She listed local businesses and studios like Greg’s Pottery, Cape Fear Studios, Winterbloom Tea, The Sweet Palette and City Center Gallery & Books, all of which stayed open for the in-person Fourth Friday night events.

Each community member can vote for his or her favorite piece — or shop, as some submissions will be for sale,” said Public Works Commission representative Carolyn Justice-Hinson. “People can publish their public vote online, and that will be another way we can hear how the word is traveling.”

Every submission has a chance to win. During the “Public Works” exhibit, the community is invited to submit votes on their favorite works of art for a “People’s Choice.” There will also be an online app for virtual voting.

A variety of mediums is accepted. “It can be any kind of artistic expression that you want to exhibit, including photographs, paintings, drawings and more,” said Hinson. “One lady even had a wedding dress made from toilet paper.”

Residents from Bladen, Cumberland, Harnett, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Moore, Richmond, Robeson, Sampson and Scotland counties, as well as Fort Bragg or Pope Field can submit art. Bring artwork submissions to The Arts Council at 301 Hay St. between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14,  or Saturday, Aug. 15, between noon and 4 p.m. To find out how and when to enter, visit https://www.theartscouncil.com/opportunity/call-art-public-works-exhibition

For updated information regarding the Arts Council’s exhibitions, visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/artscouncilFAY.