Art knows no bounds, and the Eatonton-Putnam Arts Foundation, Inc. wants to ensure that photographers can share their photography and encourage others to venture into the art world.

Virginia Linch and Marsha Sichveland have been actively organizing the first advanced photography art competition for both local and out-of-town artists. The 2010 and 2011 shows for amateur photographers were so successful that the Eatonton-Putnam Arts Foundation decided to sponsor a fall show and contest for advanced photographers 18 years and older.

“We want to encourage everyone with an interest in photography to come and support the contest. We have had so many requests to create an advanced photography competition that we decided it was time to honor those requests,” Linch said.

The Eatonton-Putnam Arts Foundation, Inc. has a Facebook page with over 200 members. The page gives advice to those who are looking to capture even more beautiful moments with film, and professionals educate others on how to improve their photography skills.

Entries for the show will be accepted Sept. 12 through the 26 at the Eatonton-Putnam Chamber of Commerce office.  Entry rules state that photographs must be framed and have a single white mat.  Wiring must be attached across the back for hanging.  Any size is acceptable, and the categories for the show include:  Landscapes, Architecture, Birds, Wildlife, Portraits, Flowers, Water World, Country Living, Film Only, Black and White and Digital Darkroom (radically changed or edited images using software or other methods).  Each photograph must have the entire photographer’s contact information, category and title of photo, if applicable, printed on the back.

“There is a $25 entry fee with a three photograph maximum. The cut-off fee is $75, so it is just $25 per picture entered. After prize money has been distributed, the rest of the money will go towards the Arts Foundation,” Linch said.

Judging will take place Oct. 7 and a reception for photographers and their families from 5:30 p.m.  until 6:30 p.m. will follow the judging.  Ribbons will be awarded for first, second and third place in each category.  Cash prizes will be given for Best in Show, first place in show, second place in show and third place in show.

Sichveland is greatly looking forward to the competition, and viewing the creative compositions by artists.

“I really do hope this will become an annual event. We are trying to draw from a wide area, and not just Putnam County. I think the people who attend the show will be inspired to create their own artwork, and there will be something for everyone, as we have such a wide range of areas to showcase,” she said.

The show will be open free of charge to the public Oct. 8 through 23.

“It is a great way to spend an afternoon with family and friends, and the diversity and quality of the subjects will be amazing. If viewers are interested in taking classes in art or photography, the Arts Center has on-going programs that the community can participate in and support,” Linch said.

For more information, visit www.theplazaartscenter.com for complete details or contact Sichveland at (706) 485-6515 or Linch at (706) 485-4054. Questions can also be emailed to putnamsnapper@gmail.com.