Austin area artists are encouraged to participate in the 23rd annual Spamtown Freedom Fest exhibit.

Anyone in the area age 16 or over may enter up to three pieces of art at a cost of $10 for the first entry and $5 for each additional entry.

Entries for this competitive event may be taken to the Austin Area Art Center this weekend Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

The show will open Wednesday, July 2 and will close Sunday, July 27.

With a mix of new and familiar artists participating, this

year’s show promises to include a wide variety of art from comical sculptures to new jewelry selections and paintings.

The awards ceremony will be Sunday, July 6, beginning with

Mayor Tom Stiehm presenting the check for the City Purchase

Award at 3 p.m.

The monetary awards for Professional, Pro-Am and Amateur divisions will be handed out afterwards.

“Pie in July” is a fundraising event during the day of Spamtown Freedom Fest awards.

Austin Area Art Center volunteers will serve homemade pie and coffee or lemonade from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

While browsing through the selections, $3.50 purchases a slice of apple, blueberry, cherry, pecan or rhubarb pie and a beverage.

For more information contact Austin Area Art Center at 433-8451 or e-mail aaacoil@smig.net

Business hours are Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.