Members of the Southern Heartland Art Guild have joined with employees of United Bank to present the inaugural Artful Harvest Juried Art Show at the Newton County Public Library.

Local artists were invited to submit a recent, original piece of any media. Guild member Jan Jentzen said the 76 submissions include oil paintings, sculpture, photography, collage and other mixed media.

"It’s just a little bit of everything," Jentzen said.

The artwork will remain on display at the library until Oct. 30. Art can be purchased through the art gallery.

Pieces will be judged by Mikki Root Dillon, a resident of Lilburn who works primarily in pastels. Dillon has been named a distinguished pastellist by the Pastel Society of the West Coast, has been featured in "Pastel Journal" and has served as curator of the Gallery at St. Edwards since 1990.

Prizes are $25 for eight honorable mentions, $200 for third place, $300 for second place, $500 for first place and $750 for best of show.

"Even though it is our first show, we’re giving away more money than other local shows," Jentzen said.

Awards will be given at the artists’ reception scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 17 at the library.

Money from entry fees and a portion of the sales proceeds will go toward art gallery scholarships for children’s camps and college students.

Jentzen said the Art Guild once hosted annual art festivals at Salem Camp Ground or on the square, but have not in about four years. She said the guild members hope to resurrect the tradition.

"We really want people to know the guild is here, and for residents interested in the arts to be able to come and see this," Jentzen said, "and also to have a showcase for our local artists."

The Southern Heartland Art Guild is actively seeking new members. Yearly guild dues are $35. Guild benefits include 20 percent off of art supplies and space to display artwork at the gallery.

For more information about the art show or the SHAG Guild, call (770) 788-8799.