From Wednesday, May 1, to Friday, May 31, the Saline County Library is hosting its Third Annual Tiny Art Show. Patrons will be given the opportunity to decorate their own miniature canvases, which will be displayed at the Benton branch for viewing and voting. The Benton branch is located at 1800 Smithers Drive, Benton, AR 72015.

Starting on Monday, April 1, patrons are encouraged to pick up a blank 3-inch by 3-inch canvas from the Benton or Bryant Makerspaces. Patrons have the option of working on their canvas in the Makerspace with the library’s supplies during Open Hours, or they can decorate their canvas at home with their own art supplies. This art show is open to anyone, ages five and older. Both children and adults are encouraged to participate.

Canvases are available to patrons on a first-come, first-served basis. Anyone who still wants to participate after the library runs out of blank canvases is welcome to purchase their own 3-inch by 3-inch canvas to enter into the art show.

Patrons are encouraged to use paint, markers, fabrics, or any other art supplies they can attach to the canvas. Once the canvas has been decorated, it should be returned to the Benton branch no later than Saturday, April 27. The library reserves the right to deny any entry that displays inappropriate or unkind messages or images. 

Entries will be on display at the Benton branch from Wednesday, May 1, to Friday, May 31. During this time, patrons will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite art pieces in both the children and adult categories. The winning pieces in each age group will be announced on Monday, June 3, then participants will have one week to take their artwork home. 

“Tiny boards are great for those who want to try something creative but might be intimidated at the thought of filling a large canvas,” said Makerspace Specialist Becca Griffin. “The tiny space can spark thinking outside the box!”