Local artists have until January 9, 2009, to submit work to be considered for the 2008-09 Provincial Art Bank Program. The program recognizes and promotes the works of Newfoundland and Labrador�s visual artists by exhibiting original art in public buildings.

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said since its establishment, the Art Bank Program � formerly known as the Art Procurement Program � has collected more than 2,600 pieces of artwork.

Minister Jackman noted submissions can be made through an artist�s commercial art gallery or dealer or, if an artist is not represented by a commercial art gallery, submissions can be sent directly to The Rooms Provincial Art Gallery.

The Provincial Art Bank Program�s budget for 2008-09 is $125,000. The Rooms Provincial Art Gallery manages the submissions and the adjudication process, as well as ongoing support and care for the acquisitions. The Art Bank Program jury comprises five regional representatives from the arts community.

Artists are reminded that they must provide images of the work to be considered in either digital files or 35mm slide format, as per the submission guidelines. Detailed submission guidelines and submission forms are available at: www.therooms.ca or by calling 709- 757-8047.