It’s almost here! Each year Artown selects an artist to create an artwork that’s used to give the festival an annual “look and feel.” The 2010 selection is Reno-based media artist Zoltan Janvary and Artown is at work now translating his artwork into graphic elements for the Little Book, festival poster, t-shirts, web site and more.

Janvary was inspired to create this year’s artwork from three genres of art – fine art, theater and literature. Specific lines within the artwork represent those of classical paintings while others detail the depth and real-world surroundings. The artwork also emphsizes vibrant colors to meld with the bold Artown logo and will eventually include a special 15th anniversary mark.  

Janvary was selected as the 2010 poster artist by Artown and a committee comprised of local arts representatives. Each year Artown solicits local artists to submit their work for review and this year a record number of artists participated in the process. See some of his past portfolios.

In addition to the Artown commission, Janvary has received a number of honorary awards and recognition including: 2007 Nevada Arts Council Grant (NEA);Sierra Arts Council Grant in 1997, 2000, 2003 and 2006; Jordanstone College of Fine Arts Scholarship, Dundee, Scotland 1993; and the Hungarian Ministry of Education, Derkovits Scholarship, Budapest, Hungary 1991-1994 to name a few. As an art instructor at the University of Nevada, Reno, Sierra Arts Foundation and Truckee Meadows Community College, Janvary teaches a diverse group of artists from beginner to advance. Since the 80s he has delved into painting, printmaking, drawing and digital imaging using a computer and digital camera. Experienced in both academic and commercial art environments, Janvary has comprehensive knowledge of traditional and contemporary art, art history and design.

Check out thumbnails of past Artown artworks.

Each July Artown synthesizes more than 400 events into one monthlong festival that’s an extravaganza of arts and culture. Theater, live music, workshops, tours, visual arts exhibits and more combine into one landmark event. 

Of course, none of it would be possible with the many organizations and artists that submit their events to be a part of the festival, this year July 1 – 31. Now is the time for event presenters to submit their events for consideration as part of the 15^th annual festival. The process takes about 15-20 minutes initially to submit through the online form, and an additional 5-20 minutes in March to approve the event and provide marketing resources. (Then you actually need to produce the event!) 

The submission deadline for 2010 Artown events is February 17.  Presenters should review the presenter’s handbook and complete submission details prior to submitting their event.  For more information on becoming a presenter call 775-322-1538.