Photo of one of the pieces of postcard art

Every guest attending the second annual PostCard Art evening at Illinois State University on February 28 will take home a postcard. But not one of them is likely to affix a stamp to it and put it in the mail.

The idea of the PostCard Art evening, in addition to raising scholarships funds for fine arts students at Illinois State’s College of Fine Arts, is that the guests will leave with one or more pieces of postcard-sized art works by famous, not-so-famous and student artists. Last year’s inaugural PostCard Art evening attracted a large, enthusiastic Central Illinois turnout, and this year’s donated art and attendees is expected to be larger.

The event, which will be from 6 to 10 p.m. in the University Galleries in the Center for the Visual Arts, is hosted by Illinois State University’s Friends of the Arts, the community organization dedicated to raising scholarship funds. Festivities include music by School of Music soprano Michelle Vought, refreshments and an auction of original postcard art. Artists sign the back of the piece, not the front, so guests have to guess which artists created the pieces. Every person attending is entitled to leave with one piece of postcard art. Additional pieces are available for bidding during the auction.

“Last year’s Postcard Art event was tremendous, and we expect an even greater outcome this year,” said John Walker, associate dean of the College of Fine Arts. “It was a successful fundraising event for the College, and an exciting opportunity for the community. This year, besides the art, food and fun, Michelle Vought of the School of Music will entertain guests with a selection of songs from opera to Broadway.”

ISU Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Art and local artist Harold Gregor will participate as an artist and as a long-time Friends of the Arts member. “I participated in the exhibit last year and have already submitted my work for this year,” he said. “I think it’s a wonderful way to raise money to provide scholarships for students in the College of Fine Arts. It’s also a great way to give new collectors a starting place and encourage them to get involved.”

Tickets to the event are $60 per person and can be purchased by completing and mailing the ticket order form.