The Pennsylvania Department of Aging and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts announced they are accepting works of art created by Pennsylvanians age 60 and older for the first Older Artists of PA Showcase. The deadline to submit artwork is April 4.

The exhibition will feature winning pieces selected by panels representing each of five regions across the commonwealth and will be on display in the state Capitol’s East Wing Rotunda in May, which is observed nationally as Older Americans Month. Carbon, Schuylkill and Monroe counties are in the northeast region, while Northampton and Lehigh counties are in the southeast region.

“Older Pennsylvanians have made endless contributions in the arts throughout their communities and across the commonwealth,” said Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich. “We have seen them through the handmade ornaments submitted every year by our Senior Community Centers to decorate the Christmas tree in the state Capitol Main Rotunda. Older adults have shown their creativity through various art programming offered at the SCCs, and older artists have participated in the annual Art of the State exhibition presented by the State Museum of Pennsylvania.

“We look forward to seeing all of the artwork submitted by older adults as a celebration of their creative talents while raising awareness of the important contributions they make every day.”

Both professional and non-professional artists based in Pennsylvania are invited to contribute up to two pieces of art for consideration. There is no cost to enter and the pieces must have been produced within the past 18 months.

Artwork can be watercolors, oils, acrylic, photography, ink, pencil, graphic media or mixed media; however, it can be no larger than 48 inches in any direction or weigh more than 10 pounds.

Handmade crafts, jewelry and pottery are not being accepted.

In addition to hanging their work in the showcase, the winning older adults will also have the opportunity to sell their pieces throughout the month of May.

“Artistic expression is tremendously beneficial for older adults, not only due to the creativity it sparks, but also for the interpersonal connections and sharing of experience it inspires,” said Karl Blischke, executive director of the state Council on the Arts. “We are excited to partner with the Department of Aging to bring the showcase to life and can’t wait to see the creative work of older adults from across the commonwealth.”

Artists can submit their work either through an online form at https://form.jotform.com/250653621387055 or mail to Jessie Pierce, executive director, Pa. Council on Aging, c/o Pa. Department of Aging, 555 Walnut St., 5th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101. Questions can be directed to jesspierce@pa.gov.

Submissions must include a clear photo of the submitted pieces for the panel to review.

Those whose works are selected will be notified by April 18 to make arrangements for transporting their artwork to the Capitol building. All work that is selected must have wire hangers attached to use for display.