The Washington-Wilkes Arts Foundation's Fall ArtFest will fill The Square next weekend with art and artists competing for cash prizes. (Photo by Kip Burke) Preparations are nearly complete for this year's Fall ArtFest next Saturday and Sunday, November 8 and 9, bringing both new and returning favorite artists for the crowds of art lovers to meet.

"It's going to be the best yet," President Lou Ricciuti said.

The juried art show, sponsored by the Washington-Wilkes Arts Foundation will see artists in all media competing for some $1,750 in cash prizes awarded.

The weekend's events will begin with a reception Friday night, when members and prospective members are invited to meet the artists at the Fitzpatrick Hotel.

"We're having a membership drive for the Washington-Wilkes Arts Foundation," Ricciuti said, "and we'd like for all prospective members to join us Friday night at The Fitzpatrick Hotel for a reception with the artists."

This year, the art show on The Square will open Saturday at 10 a.m. and run until 5 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Returning favorites from previous ArtFests include painter Anne Ray, photographer John Weber, and jewelry artist Ellen Cowne, Riccuiti said. Joining them are painters Jeanne Mack from Elberton, Michael Lee of Alpharetta, and Tasana Owen-Minshew of Newnan, as well as jewelry artists Anne Wing and Cherrie Granger, and ceramics artist Pat McCaffey.

Again this year, the ArtFest will have free activities for children ages 4-12. Kids will be able to work on art projects of their own at art stations in the Court Street Livery under the guidance of Polly Fievet. "From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., we'll have art projects that kids can work on," she said. "We encourage children to come out and explore their artistic side at ArtFest."

The arts foundation's web site, Washingtonwilkesarts.org, has more information, an online application, and detailed artists' guidelines. For more information, contact Ricciuti at Washingtonarts.3@gmail.com or by leaving a message at 706-678- 5511.