BOWDOINHAM

The Merrymeeting Arts Center is seeking submissions to its next art exhibit, “Vernal Pools and the First Signs of Spring,” which opens March 23.

The deadline for submission of work, which should be based on the exhibit theme, is March 17 at 1 p.m.

Artists of all ages and experience are encouraged to create works in any genre showing the arrival of spring. Works may relate to vernal pools — the temporary basins of water without permanent ground outlets that nurture such species as fairy shrimp, woodfrogs and mole salamander — as well as a broad range of possibilities including, but not limited to, fiddle heads, tree buds, maple sugaring, pollywogs and beyond. Whimsy, as always, is encouraged.

Works must be delivered to the Merrymeeting Arts Center, located in the middle of Bowdoinham village ( redroofed gray building by tracks and Mailly Waterfront Park) on Saturday, March 17, between 10 a. m. and 1 p. m. Gallery agreement forms will be available at the center and must be completed when work is submitted.

The show will open Friday, March 23, with a reception from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the center.

“Merrymeeting Arts Center encourages art, education and community celebrating the cultural heritage and natural environment of Merrymeeting Bay,” the release about the show states. “Inspired and guided by the eclectic values of the life and spirit of Bryce Muir, the center joyfully promotes egalitarianism, whimsy, environmental consciousness, and diversity through its artists, programs and projects.”

The center, located at 9 Main St., is open Saturdays from 10 a. m. to 1 p. m., and other hours by appointment. For additional information call Lee Parker at 841-5914 or Peggy Muir at 504-1132.