BOWDOINHAM — The Merrymeeting Arts Center seeks 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 Saturday 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.

Subject possibilities include but are not limited to fiddleheads, tree buds, maple sugaring and pollywogs. Whimsy is encouraged, according to a release from the center.

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) between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. March 17. Gallery agreement forms will be available at the center and must be completed when work is submitted.

The show will open March 23, with a reception from 5:30 p.m. 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 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 morel information, call Lee Parker at 841- 5914 or Peggy Muir at 504-1132.

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