SOUTH PORTLAND — Almost 200 artists will convert Mill Creek Park into an open-air museum from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday for the annual return of Art in the Park.

The 34th free exhibition and sale is an enduring tradition with a juried competition, display of art created by city public school students, a “Kids in the Park” creative area, and a food court and live music.

Prizes awarded at Art in the Park are $800 for Best in Show, $500 for Best in Show Photo, and six $150 Merit Awards.

Designs for the show T-shirt, program cover and poster were selected from work by students. In addition, six high school students will be awarded $30 prizes, and art teachers at city middle and elementary schools are awarded $50 to help pay for art supplies.

Recent South Portland graduate Bradley Harding was awarded the $1,000 scholarship named for Arthur Hahn, a festival organizer.

Guitarist and singer Jim Gallant will be performing his own songs from 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the park gazebo.

The food court includes hot dogs, hamburgers and sodas served to raise money for the Rotary Club of South Portland Sunrise; Indian and Mexican food, and sandwiches, salads and desserts from local restaurants.

The rain date is Sunday, Aug. 11, also from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Any decision to postpone the festival will be made by 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 9, posted on artintheparkmaine.com, and announced at 767-7656.

David Harry can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 110 or dharry@theforecaster.net. Follow him on Twitter: @DavidHarry8.

Sidebar Elements

South Portland High School junior Emma Jordan’s work was selected for the program cover of the 34th annual Art in the Park, taking place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 10 at Mill Creek Park.