BOUNTIFUL --More than 140 pieces of artwork are now being prepared for exhibit during the art show that will kick off Bountiful's annual Handcart Days celebration. The exhibit will run from June 22 through July 24 at the Bountiful/Davis Art Center, 745 South Main Street. This year a special invitational category has been added to the show, inviting visitors to view the work of the many professional artists from Davis County who sell their work nationwide. Other skill divisions will feature the work of amateurs, youth (junior and high school) and professionals.

The public is invited to the Artist Reception at the Art Center on Wednesday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. Visitors during the first two weeks of the exhibit will have the opportunity to cast votes for the People's Choice Awards.

Entertainment from vocalists Maline Robison and Angie Winegar and piano selections and background music from Jo Anne Elmer will also be a featured part of the evening. Mayor Joe Johnson is expected to speak at the event. Treats and hors d'oeuvres will also be provided.

The theme for this year's Handcart Days celebration is "Pioneer Vision and Memo-ries." While artists are not required to address the theme in order to submit their work, an award will be given for art that best represents the theme.

Three of the artists whose work will be on exhibit are Thomas James Allen (youth), Kris Garison (amateur), and invitational professional Simon Winegar.

Allen attended Bountiful Junior High and Viewmont High Schools.

He will be attending Weber State University this fall majoring in graphic art. His work is a portrait of Kouver Bingham, a friend in his art class.

Kris Garison's piece is "Cycle," a work in 3D-mixed medium.

Winegar is a local 26-year-old artist who has exhibited in Utah and nationally as well. He attended Bountiful High School and graduated from Weber State University.

His oil painting is titled "Curious Steed."