BOUNTIFUL -- Even though 2007 isn't quite over yet, it's already time for art lovers to start marking their calendars for 2008. The Bountiful/Davis Art Center recently released their 2008 programs and exhibition schedule, anchored as always by a collection of annual shows including the BDAC Statewide Competition and the Annual Illustrators Exhibition. Between those a variety of new exhibits will be gracing the art center walls, including one by Sandra Rast and one exploring the views along Highway 89.

"I think that we have a wonderful lineup scheduled," said BDAC Director Emma Dugal. All BDAC shows are chosen by a programs committee, who reviews applications sent in by the artists. "In addition to all the old favorites, this year we're adding two new themed shows."

The first of these, "Through the Eyes of the Traveling Artist," will run from Jan. 11 to Feb. 1 and serve as the art center's first show of 2008. The show focuses on art created or inspired while the artist was traveling, and features the work of 25 artists including Louise Shaw, Michal Onyon and Yevgeniy Zolotsev.

Following the traveling artists will be the BDAC Statewide Competition, running from Feb. 15 until March 28. Last year, the competition was won by Don Weller, a professional illustrator who has done covers for "Time" magazine.

Following the statewide competition will be the National Watercolor Society's traveling exhibit (April 4 to May 19), which will be on display at the same time as two of BDAC's annual shows. The Davis County High School Students and Art Educators exhibition will be on display through most of April, to be immediately followed by the Statewide High School Student Photography exhibit.

From May 23 to June 16 is "Response to State Street," which chronicles Utah's Highway 89 through the paintings, photography and sketches of eight artists. At the same time, the art center will also display work by Jinny Lee Snow, Linnie Brown, and Olivia Celine Glaslock.

The second half of BDAC's upcoming year will feature even more artists than the first half, including Sandra Rast, Tom Rogers, Steve Sheffield, Carole Evans, and others. And, as always, the Bountiful Handcart Days Arts and Crafts exhibit and Bountiful/Davis Summerfest will retain their regular places on the schedule.



jwardell@davisclipper.com