One good show apparently deserves another.

Again this year, the Tri-State Artistic Friends will have a Memorial Weekend Art Exhibit at the Ironton City Center May 26-29. The exhibit is both a showcase for local talent, particularly among students and a fund-raising effort for community development.

Last year was the first year for the art show. TAF member Reta Skaggs said the community response was overwhelming, and prompted a repeat performance.

“The people were enthusiastic, we had a lot of walk-ins, a lot of purchase awards,” Skaggs said. “The mayor (John Elam) welcomed it with open arms and everyone was so supportive.”

Cristianne Murphy, TAF president, said she is hoping for an even bigger turnout this year.

“We had more than 30 entrants last year and we’re hoping to double that this year,” Murphy said. “I’ve mailed out over a hundred entry forms. We also had good participation from our local businesses.”

Last year Elam chose one painting, one of fire trucks in the parade procession, from among those with a patriotic theme. Prints will be made of that painting and proceeds will go to the Ironton Port Authority for city revitalization efforts. Orders may be placed with any TAF member or by calling the mayor’s office. A parade-themed painting will be chosen by the mayor for print sales next year to benefit the IPA. Prices are $100 and $60, depending on size.

There will be four divisions for entries: professional, non-professional, students K-6 and students 7-12. Murphy said she was pleased with the reception the exhibit received last year from younger aspiring artists.

“I was so surprised with the quality of artwork last year from our students,” Murphy said. “It blew me away.”

Again this year, awards will be given for “people’s choice” and “most patriotic” entries.

Skaggs said she hopes the community will again embrace the art show both by attending it and by purchasing the artwork for sale. Nineteen purchase awards were handed out last year.

“It’s a gift,” Skaggs said. “To be able to paint is a gift and to be able to show that gift to the community is special.”