BETHEL – “The Old Historic House” has been selected as the theme for the 27th annual Faye Taylor Memorial Art Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 27, in the meeting room of the Bethel Historical Society’s Dr. Moses Mason House.

This year’s theme was chosen to highlight the 40th anniversary of the society’s founding in 1966.

To assist the society in celebrating the milestone, students in grades one through six are encouraged to enter by creating an original artwork of an old historic house interior or exterior.

An exterior view might show a stately building with clapboards, small pane windows, wood-shingled roofs and granite steps. An interior view could include a large fireplace with a broad mantelpiece, wide board floors and spinning wheel. Above all, it is important to emphasize the difference between modern houses and those of the past.

All SAD 44 elementary students are invited to enter the show by submitting a finished artwork in any medium (crayons, oils, tempera, watercolors, chalk) no larger than 12 inches by 18 inches. No entry will be considered with writing or lettering (except as part of sign) on the front side.

It must be delivered to the Dr. Moses Mason House by 3 p.m. Friday, May 26, in order to be considered for a prize. On Saturday morning, at least three judges will look at all entries to determine how they relate to this year’s theme and to choose the winners.

All entries must include on the back side, the student’s full name and telephone number, teacher’s name, grade level and school. Entries are to be kept flat. Contest entries may be done as a class project or may be completed at home.

Questions about the contest should be directed to the society at 824-2908. Ribbons, certificates and cash prizes will be awarded to the winners in three divisions: Grades one and two; three and four; five and six.

The contest honors the memory of Faye Sanborn Taylor (1908-1972), a local landscape painter, who was interested in encouraging the creative talents of young people. She was also a charter member of the society.

On the 40th anniversary of the society’s founding, special tribute is being paid to her foresight, as well as the other 17 founders who joined her in establishing the organization, which has sponsored the contest since 1980.

More information about the society may be obtained by calling 824-2908 or 800-824-2910, by e-mailing info@bethelhistorical.org or visiting www.bethelhistorical.org.