FernFest is getting even artsier this year!

›› Kimberly Dean

Templed Mind and Fernwood NRG are presenting an art challenge open to all Fernwood residents: Fernwood Paint-off at ­FernFest 2014. Show us how Fernwood inspires you creatively!

For the Fernwood Paint-off, ­participants will receive a 6” by 6” wooden panel to paint or draw on. This event is free to participate in. Please bring your ­favourite painting or drawing supplies and your sense of discovery.

On Saturday, June 21 between 10a.m. and 12p.m., be among the first 36 people to check-in with us at the Field of Dreams (Vic High field) to receive your wooden panel. Search for creative ­inspiration within Fernwood’s boundaries (Bay St., ­Shelbourne St., Pandora Ave., Cook St.). Everyone is invited to take part and explore their creative side. No experience necessary.

The paintings will be collected and combined to form a large ­community mosaic which will be part of a free ­public exhibition at Templed Mind Studio ­Gallery on June 27 and 28, from 12p.m. to 4p.m.

To further celebrate our creative community, there will be a closing party for this exhibition on Saturday, June 28. Local musicians, Dia-Nos will perform at 8p.m. at Templed Mind, 2006 ­Fernwood Rd. Doors at 7:30p.m., $15 cover. ­Refreshments will be provided.

All ­artists will be able to keep their piece after the exhibition.

This is your chance to be part of a ­neighbourhood-wide collaborative ­exhibition and celebrate local arts in our community!