When you think about it, most of us already have started an art collection even though we don't think of ourselves as collectors. If you have more than one of anything- it's a collection! Explore a wide range of topics and issues related to art collecting at the seminar, Beginners Guide to Creating an Art Collection hosted by the Kentucky Arts Council, at 4:30 p.m., Friday, March 4, 2005 in conjunction with Kentucky Crafted: The Market at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center in Louisville. Presented by individuals that have built incredible personal collections of original artwork, participants will learn about identifying original work; motivations for buying art; where to look for it and how to buy it. Pre-registration for the free seminar is required by March 1, 2005. For more information, contact Artists and Communities Director Amber Luallen at (502) 564-5116 or [email protected]

Registered participants will also be invited to attend the exclusive, invitation only, Collector's Preview of Kentucky Crafted: The Market 2005, following the seminar. The sneak preview will feature a specialized gallery section showcasing one-of-a-kind and limited production fine craft and fine art pieces. The evening also includes a silent auction, live music, light fare and cash bar. Admission to the seminar and Collector's Preview is free, however tickets for the Light Fare at the Collector's Preview are $20 per person and must be purchased by February 23, 2005.

Now in its 24th year, Kentucky Crafted: The Market is a combination wholesale/retail event that features over 300 exhibitors. The Market is open to the public Saturday, March 5, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, March 6, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center, South Wing A, Louisville. General admission for adults is $8.00; children 15 and under are admitted free. Parking is $5.00. A limited number of wheelchairs will be available upon request. Shuttle service will be provided from the fairground parking areas to the front of South Wing A. Visit the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program Web site at www.kycraft.org, for the official program guide and a $1.00-off admission coupon.

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The Kentucky Arts Council is a state agency in the Commerce Cabinet. Working in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, the Arts Council invests in programs that develop vibrant communities, provide lifelong education in the arts and support arts participation. Every $1 in grant funds awarded by the Kentucky Arts Council helps grantees secure $15 in earned income and matching funds from individuals, philanthropic sources and other levels of government.