The Bell County Historical Society and Museum in Middlesboro is looking for art produced by local artists.

The museum is planning an exhibit of artwork showcasing paintings, drawings or sculpture created by local high school students and students from any other area who have a connection to Bell County.

“We would like to create an exhibit of artworks by student who have ties to Bell County to share with the community,” museum Historian Tim Cornet said.

The students should submit up to 10 examples of their work and at least one of the pieces should show a historical connection to the Cumberland Gap area. These could be paintings of early Middlesboro or Pineville or places in the rural areas of Bell County or sculptures of early pioneers for example.

“We want to get younger people involved with the museum, we are encouraging all high school students in the area to participate and share their talents, with us and the community,” said Heather Parks Cosby from the museum. “We will have an opening for the selected artists and their work will be displayed throughout the museum.”

Prizes will be awarded by the museum for a first, second and third place work of art to be chosen by the museum staff.

The original end date for submitting was set for Feb. 27, but due to the weather and school closings it has been extended.

Students can bring their artwork to the museum, the new deadline for submissions is 4 p.m., March 6.

The exhibit will be open to the public March 23.

The Bell County Historical Society Museum is located at 207 North 20th Street in Middlesboro. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information contact the Bell County Historical Society at (606) 242-0005.