THE Fiji Arts Council is calling on all artists to come forward and be part of the National Arts Exhibition which will be a foundation to showcase local artwork to the international and Pacific arts arena.
Council director, Laisiasa Veikoso said many artists did not take advantage of the opportunity that arose during such programs.
Mr Veikoso made the comment during the launch of the 2012 National Arts Exhibition yesterday.
"We do not have any limitations to the number of artists who want to be part of this exhibition," he said.
"We will accommodate for as many as we can because we feel that this is one way in which we can help develop their talent and assist them in their career paths as artists."
The art exhibition began in 1975 and had been a continuing event until 2009.
With the help of sponsors and the Fiji Arts Council, the event was started again this year.
"Lack of funds had prevented the organisers from putting together a show in 2009," said Mr Veikoso.
"But after that everything is now in place for a bigger and better show for this year.
"This is a grand opportunity for all local artists to come and be part of the show and to showcase their talent," he said.
The winner of the National Arts Exhibition will receive $2500 in prizemoney while the winner of the emerging artist category will be awarded $500.
Members of the judging panel are Mr Veikoso, Larry Thomas, a curator and FAC board member, and three other established artists Josie Crick, Jane Ricketts and John Mausio.
The event will be held at the Fiji National University, Raiwai Campus from November 19 to November 24.