It's alive - art that is

Famous works of art will come to life when the 11th annual Art Alive: A Walking Talking Art Contest is held from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 2 at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

Art Alive 2007 will take place on the gallery lawn across from Delaware Park. Admission to the gallery will be free all day.

Art Alive is based on a traditional European custom. Contestants create a living representation of their favorite work of art either from the Albright-Knox or any other major art collection.

Tableaux from previous years have ranged from creative interpretations of L eonardo DaVinci's "The Last Supper" and Augustus St. Gaudens' "Caryatid" sculptures to Andy Warhol's pop art work "100 Cans," which is owned by the Albright-Knox.

Celebrity judges will award points to artists based on degree of difficulty, creativity, interpretation of original piece, quality and overall impression.

Each year, Art Alive attracts dozens of contestants and hundreds of spectators. All gather to learn about art, to relax and enjoy the fun as participants compete for $1,000 in cash prizes.

Entrants reproduce art works in the most creative ways, some spending several months preparing their tableau. The final interpretations are often amazing compilations of people, props and even music. Contestants range from elementary and high school students to business people, family groups, artists and gallery volunteers. All are invited to participate.

This year's event will also include a Student Film Festival, presented by Nic hols School and Squeaky Wheel, from noon to 3 p.m. in the gallery auditorium.

For more information, call 882-8700 or visit www.albrightknox.org.