ELLENSBURG - The Western Art Association will open the doors of the Kittitas Valley Event Center on Friday, May 16, to kick off the 42nd annual National Western Art Show and Auction.

The show will have more than 60 exhibit booths filled with artists' displays and artists working on demonstrations and Quick Draws. Scheduled are three auctions of original fine art.

Hours of the show are Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday 10-3. The Quick Draws are set for Friday, beginning at 5 p.m. and Sunday at noon, followed immediately by the auction of those works and the day's demonstration artworks.

The only event requiring a ticket is the Saturday Dinner and Auction which begins at 5 p.m. Contact WAA, 509-962-2934 for ticket information.

This year's featured artist is Hita von Mende, who created the poster art "Moon Horses". The original artwork will be included in the Saturday evening auction.

Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to visit with several artists who are new to the show this year as well as many artists who have participated in the show for a number of years.

This year FISH, the local food bank, is partnering with the WAA to raise funds for its much needed service. FISH volunteers will serve lunch on Saturday and Sunday from the kitchen between the exhibit halls. The menu will include soup, sandwiches, salads and dessert, all for $6.

Also on hand Saturday will be the "Art of Wine", sponsored by the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce.

The tasting will be held in the armory and run from noon-5 p.m. Contact the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce for ticket information.