More than 60 people came out Sunday afternoon tolook at entries in this year’s Guinea Heritage Association Fine Arts and Photography contests that are part of the annual Guinea Jubilee celebration.

Eight artists submitted a total of 10 entries in this year’s contests, with the Meet the Artists Reception held at Buck Rowe’s General Store Museum in Bena.

It was 28 years ago, in 1991, that the GHA held its first Guinea Jubilee art contest. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Guinea Jubilee festival and next year, in 2020, GHA will celebrate the centennial of C.B. Rowe and Sons General Store.

Much has happened over the years and these anniversaries mark important milestones in the life of the Guinea community and the Guinea Heritage Association, according to GHA vice president and fine art/photography chair Leslie Belvin.

“This could not happen without the support of the community who value the unique heritage of the Guinea area and culture, the artists, and the arts,” Belvin said.

The two contests are possible due to the sponsorship of the Fine Art Print Contest by Hogg Funeral Home. Pam Doss, executive director of the Bay School Community Arts Center in Mathews, was judge for the contest.

The winners will be announced on Guinea Heritage Day on Sept. 8 at Achilles Elementary School. The Guinea Jubilee will be held on Friday, Sept. 27, from 3 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

The Guinea Heritage Association is always seeking sponsors to support its mission of preserving and highlighting the history and culture of Gloucester County’s Guinea area. Anyone interested in serving as a sponsor may call Belvin at 804-642-9002.