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Austin Artists Harvest Inc. is a non-profit corporation with a three-fold purpose: to showcase Texas artists and craftsman by organizing at least one exhibit and sale each year to promote and further education in the appreciation of the visual arts for the general public to encourage education and training in the visual arts through grants and scholarships The Austin Chamber of Commerce began an annual arts and crafts fair as a tourist attraction in 1967. Artists Harvest was created in cooperation with the Highland Lakes Tourist Association, establishing the Highland Lakes Arts and Crafts Trail each autumn similar to the Bluebonnet Trail occurring each spring. The first Artists Harvest was held under the trees at Zilker Park. A few years later the event was moved into Palmer Auditorium with more than 250 booths of "Austin only" artists. In 1986, the Chamber divested itself from sponsorship of Artists Harvest and a group of volunteers established Austin Artists Harvest, Inc. Any work exhibited must be the original work of the artisan. Originally, only artists living in Austin could apply. Later the boundaries were "within 50 miles of Austin." On the 30th anniversary of the event, all artists who were residents of Texas were invited to apply. The invitation is again open to all artists who are Texas residents. In 1987, the exhibitors were chosen by a jury of professional artists, craftsmen, museum curators and art critics. The result was a smaller number of exhibitors, more room for patrons to view the art, and better quality work. Also in 1987, Artists Harvest launched its first Area High School Art Competition and Exhibit to encourage young people in visual arts awareness and education. Ribbon awards were presented and many art teachers participated by hosting the exhibit and teaching "on site." In 1997, grade school art students were invited to participate. Each teacher decorated a panel with that school's best pieces and the "Kids Art" Gallery was created! It continues to feature works by students in grades K-8. In 1992, for its 25th anniversary, Artists Harvest included the first "Spotlight Artist," which made for much excitement. Amando Pena was featured. The next year Dalhart Windberg appeared. Since then Spotlight Artists have included Daryl Colburn, George Boutwell, Peggy Byars, Marianne Caroselli, Mary Curtis, Dan Pogue, Jay von Koffler and Bill Meeks. Austin Artists Harvest, Inc. has made grants and scholarships to further visual arts training. The first grant in 1986 went to Elisabet Ney Sculpture Conservatory in Austin to purchase a kiln for its sculpture students. Later awards were made to area high schools as well as to individual students and professional artists. Most recently elementary schools who participated in the exhibit have benefited from the grants. Artists Harvest, produced by community volunteers, now enjoys a reputation as the premier annual indoor art event in Central Texas. Patrons are delighted at the excellent quality of the works displayed and at the variety of the media offered. The exhibit and sale is funded by booth and membership fees, admissions, and exhibit sponsors. AAHI pledges to continue this 37-year-old tradition and to keep the many dreams and expressions of creativity alive.