PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Carousel Art Committee is seeking volunteers to continue work on its project of creating the first wooden hand-carved carousel in New England in almost 100 years, specifically for the 28 panels that will decorate space around the horses.

Some 130 volunteers thus far have been involved in the carving and painting of carousel figures, fundraising and designing for the project. The first finished horse, "Kali," was unveiled in March.

The panel design phase involves the creation of 28 panels, 14 of which will form the upper border of the carousel; the other 14 panels will be placed in the upper center of the ride and below smaller panels surrounding the ride's operating mechanism.

The committee seeks "realistically historic" scenic depictions from the Berkshires' Gilded Age, painted with a palette that is true to the color of the subject. For examples, guidelines and other information, click here.

The application deadline is Monday, Nov. 22;  Reviews and selections by the committee will be completed by the end of the year, and artists will be asked to complete paintings by June 1, 2011.

The Pittsfield 4th of July Parade Committee is looking for a local artist to create the annual parade poster.

The theme for 2011 is "Pittsfield — 250 Years, Past, Present, Future"

Please send Pittsfield Parade a sketch of your idea for the 2011 poster by Nov. 1, 2010 at pittsfieldparade@aol.com. The artist will be notified by Dec. 1.

Finished poster must be in acrylics on 18-inch by 24-inch jessoed masonite, and must be submitted by March 1, 2011.
There is a $500 award, and the poster becomes the property of the Pittsfield Parade Committee to use as a fundraiser.

Questions, call 413-447-7763.