Local artists are being sought to “think outside the box” for this year’s Orcas Island Education Foundation (OIEF) Food for Thought fundraiser by fashioning an artistic creation from a simple wooden unfinished box provided by the organization.

Last year, local artists received wooden fish decoys with no rules other than to keep their creation within a certain size. The result was 42 unique, beautiful, fanciful, whimsical, artsy fish that garnered $25,000 for the public school from enthusiastic bidders at the Food for Thought Benefit.

This year, the same rules apply and any medium may be used. The box is simply the means to an inspiring end. The finished creations will be displayed around Orcas the week of November 2, then be up for auction at the Food For Thought Benefit on November 19 at Camp Orkila. The proceeds go towards funding Orcas Island public school education programs. OIEF also supports the Farm-To-Cafeteria program, music in the elementary school and the Arts Education Initiative, which brings dance and drama to the elementary and middle schools. All participating artists will receive a complementary ticket to the event to share the enthusiastic atmosphere their art creates.

“We are so excited to spotlight our local artists, and we anticipate this year’s auction could be our most successful ever!” OIEF Board President Michelle Reed said.

Artists who wish to participate are encouraged to stop by the Chamber of Commerce Office in Eastsound to pick up a box no later than August 17. The number of boxes is limited, so it is recommended that interested artists do not delay.

Call Tracey Levine at 376-4964 or email crosvine@rockisland.com, or Michelle Reed at 376-8815 or email mareed@rockisland.com with questions.