ROSEVILLE – Children ages 5 - 17 are encouraged explore the “Wonders of Water” through an art contest sponsored by Kaiser Permanente and Roseville Arts’ Blue Line Gallery. The contest features $750 in prizes in five age categories. In addition, some entries may be chosen for display at the new Women and Children’s Center at Kaiser Permanente’s Roseville Medical Center.

The 174-bed facility will be the largest birthing center in Greater Sacramento when it opens in January 2009. To promote a nurturing, family-centered environment, the center will feature a soothing water theme that evokes the seashore – the ideal place for a baby’s first bath and lullaby.

“The arrival of a new child is an important moment in the life of a family, and our water-themed interior is one way we hope to make it a special experience at our new Women and Children’s Center,” said Chris Palkowski, MD, Physician-in-Chief, Roseville. “The children’s artwork will be a valuable addition.”

Artwork must be original two- or three-dimensional fine art. Entries are limited to one per child, with a $5 entry fee. The deadline to enter is Monday, June 9. For an entry form, or for more information, call 916-783-4117. More information is available at www.rosevillearts.org

“Roseville Arts is proud to be a part of this exciting project that includes the young artists in our community,” said Barbara Dolder, Executive Director, Roseville Arts. “It is so rewarding to see the face of a child when their creation is displayed in a gallery for the first time, and I can only imagine the level of pride and excitement when these masterpieces are installed in the new Women and Children’s Center. The children’s artwork will provide a sense of joy to patients, visitors and staff.”

Roseville Arts’ Blue Line Gallery, the new community center for art and education, opened in February 2008. The 5,000 square-foot gallery is located in the first floor of the City of Roseville’s parking structure at 405 Vernon Street. Blue Line Gallery features exhibitions of international, national and regional scope, with special opportunities for members, children and youth.

Kaiser Permanente is the nation’s largest not-for-profit health care organization and serves more than 652,000 members in Greater Sacramento. Approximately 11,100 employees and more than 1,100 physicians provide medical care and service to Greater Sacramento members. For more information, visit www.kp.org/roseville.

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