IN THE ARTS

Cooper paintings on display at Wells Fargo

Community Art Projects is presenting an exhibition of paintings and drawings by Gene Cooper. The series, “Artist’s Spaces,” will be on display through April 3 at the 2nd Floor Gallery, Wells Fargo Bank Building, 260 Ocean Ave.

Cooper, a Laguna Beach resident, has had extensive experience in teaching, as a professor of modern French, American and Japanese art history.

Retired in 2003, he has focused on painting on a daily basis.

Recent involvements include academic projects such as public lectures, writing articles and curatorial work. This series gives the viewer a provocative perspective on famous artists in art history.

City announces banner competition

The city of Laguna Beach is seeking entries for its 2009 Banner Competition, a project of the Arts Commission. Selected artists are provided with banner material, 4 feet by 16 feet, on which to paint original vertical art work to be displayed on lampposts throughout Laguna Beach during the summer months.

Design entries will be accepted until 4 p.m. March 20 from residents of Orange County who are 18 or older.

An honorarium of $2,000 will be given for all completed banners selected.

Chosen designs for banners can be painted in oil or acrylic, and must be delivered by May 15.