Kathy Ikerd has been selected as the featured artist for the Moorpark Arts Festival 2009.

Her original paintings will be on display during the festival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun., April 26 at the Moorpark Civic Center, 799 Moorpark Ave.

Born and raised in Northern California, Ikerd and her family traveled often while her husband served in the U.S. Navy. The vibrant colors and elegant simplicity of the Far East left a lasting impression that often appears in her work.

Ikerd is inspired by nature, shapes, light and shadow and is known for her color. Her work has been described as poetic and meditative. In addition to her impressionist landscapes, Ikerd enjoys figurative painting and continues to study life drawing.

Ikerd's work has been exhibited in many fine arts shows including "Art Walk" in Ventura, the "Hot Summer Days and Nights" exhibit at the Ojai Center for the Arts and the Ventura Music Festival.

In addition, Ikerd has won awards at numerous juried shows throughout Ventura County, including merit awards at the Buenaventura Art Association, the Harbor Village Gallery, and Ventura College.

Ikerd won first place awards at the "Hot Summer Days and Nights" exhibition as well as first prize in the Professional Arts Department at the Ventura County Fair and the 69th annual Art and Photography Exhibit in Santa Paula.

The festival will also showcase pottery wheel demonstrations by Chad Steele of Moorpark College, hands-on art activities for children and a gourd art demonstration.

The Civic Center will host a display of fine arts and photography, and live musical performances.

The Moorpark Library at 699 Moorpark Ave. will house art and poetry exhibits.

The High Street Arts Center at 45 E. High St. will showcase performances by local bands, dance troupes, singers, and a variety of musicians, including performing groups from Moorpark College.

The High Studio Fine Art Gallery will display "California Landscapes," an exhibit featuring area artists.

Drop off dates for artwork are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon., April 20 and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tues., April 21.

For more information, call the city at (805) 517-6260 or visit www.moorparkartsfestival.com.