Morgan Arnett’s artwork was selected as the official artwork for the 9th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival. The festival will be held at the Foley Sportspark on Father’s Day weekend, June 14 – 15.

Morgan is currently a senior at the University of West Florida pursuing her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a focus in painting and printmaking. She has spent most of her life living in Pensacola, and has been fortunate to have had a very supportive family throughout her artistic career. Her main objectives at this point are preparing for her internship in Brussels, Belgium and for her solo exhibition in December of this year. She hopes to further her education by gaining a Master's degree and by traveling as much as possible.

Morgan’s poster depicts three colorful hot air balloons and includes scenes from our Coastal Baldwin area. “The artwork captures the essence of the festival and we are excited to share this beautiful rendering with the public,” stated Russ Moore, 2013 Festival Chair.

Official festival posters and t-shirts depicting the official artwork will be available for purchase at the Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival. Artwork can also be purchased in advance by visiting, www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com or contacting the South Baldwin Chamber at 251-943-3291.

More than 50 colorful hot air balloons will participate in the 9th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, presented by Tanger Outlets. The event will take place at the Foley Sports Complex, located at 18507 U.S. Highway 98 West, Foley and admission to the festival is free. Weather permitting, balloons fly early mornings and late evenings. The festival features a nightly balloon glows, hot air balloon rides, the highly popular Disc-Connected K9’s World Famous Frisbee Dogs, free Kid’s Fun Zone, antique tractor displays, arts and crafts, live music and great food.

For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com or contact the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce.