The San Diego Watercolor Society has announced the opening of the 44th Annual International Exhibition, a globally recognized exhibit for the highest standard of excellence in water-based art. Established in 1965, the San Diego Watercolor Society has grown into one of the largest and most active in the United States with the International Exhibition serving as the annual highlight over four decades, according to a news release.

This year’s show is one of the most competitive in its storied history, with a record 829 entries from artists representing 29 countries and cash awards totaling more than $20,000. The opening reception will be held on Friday, Oct. 4, from 5-8 p.m. in SDWS’s gallery, located in Liberty Station’s Arts and Culture District.  The reception is open to the public.

The show will feature carefully curated works in a variety of water-based media including watercolor, gauche and acrylic from 101 internationally known and collected artists.

Proceeds from the show help fund the gallery and aid with SDWS’s Community Outreach Program. Last year, the program provided art supplies and instruction to over 560 artistically underserved elementary school students, senior center residents and former foster youth in San Diego County.

The gallery show will be open daily from Sept. 29- Oct. 31, from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Paintings will also be available for online viewing and purchase Oct. 4 at www.sdws.org.