North Carolina Azalea Festival unveils 2017 official artwork

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The 70th Annual North Carolina Azalea Festival is not until April, but organizers are already unveiling its official artwork for the next year’s festival.

The work was created by local artist Sean Ruttkay, who was chosen as the 2017 North Carolina Azalea Festival official artist.

Sean’s work artwork for the festival is titled “Sea of Spring” and represents the power of water and emphasizes the natural beauty of the Port City.

“I cannot be more over the top honored to be in this canon of such wonderful artists who have come before me, 70 years of artists,” Ruttkay said.

Thursday night’s official art unveiling also marks the beginning of the North Carolina Azalea Festival Children’s Art Contest.

The festival is also introducing a high school writing contest this year.