KELSEYVILLE, Calif. – Each year the winning poster in the Kelseyville Pear Festival Poster Contest is sold in a live auction at the kickoff barbecue and concert held the Friday evening before festival day.

This year the winning bid for “Pear Picking Day” was made by Tina Kingsley of Bird Brain Designs in Kelseyville.

When asked why obtaining the poster was important to her, Kingsley gave two reasons.

The first reason was the design and style of the poster itself. Ruth Morgan, the painter, was inspired by the styles of Grandma Moses, a renowned American folk artist, and Charles Wysocki whose works depict a stylized version of American life of yesteryear.

Kingsley knew the piece would fit very well with other pieces she already owns.

Her second reason, and “what really sealed the deal,” was that the proceeds would go to the building fund for the new Kelseyville High School FFA barn that is due to be built this winter.

The new farm location on campus will add to the four campus greenhouses currently on site.

Kingsley feels strongly that students need a place to keep their animals where instruction and exchange of experiences with other students’ animals can take place.

The painting is already proudly displayed in Kingsley’s home.

The kickoff dinner was held for the fifth year in the courtyard of Wildhurst Vineyards and Tasting Room on Sept. 26. A barbecue dinner was catered by Bellisimo and a variety of Wildhurst wines were featured.

The painting was auctioned between dinner and the Dave Stamey performance. The Cobb Stompers opened for Stamey.

Find information about each year’s festival at www.kelseyvillepearfestival.com .