Local Artists, Beautiful Weather Create Perfect Combination at Johnston's Art in the Barn Event

The art was aplenty in Johnston Sunday night.

Beautiful weather and a picturesque backdrop were on hand for the second annual Art in the Barn event. 

Local artists and artist from across central Iowa showed off their handiwork at the Friends of Johnston Public Library fundraiser benefiting the Johnston Public Library.

Chris Erickson of Johnston had a prime location beside the barn entrance Sunday.

Erickson's unique wooden clocks were a hit.

"I just come up with the designs," he said of the pieces that sold for up to $75.

The energizing jazz tunes form the Jefferson Oatts Trio carried guests to the back of the barn where appetizers and wine, catered by Johnston Hy-Vee waited.

Willona Goers, library director, said she couldn't ask for a better event to benefit the library.

"We're so excited," she said. "It's a wonderful follow up to last year's event."

By the time the event, which lasted three hours, began 175 tickets had been purchased, but Goers was hopeful ticket sales would reach 200 before the evening was over.

Fund raised from the event will go toward a long wished for learning tool, Goers said.

"We hope to use the funds for an online learning tool for different languages called Mango," Goers said. "It's online so it can be used 24/7. It's been on our wish list for three years."

The program allows patrons to learn one of 20 languages, including English.

Lisa Cooper, event coordinator for Friends of Johnston Public Library, said there was so much artist interest in the event, they could open the basement of the barn for additional showing space next year.