The second annual Painters? Picnic gets underway this weekend at the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art.

It was a huge success last year and it offered the public a chance to meet the artists in a relaxed atmosphere, while having a picnic in the gardens.

Artists can bring in two pieces of work to sell for under $500, including posters, ceramics or other crafts.

The event takes place on Saturday, October 15, between noon and 3 p.m. in the Botanical Gardens.

Masterworks curator Elise Outerbridge said the aim of the Painters? Picnic is two fold.

?It is to allow artists in Bermuda to sell artwork which is affordable, at $500 or less, to art enthusiasts who would like to buy local art priced within a budget,? she said.

?The event allows the public to meet the artists first-hand and is for many an entry point for purchasing artwork.?

Artists are encouraged to bring their easels and paint during the day.

Mrs. Outerbridge said this was the second year for the Painters? Picnic and the idea for it grew out of calls from the public.

?This event and grew out of many requests for affordable original art,? she said.

Many artists have already signed up to take part and they are expecting more as the event nears.

?So far around 40 (have signed up), but we usually have more on the day,? she said.

?They will have two works of art each, so there will probably be at least 100 works for sale.

?Many of the artists will be painting in and around the gallery, including Vernon Clarke, Dan Dempster, Judi Davidson and Otto Trott.?

Masterworks is also offering picnic baskets, gratis to artists partaking in the event and $15 to the general public.

?Everyone is welcome,? said Mrs. Outerbridge.

The event will go on rain, blow or shine. Admission is free. For more information ( 236-2950.