CARSON CITY (AP) - The Nevada Arts Council has chosen three finalists to paint the official portrait of Gov. Jim Gibbons.
Forty-four artists from around the country entered the competition to paint the one-term Republican governor, who lost his party's primary in June.
The portrait will hang in the hallway of the state Capitol.
The arts council Monday selected Ned Bettinger of Santa Fe, N.M.; John Ennis of Yardley, Pa., and Michele Rushworth of Sammamish, Wash.
Rushworth painted the portrait of Gibbons' predecessor, the late Gov. Kenny Guinn.
Gibbons will make the final choice and can pick from any of the artists who applied.
The winner will be paid $17,500 for the painting, frame and hanging materials and will receive up to $2,500 for travel.
Work must be completed by Dec. 17.