Oceanfront - "Full Moon Rising" a pastel created at Back Bay by artist Suzanne Stevens, has been chosen to be the commemorative art poster for the Virginia Waterfront International Arts Festival next spring.

"The festival is proud to showcase Stevens' work," said festival director Robert W. Cross. "When I saw the exquisite 'Full Moon Rising,' I knew it would be a lovely image of this area to associate with the festival."

The poster will promote the event, which takes place April 27 through May 21, throughout the 50-mile Virginia waterfront region and includes a variety of musical performances from classical To gospel, from opera to family entertainment.

Stevens, an award-winning artist, often works on location at local wildlife refuges and parks.

"Full Moon Rising" was created last spring at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge when a full moon was coming up and the setting sun had turned the sky into hues of lavenders, pinks and blues.

Stevens, who lives at the Oceanfront, often paints and draws at the refuge and also at Mackay Island National Wildlife Refuge at Knotts Island. N.C., especially during the winter months when waterfowl are in the area.

This is the first time that a work of hers has been chosen for something as commercial as a poster, she said.

"I work down there and I always work alone," Stevens said, "so it amazes me for it to become so public. I was delighted."

Stevens has taught at the Contemporary Art Center of Virginia for two decades and also at the Governor's School for the Visual and Performing Arts, among other places.

An ongoing exhibit of her work is on display at Gus' Mariner Restaurant in the Ramada Plaza Resort Ocean-front at 57th Street.