[!@#$%!]

hm, let's see.

if last year went really well & you want that my first thought is just keep doing what you're doing.

however if you're looking to discharge some of the overwhelming responsibilities on other people (hah), i'd establish some kind of "board" where you can dump these decisions. invite some local luminaries to judge/curate the exhibit. preferrably someone who gives 2 shits about art, and has a clue, or you'll end up with an exhibit of coffee mugs and ceramic poodles.

well a "board" or what not would help also to establish the reputation of the festival by adding name recognition etc. would also take the heat off the organization if somebody is not happy.

setting up would just take a few bold phone calls/emails and maybe sorting out a meeting. then you'd have the perfect excuse to meet them as well. depending on your town you could have tons of choices or maybe you're stuck w/ the mayor & the fire department