The Newport Art Museum’s recent “Wet Paint” celebration brought in a record $89,000 that will support the museum’s exhibition, education, outreach and historic-preservation programs.

The annual Wet Paint event calls on local artists to submit paintings that will be auctioned off to members of the public during the same weekend they’re created.

This year, more than 300 artists submitted 457 works of art. The two top-earning submissions included paintings by Brian Sage and Jonathan McPhillips, which earned $4,000 and $3,200 respectively.

Of the total amount raised, $3,000 was generated specifically to conserve a 19th century oil painting by George Champlin Mason, “Lily Pond, Ocean Drive.”

“Wet Paint holds a special place on our museum calendar because it epitomizes the essence of the museum as a vibrant center for art-making, exhibitions and community celebration,” said Elizabeth Goddard, the museum’s executive director. “Wet Paint 2012 proved that art is very much at the center of life in Rhode Island. Our thanks go to all those who participated and supported the museum.” •