Parents and children of all ages will have the opportunity to purchase an heirloom, original keepsake in Rehoboth Beach Saturday, July 18.

Third-generation silhouette artist Erik Johnson will be appearing from 2 to 6 p.m. at M Squared, 146 Rehoboth Ave., to create this unique and rare art form. Johnson began learning the art of silhouettes at age 10 from his father, Edward Johnson. He has been creating silhouettes professionally for more than 12 years.

Silhouettes were highly popular in America from 1790 to 1840. However, once the camera was invented, the era of silhouettes came to an end as a form of portraiture. Now it is a rare art form prized by a new generation who appreciate the nostalgic appeal it conveys. Erik Johnson is one of only 15 silhouette artists in the nation.

With a skilled and masterful eye, Johnson uses surgical scissors to create an amazing and accurate work of art. These mementos are created in just five minutes.

All ages are welcome to sit for their silhouettes, priced at $25 for an original and $15 for each duplicate, and framing is available. Appointments can be made at msquared.eventbrite.com.