OXFORD – If you can’t make it to France to see the real thing, just trot over to the Oxford Community Arts Center on Wednesday to see a 30-foot likeness of the Eiffel Tower.

The tower is being delivered and installed by the Middfest International Foundation and will stand for three weeks in promotion of OCAC’s annual fundraising gala, which is themed “Beyond French Doors.”

“We’re deeply grateful to Middfest for sharing its treasure with Oxford in an appreciation for OCAC’s mission to promote a culture of the arts,” said gala co-chair Martha Slager. “It’s a win-win situation when non-profits partner.”

Middletown resident and longtime Middfest volunteer Tom Pressler designed the tower to promote Middfest’s 2012 fall festival that focused on France. When the festival’s art director Libby Birch learned of OCAC’s gala theme, she consulted with Pressler about loaning out the structure for use in Oxford. Birch, an Oxford artist with 41 years experience in art education, is connected to OCAC as a previous exhibitor and after-school art teacher.

Pressler agreed to lead the installation of his creation with the help of four OCAC volunteers. For ease in transport, it was designed as three separate sections and constructed of wood with a central bracing system and guide wires for staking. A covering of white twinkle lights will illuminate the structure in its temporary placement on OCAC’s front lawn.

Oxford Community Arts Center hosts its gala on March 23. Highlights will include French food tastings donated by regional chefs and jazz presented by notable local musicians. Funds raised will support 2013 operations and programming. To participate in this year’s gala as a guest, sponsor or in-kind donor, call 513-524-8506, email ocac@oxarts.org, or visit the website at www.oxarts.org.