2021 Art Show Award-Winning Art
Judge's Comments
What an honor it was to review and enjoy close to 200 pieces of art. Jurying the show was a difficult task that I took seriously. I was lucky enough to be able to view the show in person so I can see the details, dimensionality, and energy. As a judge, I tried to approach the selection process in an egalitarian way, not just what I would like in my house. My criteria included the following and each piece was rated accordingly:
(1) Design and composition,
(2) technique, skill, craftsmanship,
(3) creativity, originality, uniqueness,
(4) wow factor, and
(5) intention (what is the artist trying to say with their piece?).
This was a show of all mediums, styles, and themes. As you can imagine, choosing awardees was a challenge. Judging is a subjective task and in no way discredits anyone’s abilities as an artist. I hope all the participating artists feel proud of the magic they accomplished by creating and entering the show. I feel proud for you and will share your work with the world by uploading a video of the show highlighting all the artists to my Youtube page. You never know who will connect with your art. Keep creating!
Gabrielle Javier-Cerulli
about.me/gabriellejc
Best of Show
Art Long • “Three Birches” • Oil Painting
The technique & execution of this oil piece is so impressive. My eyes were fixated on the skillfully painted peelings, the surprises throughout, the details on the birds, and the flow of the background into the foreground. The final product exudes the work of an accomplished, experienced artist.
Merit Awards
Honorable Mention
Sue Fix
“Anatomy of a Maranka Gourd” • Cut Gourd and Alcohol Ink
A viewer will find it difficult not to want to touch this piece. The skeletal aspect of it makes you think of literal and figurative bones that keep things together. Add in the opened center and you’re transfixed by this simple yet complex piece.
Steve Bensing
“Superior World” • Photography
This photograph gives a visceral reaction due to the subject matter, shape, and composition. It can convey a feeling of aliveness and sacredness due to the elements of calm sand, slight ripples, blue sky with puffy clouds, and a horizon. But it can also convey the end...what’s after the horizon? The clouds are so low and crushing. The viewer asks how did he accomplish this?