The Artists Journey, VACTB

Exhibitions

2021-2022
Welcome to Our 84th Season!

ArtCenter Manatee is Manatee County's premier visual arts center featuring the artwork of many talented local, state and national artists. Exhibitions change monthly in the three galleries and the public is always welcome to the opening receptions, once COVID concerns are resolved, to preview the artwork and meet the artists. Exhibits are free and open to the public excepting one national show - there is a nominal charge to cover shipping and insurance. Our hours are MFS 9-5, TWTh 9-6. Closed Sunday.

Art Opening Receptions
During COVID, our receptions are virtual with only the winning artists in attendance. We'll let you know when we can go live again! We miss you!

Exhibition Schedule and Requirements

The Artists’ Journey Open Juried Show

The Artists’ Journey

Searle & Reid Hodges Galleries

October 29 – November 23, 2024

Every adventure has a story to share.   The artists in this exhibition have shared complex narratives about locations, events, and people.  Many of the artists combined materials in distinct ways in order to encourage viewers to examine their own attachments to specific materials or places.  Some artworks reference an exact moment, while others allude to a state of being in an unexpected place.  There are compositions that tell a story of celebration and others that memorialize those who have passed on.  There are several mysterious and curious narratives that can be found through the placement of objects into surfaces which had a previous purpose and are now part of a new visual experience.  The variety of techniques made jurying the work difficult but I was most impressed with those that pushed their selections of particular objects like feathers, texts, and jewelry into exciting combinations.  Many of the artists processed the materials to suggest symbolic associations in how they constructed focal points and visual pathways.  Visual metaphors have been used throughout the artworks to move colors and textures of objects into formal structures.

Michael Wyshock, Juror

1st Place

Angel In The City, Victoria Kudryavtseva

This piece was selected as first place because of the references to the journey of technology of the human species as well as suggesting hope amongst the threats of industries by the celestial being who is watching over us carefully.   The balance of architecture and light achieved a complex formal structure that allowed the composition to be examined in multiple ways.

2nd Place

Turbulence, Heather Lalanne

This artwork was selected because of how feathers become marks and also create dynamic fluid strikes in the surface. These elements allow the viewer a place to float and drift from one place to another in this intimate surface, instigating the mind to think about moments of place and transitions.

3rd Place

Collage Of Carol’s Creation, Carol Anne Peteani

This artwork was chosen because of how the surface reflects and moves light and how recognizable objects appear first but through their collected mass the familiarity is lost.  The history of where these objects existed before, (such as the watch referencing a time that has passed but is now frozen within these decorative elements) suggests many journeys shared together.

Merit

Comeback, Edward Baldado

This painting deserves recognition because of its scale, energetic colors and textures all contributing to the pose of the figure in a moment of celebration after a lifelong journey of dedication to train, compete and win.

Honorable Mention

Asian Sojurn, Elise Manieri

The mixed media collage was chosen because of how its sections of words, elements of nature, and paint marks merge into new combinations of shapes with other patterns; evolving a poetic shift from reality into a dreamstate where an imaginative journey builds itself.

Honorable Mention

Shelliquary – 2 Relics, Pamela Jones

This sculpture was selected because of how it formats collections of objects into meticulously organized sections within a container; creating a sacred place in which the items can increasingly charge one another to prepare for the journey ahead.

Honorable Mention

More Than Just A Number, Ellen Simon

This fabric artwork has a captivating documentation of sadness but also strength in the unexpected form of a gentle quilt.  The strong symbolism of each stitched object related to the occupations of individuals (such as keys, hangars, and stethoscopes) are juxtaposed against the numbers on each arm to remind us to never forget history no matter how difficult the journey may be.

ArtCenter Manatee Members Exhibition Call to Artists

 

 

ArtCenter Manatee Member Exhibition

Kellogg & Reid Hodges Galleries

An all media open juried exhibit featuring the work of our members.  Our members are the strength of ArtCenter Manatee, without which we would not exist.  With that strength, comes a powerhouse of talent as each year the caliber of work continues to surpass our expectations.

An individual membership can be purchased for $60: Join Here!

Optional: Online Submission Dates: October 29 – November 15, 4 pm

Online Notifications: November 19, by 4 pm

In Person Receiving/Drop off: November 23, 9-12 pm

Opening Reception: December 5, 5 – 7 pm

Juror: Willow Wright, Art Curator at Carrollwood Cultural Center

My love affair with art began as a young woman in New York City. It was not my first love, but it became my greatest. My first love was music. I studied classical piano from the time I was about eight years old into my mid-twenties but decided to switch gears and pursue visual arts when I realized there was no way I would be a concert pianist with the little hands I was blessed with. I completed a three-year Fine Art Certificate program, as SVA was not yet accredited.

After leaving school, I began working in the graphic design and advertising field, doing primarily technical line art and mechanicals. After that, I did marker renderings and layouts for ad agencies, eventually leaving New York and settling upstate, near Albany. I received a BFA in Graphic Design with a specialty in Web Design from the State University of NY. I began a new career in web design and development. I worked in NY, then moved to Florida, where I spent two years working in print advertising again. Eventually, I got a job with eAngler, a local fishing resource, during the Web explosion for two years. I then moved to WUSF Public Media in 2001, first as a Web Designer and then as a WebMaster. Finally, after about ten years, I became the Director of Digital Services until 2020.

At that point, I retired and returned to my first REAL love, painting….that music thing was just a crush, I guess. I felt it was time to reconnect to the physical part of self-expression and that it probably wouldn’t hurt to find a good teacher after so long away from the paints! During that process, I discovered pastels and my current mentor and teacher, Shawn Dell Joyce! I started showing my work and recently won several awards, including an award at the Carrollwood Cultural Center in the Emerging Artist’s show. Very grateful for that experience!

I recently accepted the position of Art Curator at The Gallery at the Carrollwood Cultural Center. I am honored to serve this extraordinary organization and the Tampa Bay Community. My mentor always says that success occurs in clusters! Encouraging other artists to work and show and succeed is extremely rewarding! When we work together, we all succeed.

Problems with your entry? Click here: Exhibition Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Exhibition Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We love our artists! Here you will find the most common questions we receive about entering a show at ArtCenter Manatee.

Q: I tried to upload my images and the form said my image was too big….how do I change the size of my images?

A: There are several ways to resize an image. Below are seven ways you can reduce the size or your images for both PC/Android and Mac /Iphone/Ipad:

Why reduce the size of a JPEG image?

Our website can only accept image sizes of 1 MB or less. This is when you will have to reduce the size of the image, also reducing the file size. Because the use of JPEGs is so common across the internet, there are many tools available where no photo editing experience is necessary. It is suggested that artists try a few options and preview the resized image to ensure it is still viewable prior to submitting.  Poorly resized images may be excluded by a juror as they have no way to truly judge the image. Below is a list of tools and methods you can use to reduce the size of your JPEG image:

How to resize a JPEG using Microsoft Paint

Windows includes Microsoft Paint as part of its standard software and is one of the most popular image editing programs. It offers basic editing and graphic tools, along with the ability to open, save, and convert images into different formats. It also allows you to resize JPEGs. Follow the steps below to learn how to resize your image in Microsoft Paint:

  1. Find the image you’d like to resize on your computer and right-click. Select “Edit”. This automatically opens your image in Microsoft Paint. You can also open Microsoft Paint from the start menu in Windows by clicking on the “Paint” icon. Once the program is open, click “File” and open the image you want to edit.
  2. Navigate to the “Home” tab once the program is open and click “resize.”
  3. When the Resize and Skew dialogue box opens, click the “Maintain Aspect Ratio” checkbox. This way, the proportions of your image remain the same.
  4. Once you’ve set the aspect ratio, you can change the size of your image using either the horizontal or vertical value. This relates to the width and height of your image. When you change one of these numbers, the other changes automatically.
  5. You have the option to resize by percentage or pixel. Choose which one you prefer.
  6. Enter the percentage or pixel value to reduce the size. To reduce the image’s width, use the horizontal box, or to reduce the height, use the vertical box.
  7. Click “OK” to complete the process.
  8. Navigate to the “File” menu and then click “Save As” to save your new file. Enter a filename and click “Save.”

How to resize a JPEG using Windows

If you have a newer version of Windows on your computer, you can resize your image without Microsoft Paint. This method allows you to resize the image directly from the file itself. Follow the steps below to reduce your image using Windows:

  1. Find the image you want to resize and right-click on it. Select “Open With” and then click the “Photos” icon. This brings your image up in a new window.
  2. Click the three dots near the top right corner and then click “Resize.”
  3. When the menu pops up, it offers some recommended standard sizes for email, messages, or profile pictures, etc. You can choose one of these options or choose to enter your own custom dimensions.
  4. If you choose one of the pre-selected sizes, a new window pops up where you can add a filename and save your resized image.
  5. If you choose to enter your own dimensions, a box opens up. Select the “Aspect Ratio” check box to maintain your image proportions and enter your new dimensions. You can also use the slider tool to reduce your image by a percentage.
  6. Click “Save Resized Copy” and then name and save your new image.

How to resize a JPEG using Preview

Any Mac computer operating with OS X or higher includes Preview. This is an image viewer that can you can use to resize your JPEG. Follow the steps below to reduce your image in Preview:

  1. Launch Preview from the applications folder on your computer. Then open your image. You can also go directly to your image, click on it while pressing “Ctrl”, click “Open”, and then “Preview.”
  2. Navigate to the “Tools” option in the menu bar and choose “Adjust Size.”
  3. Select whether you want to adjust by size or percentage in the “Image Dimensions” window.
  4. Adjust your width and height. The “Size Selection” field tells you the size of your new file.
  5. Click “OK” to apply the changes.
  6. Select “File” and then “Save As” to save a copy of your new image.
  7. Enter your filename and click “Save.”

How to resize a JPEG using an iPhone and the Image Size app

There’s no built-in function to resize an image on your iPhone. There are many apps you can download to resize images, such as Image Size.

  1. Navigate to the app store and download the Image Size app to your phone.
  2. Launch the Image Size app from your home screen.
  3. Choose an image from your phone using the gallery icon located in the top left corner. Or, take a new photo using the camera icon located next to it.
  4. Tap “Choose” to confirm your image choice.
  5. Click the chain icon between the height and width boxes to set the aspect ratio. Then enter your new image size. You also have the option to change the units of measurement. You can now see the old image and the new image. When you’re happy with the size, you can download, print, send, or share your photo.

How to resize a JPEG using an Android phone and the Photo & Picture Resizer app

The best way to resize an image on your Android phone, like the iPhone, is to download an app. The Photo & Picture Resizer app is one option. Follow the steps below to change the size of your image using Photo & Picture Resizer:

  1. Download and install the Photo & Picture Resizer app on your device.
  2. Using the “Select Photos” button, open your image. You can also take a new photo using the “Take a Photo” button.
  3. In the dimension options window, you can choose one of the pre-selected sizes. You can also enter a custom size.
  4. The app then automatically saves your new image to your phone. Now you can share, post, or email it to anyone.

How to resize a JPEG using Shutterstock

You can also use photo websites to resize images, such as Shutterstock. The Shutterstock Image Resizer is free to use and is accessible through any web browser. Follow the steps below to reduce your image using Shutterstock:

  1. Navigate to the Shutterstock Image Resizer.
  2. Find the box marked “Step 1” and either upload or drag your image to the box.
  3. From the drop-down menu in the “Step 2” box, select what size you want your image to be. You can also choose to enter a custom size. If you aren’t sure which one to select, click the “View Size Guide” button. This gives you a list of recommended sizes for different uses.
  4. When that’s finished, click the “Download” button to save the image to your device.

How to resize a JPEG using Photoshop

Another common way to resize a photo is through Photoshop. Though this is a very complex software that offers a wide range of graphic and image manipulation tools, you can also use it for simple tasks. To reduce the size of a JPEG using Photoshop, follow the steps below:

  1. Open the Photoshop program and open your image by clicking on “File” in the menu bar. Then, select “Open” and navigate to your image.
  2. Select “Image” and then “Image Size” from the toolbar.
  3. In the image size box, enter the new dimensions for your image. Select the “Constrain Proportions” checkbox to keep the aspect ratio consistent.
  4. Click “Okay” to resize your image.
  5. Then, click “File” and “Save” or “Save As” to store your new image.

Q: I tried to submit my work and I got an error code. What do I do now?

Type of Error Message: “Missing CSRF token code invalid”

Error Message Received when trying to upload a submission. If you receive this error message while trying to submit your work, the first action to take is to clear your computer’s cache and browsing history, then resubmit.

To clear your cache on an iphone or ipad:

Go to Settings > Apps > Safari.

Tap Clear History and Website Data.

Clearing your history, cookies, and browsing data from Safari won’t change your AutoFill information. When there’s no history or website data to clear, the button to clear it turns gray. The button might also be gray if you have web content restrictions set up under Content & Privacy Restrictions in Screen Time.

To clear your cache on a pc/android phone:

Press Ctrl/Shift/Delete for the shortcut to your web browser settings. Find the “Clear browsing data” option, select the desired time range, check the “Cached images and files” box, and click “Clear data” to delete the cached information; on an Android phone, you can also clear individual app caches by going to your phone settings, then “Storage” and selecting the app you want to clear the cache for.

If these remedies do not work, please call the ArtCenter at 941-746-2862 and ask to speak to Angie.

Type of Error Message: “Paypal, something is wrong with your purchase”

Error Message Received when trying to pay the entry fees. If the form allows you to submit, but does not take you to the Paypal portal to pay the entry fees, please call us at 941-746-2862. Most likely your entry was received. We will confirm receipt of your data and take your payment over the phone.

Q: Does my artwork have to fit the theme of the show?

A: No, artwork is independently juried for inclusion in any themed open juried show. As long as it is quality work (in the eyes of the juror), your work will not be rejected. The only instance where theme comes into factor is if two pieces are “tied” in the juror’s eye for an award, the piece that best fits the theme would be selected to receive an award.

Q: Do I have to submit my work online or can I just bring it in on Receiving Day?

A: No, you do not HAVE to submit your work online. This is a convenience we offer for artists who may live outside the immediate area so they only have to make one trip to bring in their work. We will ALWAYS allow artists to submit their work in person on Receiving Day.

Q: How do I wire my piece for hanging in a show?

 

For any questions not answered here, please call the ArtCenter at 941-746-2862. We look forward to seeing your work!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Open Book Exhibtion

Closing Reception: Friday October 25, 4:30 – 6:30

I enjoyed being able to judge this show, open book. It had a nice variety of imaginative entries, from traditional, abstract, to three dimensional and jewelry. I enjoyed each piece. My selections of awards were as varied as the show.

First Place                                                                                                                                                 Tooth Fairy Fantasies #3, Sterling Silver, Grizzly Bear Tooth, Mokume-gane                             Paul Kerkhoven

First place was awarded for the tale of the Tooth Fairy Fantasies. I enjoyed the simple lines that pulled the design together, including delicate metals and an anatomical feature that made the viewer interested in the story behind the prior owner. The delicate design and the metal over the tooth added a nice splash of interest. Nice job!

 

 

 

Tale Of The Tooth Fairy Fantasies

 

Second Place                                                                                                                                      The Chapters Of My Mind, Acrylic Mixed Media                                                                              Susan Art

Second place went to this imaginative abstract. I feel this piece followed the theme well and each element seems to be a different book with its own story. The color was bright, but not overwhelming and the design led my eye through the piece evenly and efficiently.

 

 

 

 

Third Place                                                                                                                                              Bay Cove Forest, Courtmacsherry, Ireland, Watercolor                                                            Kris Peterson

Third place went to this beautiful path through the woods. Just enough detail without killing you with every blade of grass was very well managed. The color is bright and peaceful. The visual takes you right down the path wondering where you go next. The fun use of just off realistic color made the painting bright and fun.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention                                                                                                                        The Book Of Zen, Mixed Media                                                                                                          Judy Lyons Schneider

Honorable mention to this open book concept three dimensional. I like how well the theme was handled and each element makes an interesting view. I enjoy wondering what the artist was thinking with each element of the box.

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention                                                                                                                              Black Elk Speaks (A Reference To The Book By Author John G. Neihardt)                  Mixed Media Collage, Dana Opalinski

Honorable Mention for this Native American interpretation. Again this piece draws you into a story that follows the theme. The design follows the quote that deals with dreams. It leaves the viewer wondering what the dream is all about opening, imaginative concepts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention                                                                                                                              Jurassic World, Watercolor                                                                                                                        Ron Serfass

The final honorable mention goes to this ascending abstract. I enjoy the color combination of complementary hues with a nicely presentation frame. The image bends toward imaginative risings, which again follows the theme nicely.

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

 

 

Juror

Donna Duke Morrison NWS, FWS, SWS

Donna is a native Floridian, born and raised in Bradenton. She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Furman University in Greenville, SC. She lives and works in Tampa, Florida, teaching weekly classes, hosting workshops, making presentations and participating in juried competitions throughout the country. Donna is a signature member of numerous art societies, including the National Watercolor Society, The Southern Watercolor Society, the Florida Watercolor Society and regional and local groups. In 2017 she earned her Mastership in the Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society. She has served on the board of the Florida Watercolor Society for years as well as local societies. Donna has won numerous awards in state, regional and local watercolor societies, and was named as a top ten emerging national watercolorist to watch in Watercolor Artist’s Magazine. Her work has been featured in public and private collections as well as state and national magazines. Donna has been conducting workshops for many years throughout Florida. She enjoys working with artists at all skill levels and facilitating the learning that develops among artists. Her workshops include demonstrations, critiques and lots of individual support. Artists are encouraged to learn new techniques and experiment, expanding their current levels of understanding and becoming more comfortable developing and implementing principles of design in their paintings.

 

Kellogg Gallery

Founded in 1897 when women journalists were not permitted to join male-only professional organizations. The League became an organization for writers, artists and composers, giving them an avenue for recognition of their talents. With now over 1600 members in 81 branches, Sarasota Pen Women is a branch of the National League of American Pen Women. We are artists, authors, and composers.  The artists are a diverse group: painters in oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastel, mixed media, sculptors in various media, glass artist, etc.  We also have artists who illustrate books authored by some of our writers.  Members work in landscape, still life, figurative and collage.

Create An All-Media Open Juried Show

Create, an all-media open juried show

September 3 – September 27, 2024

Juror Statement:

To create is to celebrate the endless possibilities of artistic expression, embracing new ideas, originality, and technical skill. The drive to make art is both courageous and powerful. Throughout history, the arts have been a way to share beliefs and express ideas. It most certainly held for the works submitted to the “Create” exhibition.

In selecting the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place awards, the Merit Award, and four Honorable Mentions, I focused on highlighting a range of media that showcases originality and creativity. Each piece was carefully evaluated for its unique vision, skill, and technical quality. Thank you for making this selection process so challenging.

The awarded works stand out for their ability to push boundaries and captivate viewers, reflecting a wide range of creative expression. It has been a privilege to witness your exceptional talent and to honor these remarkable contributions. Congratulations to all!

Elizabeth Brincklow

 

 

 

 

 

First Place, Janet Flickinger, Transforming

This artwork was awarded the #1 spot for its masterful composition, tone, and exceptional technical skill, all combined to create a captivating, curious piece.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Second Place, Raymond Lawler, Evolution Over Time

I chose this artwork for second place for its joyful expression and innovative approach. It has a unique ability to transport the viewer across different time periods and imagined worlds, and the addition of the 3D glasses truly sets it apart.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Third Place, Maggie Dillon, Morning Maidens 

This artwork stood out for its craftsmanship and skill in storytelling. The artist’s use of fabric, texture, and color captured a visual balance between the real and the reflected worlds. It combines technical precision with a powerful narrative, evoking a sense of tranquility and contemplation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equal Merit, Dana Opalinski, Falling Thoughts

This piece is one of those special paintings that invokes an inquiry as to the intended message. Combined with the unique burnt wood pieces to add depth and texture, this piece found me asking what are these “falling thoughts” of the subject. Very intriguing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best in 3D, Suzy Pease, A Soul’s Journey

The variety of textures and facets of the horse head sculpture lead me to this selection for the Sculpture Award. The elements of the key to unlock different aspects of the horse are intriguing and add to the meaning of this work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention, Lynn Mann-Hallmark, Cat Lady

The rhythm, color, and patterning are wonderful in this artwork. It’s very fresh and lively in its composition. Great style.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention, Ellen Simon, Beach Landscape

“Beach Landscape” is an unusual and lovely piece with great color choices and composition. It tricks your mind a little which I like and offers a little present with the shells in the foreground.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention, Carol Adams, Backed Into A Corner

I admired the perspective of this artwork and the movement in the skirt, streeeeetched between her knees. The storytelling very strong.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention, Jill Lindsey, Athena

I admit it. I have a fondness for owls. This large-scale piece drew me in for its subject matter alone, however, the composition of each unique tile gave the artwork much more meaning. Add in the disguised QR code that leads the viewer to an animation of the owl image with narration and it’s simply a win-win artwork.

 

 

 

 

Summer Sensations Open Juried Show

Summer Sensations, an open all media juried show

July 16 – August 9, 2024

Juror Statement:

Art appreciation can be very subjective. One juror’s criteria can vary dramatically from another’s. We see art through our own unique lens, filtered by our own standards which tend to change and evolve over time. For me, it starts with the traditional elements: composition, color theory, use of light and shadow, dimension, balance, precision, and overall technical excellence. Then the intangibles came, mood, energy, style, an unusual technique, storytelling, and the element of surprise. Even so, it can still be unnerving to rate one work of art against another that might be completely different, yet have great merit in its own right.

So, it was invigorating and challenging to review and choose among the amazing range of work presented here. Everyone brought their very best to this exhibition. From realism to impressionism, landscapes to portraits, abstracts to high-concept—it was an honor to jury such wonderful work, and I have tried to be fair and even-handed in my decisions.

Congrats to the winners, and a heartfelt thank you to all the members and staff of Art Center Manatee for allowing me to participate in this outstanding and captivating show!

Mark Mitchell

First Place, Ellen Kirwan, Blazing Aegan

I surprised myself when I chose this beautiful abstract for 1st Place! The genre is generally a bit outside my typical preferences, and yet I could not ignore the “wall power” of this large-scale piece. The murky depths of the blue field below conjure a contemplative mood, contrasted by the lively splashes of warm tones above—dancing like fire and energizing the room.

Second Place, Susanna Spann, The Yellow Cup 

A beautiful subject and a flawless execution. The cherubic girl’s warm smile and charming silhouette are perched asymmetrically on the top left, drawing you in, as your eye wanders through the greenery. A studied, subtle use of light and shadow illuminate the scene. True mastery of the watercolor medium.

Third Place, Lynn Mann-Hallmark, Jungle Vibe

This big, colorful triptych will bring a smile to anyone’s face. The explorer and jungle creatures set against a sunset are carefully composed to keep your eyes engaged. The poster-like quality of the foreground elements appeal to my pop art aesthetic, while their simplified style remind me a bit of the work of Henri Rousseau.

Merit, Rajini Kanth Reddy, Back To Life

This stark dimensional piece stands out from the pack, with its unusual material choices, textures, and the way it reacts to light. It has a bold, contemporary feel I can imagine exhibiting well in an upscale commercial gallery, or a modern home.

Honorable Mention, Stephen Brewer, Tropical Invite

Not “just another seaside” painting, this large-scale piece boasts a dynamic and unusual composition, contrasting a bright sunlit beach with a stormy sky, while roughly a third of the canvas is cast in shadow. The well-studied shapes and impressionistic hues of those shadows are what really sold me.

Honorable Mention, Gary Green, St. Armand’s Corvette Summer

Who doesn’t love a classic sports car? The artist captures the spirit and energy of a curious local car show crowd, while rendering this timeless Corvette with reverance, painstaking detail, gorgeous reflections, and a creative use of color.

Honorable Mention, George Stuart, Elysian Fields

This is one of those special paintings that invites a conversation with the viewer. A world-weary face in the foreground elicits one’s empathy, lost in a daydream of elusive dandelion wishes. It is a conceptual piece, begging questions about life and spirituality. The intricate rendering of detail and use of color add layers to appreciate here.

 

 

Dreamscapes Open Juried Show

Dreamscapes, an all media open juried show

When considering a piece for exhibition, good composition and excellent technique are a must. It can be any style or subject, the more variety the better. An award winner will have the WOW factor. It may surprise or entertain me or impress me with a high degree of talent, professionalism, or heartfelt emotion. (One tip when entering online: show only image, no frame and be in focus). As an artist myself I understand the joys and struggles of art making. Thank you all for sharing your creations.

It has been an honor.

Diane Schmidt, AWS, NWS ISEA-Master

First Place: The Celestial Womb by Gary LaParl

This outstanding piece is on a very high level of sophistication. The composition and technique are flawless and it is so intriguing to look at and ponder. Makes me want to see more of this person’s work.

 

 

 

Second Place: Questions & Suggestions by Kevin Hawley

I was intrigued and entertained by this piece. Great idea including title. Note the directional aspect. Pointing to an unknown answer perhaps? This one deserved a longer look for sure.

 

 

 

Third Place: Sometimes It’s Just Too Hard To Make A Decision by Alice Sundstrom

I was blown away by this fabulous piece. Here is a prime example of mastery of media, and professionalism. Beautiful, imaginative, and fits the theme of Dreamscapes. I only wish it were larger.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Merit: Symbiosis by Michael Knapp

Stunning show stopper for sure. This masterful depiction makes the viewer go beyond the visual and wonder about meaning. Is this symbiosis mutually beneficial or detrimental?

 

 

Best In 3D: Old Woman With Owl by Sue Kerr

This exciting piece is masterfully done with a variety of textures and finishes. I felt a lot of emotion when enjoying this beautiful work. Bravo!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention: Moonlight by Leann Kaska

Whimsical scene in beautiful colors. I found it fit the theme of Dreamscapes very well. Masterful composition. If I block out the dog, it becomes dull in comparison. Placement and color make the dog vital. This artist has a very good sense of design.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention: Purple Haze by Lynn Shaffer

This lovely pastel evokes the theme of Dreamscapes perfectly. Delicate touch and colors reminiscent of a serene time of day. Masterful pastel work.

 

 

 

 

Honorable Mention: Little Benny Franklinstein by Gregg Wilkins

Terrific art does not have to be serious or academic. I am still smiling remembering this piece. It shows the combination of created sculpture mixed with found objects and lots of detail. I looked carefully and noted the cracked glasses, artists model hands and of course, Benny’s statement.

 

Manatee County School District Annual K-12 Exhibition

AWARDS 2D ARTIST School TITLE OF WORK MEDIA
Grades K-2
1st Place Harley A. Witt Elem Bunny Watercolor
2nd Place Emerson N. Freedom Elem Solomon Crocodile Crayon
3rd Place Lindsey K. Witt Elem Moodscape Watercolor
Honorable Mention Krista B. Williams Elem China’s Festival Tempera & Oil Pastel
Grades 3-5
1st Place Myla B. Rowlett Elem The Pear Soft Pastel & Pencil
2nd Place Nicolas S. Bashaw Elem Blossom Chalk Pastel
3rd Place Abby B. Gullett Elem Glowing Depth Mixed Media
Honorable Mention Elias R. Miller Elem Golden Spinach Ramen Mixed Media
Grades 6-8
1st Place Paige C. Mona Jain MS Untitled Collage
2nd Place Mazie Z. Rowlett MS Sharks In The Water Clay, Acrylic & Ink
3rd Place Cheomin M. Mona Jain MS A Girl With Wings Digital
Honorable Mention Camille M. Mona Jain MS Sunset Paradise Watercolor
Grades 9-12
1st Place Anne D. MSA HS Lily Of The Valley Acrylic
2nd Place Valerie J. MSA HS Rising From Oblivion: A Portrait Of The Dodo Watercolor & Carbon Pencils
3rd Place Amara W. Bayshore HS Swimming Solitude Watercolor
Honorable Mention Isabela E. MSA HS Sallie Adams Men Acrylic

 

AWARDS 3D ARTIST School TITLE OF WORK MEDIA
Grades K-2
1st Place Jason D., Aiden H., Hansel V., & Clifford H. Bayshore Elem Pepperoni Pizza Clay
 Grades 3-5
1st Place Stella A. Sea Breeze Elem The Egg Clay & Acrylic
2nd Place Bianka R-G. Rowlett Elem The Last Day Of The Sun Clay
3rd Place Julianna G. Witt Elem Coil Dish Pottery
Honorable Mention Angel B-S. Ballard Elem Baby Rex Clay
 Grades 6-8
1st Place Grayce R. Rowlett MS Bookworm Recycled Book & Clay
2nd Place Tatiyana S. Rowlett MS Orchid Cluster Mixed Media
3rd Place MaKaylie T. Rowlett MS Stingray Paper Mache’
Honorable Mention Jayde G. Lee MS Old Fairytale Clay & Acrylic
Grades 9-12
1st Place Israel S. Manatee HS Hand And Foot Clay
2nd Place Sarah B. Parrish HS Bonnet Head Plaster & Cardboard
3rd Place Kiera K., Kadance W., & Jaliyah H. Bayshore HS Ceramic Fairytale: The Royals Ceramic
Honorable Mention Bryan C. Bayshore HS Portrait Of Hunter Ceramic

Our Location

ArtCenter Manatee
209 9th St West
Bradenton, FL 34205

MFS 9-5, TWTh 9-6. Closed Sunday

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