Create

Open Book Call to Artists

October 1-25, 2024
Open Book, All Media Open Juried Show
Searle & Reid Hodges Galleries

The lines between books and art are definitely blurry; books inspire artists of all
kinds whether it is a remarkable quote that becomes part of a painting, an
inspiring passage that touches the spirit and guides the artist while they create, or
even a sculpture made of books. Our language even coined phrases like “read me
like an open book.” Artists are asked to share their interpretations of an “open
book”.

Online Submission Dates: September 3 – September 20, 4 pm
Online Notifications: September 24, by 4 pm
In Person Receiving/Drop off: September 28, 9-12 pm
Opening Reception: October 3, 5 – 7 pm
Pick Up: October 26, 9 – 12 pm

 

Online Exhibit Entry

 

Artist Information

Payment Options

Entry Information, Piece 1

Entry Information, Piece 2

Entry Information, Piece 3

Rules and Requirements

Originality • Material must be original to artist and not derived from any published or copy-righted images. Completed in last 3 yrs, sculpture last 5 yrs • No reproductions (prints, giclees) except digital productions. • Work may be shown only once in an ACM or curated show. • Work may not be removed from LiveArtfully Boutique to be shown in an exhibit. Size • Maximum size for paintings is 7’ x 7’. • Any entry weighing over 50 lbs will be accepted at the discretion of the receiving committee and the artist must be available to assist with placement of the piece the day the show is hung. Framing • You may use glass in framed pieces under 22 x 28 inches. • We require Plexiglas on all framed work over 22 x 28 inches. • Unframed canvas needs to be museum wrapped with painted edges. • All photographs to be framed under glass or Plexiglas or printed on museum-wrapped canvas, or metal or glass. • All framed and gallery-wrapped pieces must be wired, with wire ends wrapped with tape. Wire should be securely attached to the back of the frame with screw eyes, one-third down from frame top • Saw tooth hangers, fishing line or chains will not be accepted. • Name, address and phone number must be written on the back of all art. • Mats, glass and Plexiglas need to be clean & free of scratches. • Any entry not meeting these requirements will not be accepted. Fees • Open Juried Shows are competitions. Paying the entry fee does not guarantee artwork will be accepted. The entry fees are non- refundable. Member: $20 1pc, $30 2pcs, $35 3pcs, $25 Diptych, $35 Triptych Non: $30 1pc, $50 2 pcs, $65 3 pcs, $40 Diptych, $60 Triptych *Diptych and Triptych must be in matching frames. • No work accepted for an exhibit may be substituted or withdrawn during exhibit. • Maximum of three entries per person. Sales • Artwork sold will remain in the galleries until the published pick up date. Artists will be notified of sale the day before pick up. Artist receives 65% of sale price. Pick-up Deadlines • All work must be picked up on the designated pick up date. • Any artist who leaves work at the ArtCenter longer than 7 days after the pickup date will be charged $5 per day per piece. Statement of Responsibility • The ArtCenter will do everything possible to protect the work of the artists. The ArtCenter cannot be responsible for loss or damage. • All work will be hung at the discretion of the Exhibition Committee. ACM reserves the right of final presentation. • The judge will be responsible for choosing art for the exhibit and the award winners. • Artists will be notified (phone or email) if their work is not accepted. Awards • There must be a minimum of five (5) pieces in any award category to receive a cash award.
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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.

 

 

 

 

Maggie Bosco

Maggie Bosco is a 27 year old artist currently based in Florida. She received her B.S. in Business Administration in 2019 from the State University of New York at Geneseo and her MFA in 2023 from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA). Combining her passion for art with her strong interest in business and marketing, she has created her own Live Wedding Painting business and Studio Practice. She has shown and sold her work in various group exhibitions including The Annual Student Exhibition at PAFA, Philadelphia, PA, and A Good Habit Formed at Anne Bryan Gallery, Philadelphia, PA. She has attended artist residencies internationally and this year she will attend an artist residency in Ferreira do Zêzere, Portugal. She is currently working on a new series at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens where she paints large scale oil paintings from live observation.

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

Spring Forward, an all media open juried show

Spring Forward, an all media open juried show

1ST PLACE 39E Kittie Yohe Patience Collage
2ND PLACE 36E Sandra Wix Golden Morning Acrylic
3RD PLACE 93 Lorraine Chukly On My Trip Oil
MERIT 40E William Perry Caught In A Breeze Watercolor
Best in 3D 66 Jim Crawford Cubist Cat Raku
HONORABLE MENTION 107 Elise Manieri Blue Lagoon Acrylic
HONORABLE MENTION 84 Ken Snyder No Parking Watercolor
HONORABLE MENTION 21E Michael Knapp Dancing On The Edge Acrylic

Juror: Larry Felder
Larry Felder graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 1974, earning a BFA in Studio Painting studying under California Modernist, Michael Frary, while at the same time learning art direction from Dr. Leonard Ruben. After a successful 30-year career as an advertising and publishing creative director, Felder and his wife, Linda, retired to the Texas coast in 2004 and founded Felder Gallery in Rockport, Texas.

Felder has experimented with different subjects and styles through the years, but now concentrates on Realism. Felder enjoys making things look real in his work, but insists they are not
photographic. “Real to me is not photographic. The human eye is so much better than a camera lens when it comes to seeing detail and light in both the shadows and highlights. My photos are a starting point.”

Felder’s most recent work is personal, using subject matter in still life paintings that he has collected over the years — objects that tell a story when combined together in the right light.

After having success with their gallery in Rockport, the Felders moved to Costa Rica in 2010 and their son, Robby, took over the gallery. Then, after four years, they returned to the States and now reside in Lake Placid, Florida. Felder’s work may be seen at his Florida studio, or at the Felder Gallery in San Antonio.

Larry Felder is a member of Oil Painters of America, International Guild of Realism, Art Center Manatee, and Art Center Sarasota. He has won numerous national and local awards for his work.

Fine Tuned with Larry Felder & Joel Hunnicutt

­­­Larry Felder

There is something about telling a story with oil paint that transcends oral language. At my age I have a lot of stories. I suppose we all do. But it is rare for someone to take the time to hear a good story start to finish. Everyone is in a hurry for you to finish a sentence so they can tell you about their own experience.

In recent years I have tried to tell stories with my work. To present a visual story that begins a conversation with the viewer –– an idea that starts with something I find interesting and ends with what the viewer adds from their own experiences. It is a silent conversation. So instead of someone interrupting my story while itching to get their story heard, we are sharing the story. It becomes both our stories. I start and they finish. That makes us both happy.

My style is a product of early drafting and architectural studies that emphasized precision and details, combined with a BFA in studio painting and a 30-year career in graphic design. While photography is my primary reference, my goal is to create an image that would be what the eye would see beyond the camera lens. Details draw people closer in and thus we start our conversation and we share our story.

Joel Hunnicutt

Approximately twenty years ago I signed up for a furniture making class at a community college. The idea was to learn how to make furniture for my home. As soon as I turned the pedestal for the table I was creating, I was hooked. Not on furniture making, but on using the lathe. I instinctively knew what to do. It felt right. Over the years, I realized that I wanted to take my love of wood, give it the luminosity of
glass while using the forms of ancient pottery. This led me to segmented wood turning. I cut many small segments of wood, assemble the pieces into a rough form and then turn it to the final shape. Through an additive process, I reinterpret the ancient and classical forms and couple these forms with 21st century surface treatments. These forms are made new again with vibrant colors not normally associated with wood.

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ArtCenter Manatee
209 9th St West
Bradenton, FL 34205

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

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