The jurist for the 2024 Annual Juried Show was watercolorist Ann Abgott, FWS, AWS.
The overall competition was very keen and very competitive. I was struck by the diversity of the submissions.
“My first objective was to have a balanced show. Looking for Landscape, portrait and figure, still life and flower, abstract and OTHER. I found that in all of the submissions !
Composition and design from my point of view is one of the essential components for a successful painting. Technique and craftsmanship should never be the one dominating factor.
It was a pleasure and an honor to be associated with your organization and the fine artists that you represent.
Despite the end result I hope everyone will think positively , never lose their passion to paint and compete!
Without question the award winners definitely exemplified the highest level of achievement !
Anne Abgott
AWS NWS TWSA FWS
Best in Show: Joan L.
This painting lives up to its title. It is quiet, moody and thoughtful. The artist has also used quiet colors to convey the
tone and the emotion . Nice composition great painting!
First Place: Marcela M.
A perfect abstract ! It has line texture depth and motion! There is great impact and color. Only one thing that could make it better! The artist might consider painting larger?
Second Place: Mary Kathryn
A wonderful loose watercolor ! This artist has achieved a definite “ Signature” look. This is a busy scene with a focus of interest! Nice composition and repetition of colors.
I wish I could do this
Third Place: Mary Ellen
Love the color, love the composition, love the feeling of motion ! Tilting the composition was daring and creative .
Again maybe bigger?
Honorable Mention : Susan G.
The artist has this animal up close and personal ! The focus of interest is definitely the eye! The grays and neutral colors are wonderful but the repetition of the warms in the body of the beast make it glow. I get the feeling of the sun hitting the animal . The triangles of warm yellows really make this painting work !
Honorable Mention : Rebecca W.
Oh those greens! Such a hard thing to do ! This artist has used cool and warm greens in a masterful way! Beautiful composition and painting.
Award of Merit : George S.
Whimsical, amusing and technically perfect. I definitely smile and feel an emotion when looking at this painting. The use of flying leaves, bugs and grass to give the movement is masterful !
Award of Merit : Susie S.
Very creative and interesting here we have an artist thinking outside the box!
I Love the complimentary colors and the design. “