Judge’s comments

First Place Patience Oakes, Kitty in the Sunshine
This is a painting of calmness, silence, and peace. What attracted me to this painting was its powerful emotion impact. The artist’s use of fluid and free watercolor washes contrasting the restraint of very careful delineated white paper makes the focal point powerfully presented. I especially like the rich color, especially in the deep purple/blues, creating depth and luxurious texture of the cat’s fur. This is a simple and beautiful composition.

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Second Place Hemal Solanki, Ancient Architecture
This painting has the skill and control that creates a great sense of mood and place. This artist’s use of cool and warm colors sets this building in bright sunlight and deep shadows which makes the eye fully explore the entire painting. What is masterful is the use of texture that speaks of old stone and mysterious doorways. The handling of the watercolor is assured and direct in creating the solidity of this ancient courtyard or entranceway.

 

Third Place Makarand Magare, Flying Kiss
This is a joyful painting and a painting of wonderful contrasts. The use of sharp focus and soft areas makes this baby orangutang really stand out, using the white paper sunlight to separate the subject from the background. Another masterful contrast is the warm orange fur against the cool green leaves. But beyond the technique is the delightful mood set with the paws and eyes, especially the eyes, creating a focal point that just delights.

 

Award of Merit Diane Martin, Greenhouse Door
There is a sense of mystery and charm with this direct elevation of a door to an old greenhouse. I like very much the contrast of surface textures: glass, plaster, and old wood, along with the contrast of cool and warm reflected light. There is a great sense of mystery and a feeling of wanting to know what’s behind this locked door.

 

Award of Merit In Son, Peacocks
This artist captures the grandeur of this peacock and peahen in all their brilliant colorful beauty. The brightness and depth of color are carefully rendered and is wonderfully contrasted to the soft background of skillfully handled washes. Wonderfully observed details.

 

Award of Merit Candace Cobb, Somewhere in Salem
This is a straightforward representation of a simple house and barns, but the feeling is one of subtly captured peace at sunset. The warmth of the sky (in a beautifully created graded wash) contrasts beautifully with the cool buildings and trees. Each element is painted with care and precision which adds to the unique feeling of loneliness.