BEAUX ARTS XLIX - JUDGE’S COMMENTS

BEST OF SHOW - #38 - “Fresh Ground” - Linda Knight - The impact is strong, and the use of materials is consistent and thoughtful. The extruded paint is effective and well-composed, and there is a vision here. The work stops short of being heavy-handed.

FIRST PLACE - #48 - “Alternate Vision” - Rainey Dimmitt - This work has a real mood and a contemporary take on expressionistic painting. The dominance of yellow and gray is effective, and there is strong evidence of a legitimate personal vision.

SECOND PLACE - #29 - “The Navajo” - Sue Reynolds - The variety of paint handling and effects provide interest and visual richness. The interplay of opacity and translucence is quite accomplished.

THIRD PLACE - #43 - “Contemplation” - Gretchen Nass - I was drawn to the physical nature of the paint. The artist exploits fluidity and the tendency of the pigment to collect and form areas of emphasis.

ACHIEVEMENT - #10 - “Out of Being” - Mara Whitridge - While seemingly modest in scale, this sculpture is quite sophisticated. It brings to mind Richard Tuttle and Frank Stella. Very good use of materials.

ACHIEVEMENT - #21 - “Self-Portrait as One of Picasso’s Three Musicians” - Rose Ann Samuelson - There is a compelling aspect to the portrait head - a psychological interest. One wonders about the artist’s relationship to Picasso - resignation, homage, or both?

MERIT - #58 - “Ring of Fire” - Connie Krzyzowski - The organic shapes that dominate are interesting and sculptural. The color is sumptuous and well-controlled. The artist has shown sufficient restraint to keep it from being “over the top”.

MERIT - #56 - “Florida Round Dance” - Betty Parker - There is good control of the compositional area. The various approaches work well together, with effective interplay between black and white, and color.

HONORABLE MENTION - #52 - “Tree Series” - Marylee Voegele - This work evokes both traditional Chinese landscape painting and the sublime texture-scape of artists like Richard Pousette Dart. The use of the limited palette is impressive.

HONORABLE MENTION - #6 - “Central Park” - Jean Banas - The scale works well with the energetic brushwork, with many flashes of brilliance.