Nassau Valley Vineyard and Winery 2025
Juror’s Statement from Ryan Fox,
When judging a show, I look for that immediate “wow” factor-something that captures my attention right away. This might come from a striking composition, an inventive use of color, technical excellence, or a compelling combination of these elements. If a painting makes me pause and wonder, what is the artist trying to express, and how effectively have they communicated it?, it has a strong chance of winning an award. The award-winning works stood out for their originality, emotional resonance, and ability to draw me back for repeated viewings. I selected 11 paintings to receive awards and I’m unlimited to six!
First Place-‘Party Crashers” by Leo Kahl (sponsored by C. Mercedes Walls)
Second Place-“Stillwater” by Isabel Pizzalato (sponsored by Marjorie Wuestner in appreciation of working with an exemplary DWS Board of Directors-Brad Hastings, Charlotte Hughes, Pat Hoey, Wendy Leddy,
Kath Cropper, Melissa McLean and Isabel Pizzalato)
Third Place –“Odd Man Out” by Ellen Lawler
Honorable Mentions: Leslie Lesko for “Best Friends”
Christine Heyse for “Harbor Morning”
Marjorie Wuestner for “Chaos and Wonder”
