1st Place “Rockets Red Glare” by Leo Kahl
This exceptional painting has the WOW factor. The power of color, value and design work together beautifully, The brilliant red in this painting creates drama and compels me to explore color transitions throughout the painting. The strong and intense values in the sky and the trails of red rockets and bursts of light gives a sense of the heated battle on the open seas. It’s that intangible factor this artist has captured for us all.

2nd place “ Coming About” by Joan Judge
Each entry from this artist could have received an award. This artist has developed a unique style all their own that is rarely seen!
The application of paint, the texture, the harmonious color and the dramatic composition compels the viewer to see and feel the approaching storm

3rd place. “Ice Cream” by Christine Heyse
“Ice Cream” depicts the ultimate summer treat we all enjoy and this brought back memories of my childhood.
A good painting should have strong abstract design principles and this artist masters this skill.
Not only are the figures simplified but the background as well. The strong values against the hat draw me in and the white areas lead me through the group on the bench.
Clean and transparent colors, no fuss, good drawing skills, nice use of white paper and energetic and confident brushstrokes

Merit 1- “Resting Among Kindred Spirits” by Joan Coonce
This image is beautifully done. The pup cuddled on the chair among the pattern of dogs is excellently rendered. That melancholy look on the face tells me he is patiently waiting for his family to come home. The artist cleverly drew my eye directly to the dog’s face as it contrasts beautifully with the deep reddish background, and that grayish line leads directly to the top of his head. What a great story!

Merit 2 -“Autumn Flannel” by Frank Williams
The artists made many smart decisions in this composition. The two large shapes of the buildings provide a simple background for the white t-shirt and the red flannel blowing gently on the breeze. The window frames in red carry the eye to the opposite building and allows a peek of the landscape between the buildings.I also applaud the choice to add a glimpse of the interior and of the view beyond those windows

Merit 3-“ Contentment” by Ruth Ann Kaufman
This painting reminds me of the work by Matisse and Chagall. This artist has a very good handle on using Yupo paper. This is particularly done well with pattern and color. The title Contentment perfectly describes this painting. Three cats, cozy blankets, couple cuddled on the couch with glasses of wine and that cool blue room…I feel content just looking at it!