2025 Members’ Annual Judged Exhibit
Saturday, March 1 – Monday, March 31, 2025
at the Canoa Hills Social Center
Judge’s Statement
“First of all, it was an honor for me to be asked to serve as the juror. I’m always inspired by other artists’ work, and I recognize the fact that everyone’s vision has value, since we are all so incredibly unique. There are no graduates in the art world. It’s a journey without a destination. We are all students. To me, the joy comes from moving along one’s own path, while discovering the gems that lie hidden in our own selves. If I had my way, I would give everyone an award, as I saw some beauty in every piece.
I would also like to acknowledge the notable endeavors of those artists who received Honorable Mention awards. I would like to share some brief thoughts about the first, second and third prizes in the two categories.
Finally thank you so much for letting me participate in this event.
Happy painting!” …David Simons
AWARD WINNERS
REPRESENTATIONAL
First Place: Prelude by Donalee Stuck
“A wonderful portrait and mood. A strong statement and beautifully composed. The figure is stunning as it emerges from the back.” David Simons
Second Place: Shades of Glory by Mary Oelschlaeger
“A lovely watercolor with all the elements that I think are important: light.” David Simons
Third Place: Keep Looking Up by Linda Patterson
“A beautiful interpretation of the beauty and rhythms of nature.” David Simons
Honorable Mention: Saguaro Slices by Valerie St. Marie
Honorable Mention: Untitled by Andy Savarese
Honorable Mention: So Long by Judy Lawrence
NON-REPRESENTATIONAL
First Place: Bone Mesa by Jeff Sartain
“This piece really resonated with me as it seems to show how the indigenous people consider our earth to be our mother. Pleasing and engaging to view. Great texture and construction.” David Simons
Second Place: Into the Blue by Rhonda Fisher
“This one in my view is a lovely statement about the beauty of life and its endless cycles. Done in a contemporary style, a long story all by itself. Well, done.” David Simons
Third Place: Passing Shadows by Colleen Eichenberger
“A soft and interesting arrangement of warm and cool greys. Conveys movement and stillness and a sense of peace.”
Honorable Mention: Lakota Life by Fran Sutherland
Honorable Mention: All That Jazz by Amy Pilger
Honorable Mention: Mindframe by Nan Lux