2nd Annual Ellen Sussman-Eva Briggs
Memorial Abstract Art Competition

Monday, February 2, 2026 – Sunday, March 1, 2026

at the Community Performance and Art Center (CPAC)

We are honoring Eva Brigg’s request to paint in the “Square” and Ellen Sussman’s many years of love and support of abstract art in Green Valley.  We are bringing this abstract competition to the attention of all SRAL members, especially new members, who have toyed with the idea of trying something challenging and different.

Prospectuses (Description, Criteria, and Entry Form) are available in the Studio or Download Here.

Submissions can be in any medium: Acrylic, Watercolor, Oils, Pastel, Collage, and Mixed Media. All substrates (canvas, wood panel, paper or cradle board) must measure 12″ x 12″, 20″ x 20″, 24″ x 24″, 30″ x 30″, 36″ x  36″, or 48″ x 48″. The maximum dimensions of a framed piece shall not exceed more than 2″ above the substrate’s size. For example, for a 12″ x 12″ substrate, the frame should not exceed 14″ x 14″.  Each artist may enter two pieces.

Reception: Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: $40

Prizes: First Place – $500, Second Place – $300, Third Place – $200, plus three Honorable        Mentions – $50/each, and The People’s Choice Award – $100

Entry Deadline: Postmark no later than Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Judge:  Barbara Kuzara, Gallery 139, Tubac, AZ     www.kuzarastudio.com

Co-Chairs:     Hugh Beykirch            HughB@SantaRitaArt.Org

                           Nan Lux                      NanL@SantaRitaArt.org

Barbara Kuzara Artist Statement: My artwork is an interpretation of what has struck me, the” necessary”.  I have strived to create work that is not an image of what was in front of me, but rather how it made me feel or something I remember about the experience. What is “necessary” to me is translating that feeling or memory into something that will strike the viewer with soe emotion or memory of their own.  With abstract art, the content of the art isn’t there until the viewer puts it there through their interpretation of it.

There is a mystery which has been created with abstract art.  I find my best work is when I allow the piece, whether painting, monotype, or sculpture, to become what it is meant to be.

Prospectuses (Description, Criteria, and Entry Form) are available in the Studio or Download Here