3rd Annual Ellen Sussman-Eva Briggs
Memorial Abstract Art Competition
Monday, February 1, 2027 – Monday, March 1, 2027
at the Community Performance and Art Center (CPAC)
2026 First Place Award: Chained Infinity by Hugh Beykirch
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.
Submissions can be in any medium: Acrylic, Watercolor, Oils, Pastel, Collage, and Mixed Media. The art pieces should measure on the outside edges from a 12” square up to 40” x 40” maximum in size and conform to the SRAL Criteria for Artwork.
Entry Deadline: Postmarked: January 20, 2027, by mail
Art Delivery: Monday, February 1, at 10 AM
Reception: Wednesday, February 7, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Awards: First Place: $500, Second Place: $300, Third Place: $200, 3 Honorable Mentions: $50, and People’s Choice: $100
Please join in this wonderful opportunity to express yourself in the creative genre of abstract art. Click here to please read and download the Prospectus for all the details.
Co-Chairs: Hugh L. Beykirch: hughb@santaritaart.org, Nan Lux: nanl@santaritaart.org
Judge: Victoria Thornton, who is an award-winning contemporary abstract artist whose work explores atmosphere, depth, and the emotional landscape through expressive layers, texture, and color. Working in layered mixed media, she creates paintings that encourage viewers to slow down, look a little longer, and discover something new each time they engage with the work.
Based in Southern Arizona, Victoria exhibits throughout the region and is represented by galleries in Tubac and Tucson. Her work has received multiple honors, including the Award of Merit and People’s Choice Award at the Tubac Center of the Arts.
As both an artist and educator, Victoria believes creativity is one of our most human qualities—a way of seeing, exploring, and expanding what’s possible. She is honored to serve as a judge for this exhibition and looks forward to celebrating the originality, vision, and unique artistic voices of each participating artist.
The Unknown