Richard Valentine
Attitude, oil painting

This painting exemplifies the exceptional use of painterly techniques. The heavy brush work reflects existing light to give the piece real vibrancy and action. The gesture of the figure with the use of background color creates a certain ambiguity as to what the title implies. It leaves the viewer questioning perceptions which, in turn, engages one to look further into the piece.

Tom Freund
Burst Of Autumn, Digital art

The Primavera Award is given by the Plymouth Arts Council Board members to an adult Plymouth artist.

Savannah Belcher
Conflict, Digital art

The Myrna Kaner Award is given by the Board members of the Plymouth Arts Council to a student artist. Myrna was a longtime Arts Council member and educator.    

Sara Biewen –
Lonely Man, Oil Painting 

This is a well-rendered oil painted portrait. There are very few readable brush strokes which implies there are many brush strokes. This is a fine example of this genre of painting. The title helps suggest some contemplation on the aging process.

Karen Lattery –
Patches, Watercolor

This is a well-executed watercolor study in black and white. It has a nice composition with a soft light source. Very simple, very nice.

Robert Weaver –
Box Elder Vessel, Wood Turning

This is an interesting choice of wood for this vessel in regards to the color and grain. The combination creates a nice variety to the surface on its strong form. Excellent craftsmanship.

Cynthia Fleury – Award Of Excellence
Old Boats Lake Superior, Photograph

This is excellent use of contemporary camera techniques. This photograph has a strong horizontal geometric composition. There is an eerie color and light created with post camera production that gives this piece a serene, surreal quality. Beautifully done.

Kaitlin Hackett –
Self Portrait, Collograph

This piece is a nice use of materials regarding the subject matter. The quiet, minimalist approach to this self portrait evokes the viewer to wonder why this young artist chooses to whisper about herself. Very nice, very mature for her age.

Laura Swartz –
Swirl Ring, Jewelry – Metalsmithing

This piece scored high in my criteria for the use of materials and technique. It is a good example of fine craft. I appreciate the combination of contemporary form with historical technique.

Gabby Temple –
Gabby’s Cast, Jewelry – Metalsmithing

Good craftsmanship. This piece shows a nice balance between geometric forms and styles. There is a real sense of unity between the contemporary box ring and the traditional bezel set stone.

Francesca Bernardi –
Mother & Child, Charcoal and Pastel

This is an evocative, expressionistic composition regarding relevant issues of her age. What I find most compelling about this piece is the fact that the Mother is both headless and one-handed, surrounded by a heavy line that “boxes in” the subject. Very nice statement.

Gregory Orange –
Self Portrait, Oil on canvas

This is a large, bold painting. There is a certain intensity of the young artist looking at himself in the mirror. This intensity is reinforced by the bold brushwork and a strong light source, creating good contrast between light and shadow.

Sarah Porter –
Air Currents, Digital photograph

This piece is a fine example of contemporary camera techniques used for self expression. It is a good use of color and composition to create a feeling of isolation and energy.